FADP: 96 applications filed by community radio stations, none by print media

The Press Support and Development Fund (FADP) has received 96 applications from community and non-profit radio stations under the procedure launched on 29 July 2026. At this stage, no applications have been recorded from print media or television stations, according to figures released by the fund’s Management Board on 31 August.

Online media account for nine applications, while two commercial radio stations have submitted requests. The procedure is entering its final stage, with online platform submissions and physical filings still possible until 15 September 2026.

Administrative documents considered difficult to obtain

Media executives say they are facing difficulties in gathering all the required documents. Tax clearance certificates and proof of contributions to IPRES are among the documents cited as the most difficult to obtain.

Authorities have set stricter eligibility criteria than those applied under the former APR administration, according to the information reported. At that time, media outlets could submit their applications with the documents available, with the level of aid subsequently varying according to the requirements met.

A scheme already challenged

The procedure comes amid challenges to press support mechanisms. FACS had notably denounced unequal treatment among media outlets during a previous phase of physical submissions, criticising a timetable it considered unsuitable and too short.

On 8 April 2026, CDEPS, for its part, described the 2025 FADP allocation as unfair and illegal. The organisation also denounced the blocking of the subsidy intended for press outlets for 2024 and announced that it intended to refer the matter to OFNAC and the courts following the allocation of a 39 million CFA franc subsidy, alleging misappropriation of public funds and failure to comply with allocation rules.

Support announced before the deadline

The FADP Management Board is calling on the companies concerned to speed up their procedures. It has announced technical assistance to support the preparation and completion of applications before the closing date.

The fund aims to support the development, modernisation and resilience of national press stakeholders. Some media executives nevertheless believe that administrative requirements are holding back part of the print media, online media and television sectors. Other companies have closed or chosen not to apply for government aid schemes.