AL24 News
| Company type | State media |
|---|---|
| Industry | Broadcasting |
| Founded | November 1, 2021 |
| Founder | Ammar Belhimer |
| Headquarters | Algiers , Algeria |
Area served | International |
Key people | Salim Aggar (director-general) |
| Products | News broadcasting in Arabic, French, and English |
| Owner | Government of Algeria |
AL24 News is an international news broadcaster from Algeria, delivering content in Arabic, French, and English since its inception on 1 November 2021.
History
The idea for the channel originated with then-Minister of Communication Ammar Belhimer, who envisioned it as a means to enhance Algeria's soft power on the global stage. Belhimer emphasized that this initiative was a significant element within President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's strategic agenda.
The channel's official inauguration took place on 30 October 2021, coinciding with the 67th commemoration of the Algerian War. Broadcasting commenced at midnight (WAT) on 1 November 2021. Salim Aggar, previously head of the Algerian Cinematheque, was appointed as the first director-general.
On 7 December 2023, AL24 News entered into a partnership agreement with Russian broadcaster RT Arabic to facilitate information sharing, exchange audiovisual materials, and cooperate in television production.
Content
As reported by the state-controlled Algeria Press Service, AL24 News is designed to amplify "Algeria's visibility within the international media landscape and reinforce its stance on regional and global issues." The channel’s programming distribution officially consists of 60% Arabic, 35% French, and 5% English content.
Its schedule features continuous news coverage, panel discussions, interview programs, documentaries, and specialized magazine shows.
Reception
A review conducted by Jeune Afrique in July 2022 characterized AL24 News's performance as "mixed," pointing out that it "has not succeeded in offering content that markedly differs from many other private or state-run broadcasters." Despite having amassed approximately 500,000 subscribers and over 300,000 Facebook followers, the channel has encountered challenges in securing broad viewership within Algeria.
Moroccan pro-government media outlets have criticized AL24 News due to its association with the Algerian government.