African Media Criticised for Weak Geopolitical Coverage
Professor Kwame Karikari has criticized African media for lacking in-depth coverage of geopolitical events affecting the continent. He stated that many media outlets depend too heavily on international news agencies like CNN and BBC for regional information. This reliance, he argued, hinders Africa's ability to shape its own narrative on the global stage. The International Desk of the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD) organized a workshop in Accra where these concerns were discussed.
African media outlets are reportedly weak in covering crucial geopolitical issues affecting the continent. Professor Kwame Karikari, formerly of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), voiced these concerns. He noted that many news organisations remain too focused on local matters. They often rely on international news networks like CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera for information about Africa's own regions.
This dependence on external sources is seen as harmful to Africa's global narrative. Professor Karikari spoke at a workshop in Accra organised by the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD). The event focused on improving media understanding of foreign influence and geopolitics in West Africa and the Sahel. It brought together journalists from across West Africa and other African nations.
Global geopolitical shifts and foreign interference pose significant threats to African nations. However, the continent's media has not adequately responded to these challenges. Professor Karikari described Africa's current stance as one of "inexplicable silence, lethargy, and aloofness." He pointed out that there is no unified, confident African voice speaking for the continent on the world stage. He also commented on political leaders who seem content within their narrow national boundaries.
Karikari urged African media to encourage political leaders to engage more actively with continental and sub-regional bodies. The media should also promote reliable knowledge about African affairs. Strengthening solidarity and guarding national sovereignty against external threats are key responsibilities. Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh of CDD mentioned that his organisation has worked for years to promote democracy in West Africa.
Since 2019, CDD has expanded its reach across Africa. They established an International Desk to monitor geopolitical developments impacting regional security and peace. The weak coverage means that African citizens may not fully understand the complex global forces shaping their future. This gap can weaken the continent's ability to respond strategically to opportunities and challenges.
The implications of this weak coverage are far-reaching. It contributes to a lack of informed public debate on critical international issues impacting Ghana and other African countries. Policymakers and citizens alike may miss vital information needed for strategic decision-making. Without robust, independent African analysis, external narratives can dominate discussions about the continent.
Source: StatsGH — Ghana's data-driven news platform