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'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, has called on African financial institutions to support the emergence of a globally respected African media company that will position the news of Africa to the world.
Speaking during the media leaders’ summit convened by AllAfrica Media in Kenya, Adesina said “Africa must shape its own narrative, and not depend on what others think about it or the perspectives they prefer to share about it, its achievements, and opportunities.
“Positive stories of African investment opportunities need to be well showcased, as they unfortunately do not get sufficient coverage, if any at all, in western media.
The Bank Group president said there were many positive developments in Africa yet the continent continues to suffer misrepresentations which undermine its economic progress and investment potential.
“Despite the significant progress within our continent, the prevailing media narrative often focuses on negative stereotypes, overlooking the substantial advancements and resilience Africa demonstrates,” he added.
Adesina said there was plenty of positive news to report about and highlighted the continent’s economic resilience regional and amid global challenges. He said that in 2023, Africa’s growth rate surpassed the global average, with 11 African nations ranked among the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Adesina referenced a 2021 Africa No Filter Report, which revealed significant adherence to outdated and negative clichés in media reports about Africa. “It’s time for change,” he declared.
“We must reshape the narrative about Africa to reflect its true spirit and potential.”
