By Hannah Dadzie
A veteran Egyptian journalist and member of the Union of African Journalists’ Technical Secretariat, Mr. Ezzat Ibrahim, has called on African media outlets to challenge the dominant Western narratives that often perpetuate negative stereotypes about Africa.
Speaking at the 59th Young African Journalists Workshop in Cairo, Mr. Ibrahim criticized the Western media’s portrayal of Africa as a continent plagued by conflict, poverty, and instability. He argued that these narratives are biased and fail to capture the continent’s rich diversity and resilience.
“The Western mass media controls the international stage,” Mr. Ibrahim lamented. “The Western media has a long history of controlling the narrative about Africa. Creating negative stereotypes about Africa hinders the continent’s growth. The presentation of the continent as perpetually poor suggests that there are no solutions.”
Citing the Israel-Gaza war as an example, Mr. Ibrahim emphasized the need for media outlets, especially Western ones, to strive for a more balanced and informed perspective that reflects the complex realities on the ground.
He asserted that it is time for African media to take charge and tell their own stories. He highlighted the importance of diversifying news sources and challenging the stereotypes that have been prevalent for decades.
“Egypt and other African countries have a role to play in building relationships that contribute to the continent’s growth,” he added.
Mr. Ibrahim called on African journalists to explore alternative perspectives and seek out stories that highlight the continent’s progress and achievements.
We need to change the narrative, we need to show the world that Africa is not just a continent of problems, but a land of opportunities and innovation.” He indicated
Expressing concern that 81% of stories about Africa are related to conflict, 13% to violence and turmoil, and only 6% to positive narratives, Mr. Ibrahim urged African journalists to review and revise their coverage.
“There must be a diversity of stories, and we must challenge stereotypes,” he said.
Many African countries are making significant strides in areas such as technology, education, and healthcare. As the African media landscape continues to evolve, it is hoped that this will inspire journalists to challenge the status quo and tell the true story of Africa.
The 59th Young African Journalists Workshop, an annual event, provides African journalists with the opportunity to build their capacities, acquire new skills in diverse areas, network, and share ideas on how best to tell the African story.
