Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has called on African governments, policymakers, and media professionals to leverage the transformative power of digitalisation and broadcasting to unite the continent, amplify African voices, and strengthen democratic accountability.
Speaking at the Africa Media Bureau’s forum on “Broadcasting at the Crossroads”, he noted that while Pan-Africanism has been a rallying ideal for over six decades, its promise has not fully translated into the daily lives of ordinary Africans.
He argued that digital technologies and modern media platforms now offer Africa a practical pathway to achieving continental unity and empowering citizens.
“Digitalisation is such that not even the most powerful governments anywhere can resist its impact on the lives of people,”
“If African media and professionals succeed in using these technologies to make Africa borderless, our people will come to know themselves better, hold their governments accountable, and demand governance that truly meets the public’s needs,” he said.
Former President Kufuor pointed out that although Africa boasts vibrant populations and fast-growing digital penetration, much of the continent’s media infrastructure and platforms remain externally driven.
This, he warned, risks Africa being continually “defined from outside” rather than controlling its own narrative. He urged media professionals to establish strong African-owned platforms that can tell the continent’s economic, social, cultural, and political stories authentically.
Comparing Africa’s media reach with global giants such as Al Jazeera and CNN, the former President emphasised the need for African broadcasters to think big, form partnerships, and create a continental hub for information and storytelling.
“If others can achieve global reach from smaller bases, Africa has no excuse,” he said.
He also called for deliberate public-private partnerships to drive the sector, stressing that governments must create enabling policies and infrastructure, while private actors bring innovation and professional expertise.
“Policy should be shaped to empower media professionals to reach out and bring Pan-Africanism down to the grassroots,” he said.
He further highlighted the role of media in citizen education, describing it as the “fastest instrument to awaken people.”
With mobile technology already widespread across Africa, he said digital media can transform even rural communities by enhancing access to information, fostering responsible citizenship, and ensuring accountable governance.
“The time has come for Africa to awaken itself through media and technology.”
If we seize this opportunity, within a decade or two, we can build an informed, united, and prosperous continent driven by its own narratives and talents,” he said.
