The Inconvenient Truth with Douglas BOATENG (Prof): Honouring resilience and tackling injustice via African media
Across Africa’s lively and ever-changing scene, journalism carries significant weight. Beyond just sharing information, it crafts how society views itself, molds new eras of thinkers, and impacts upcoming aspirations.
However, within this influential role lies an inconvenient truth: a significant portion of African journalism, particularly its investigative segment, has become heavily biased toward negative narratives, often overlooking the positive aspects.
As an unapologetic modern-day Pan-Africanist and social entrepreneur deeply invested in the continent’s long-term development, I recognise the critical role of investigative journalism. It unmasks corruption, uncovers injustice, and holds power accountable.
These are noble functions that cannot be discounted. But I also observe a painful gap. Why is so little attention given to the stories of hope, progress, and people and communities striving against odds and succeeding? Why is the good so often ignored or buried beneath layers of sensational negativity?
Investigative journalism serves as the beacon that uncovers corruption and unfairness. However, should this light fail to illuminate tales of hope, resilience, innovation, and ethical strength, we might inadvertently portray an inaccurate and disheartening image of our communities.
If journalism focuses solely on disaster and misconduct, it gradually erodes the social fabric instead of repairing it.
In today’s digital era, when impressionable youths are bombarded with stories of deterioration, it comes as no surprise that numerous individuals begin to doubt the efficacy of the established systems.
Frequently, the media molds the aspirations of upcoming generations. When it highlights solely what is damaged, it unintentionally conveys that nothing can be mended. However, at its best, journalism serves as more than just a reflection; it acts as a guide. It should depict our current state and illuminate potential paths forward.
Throughout history, some journalists have embodied this dual role with profound integrity. Take Allister Sparks, whose brave reporting during apartheid South Africa uncovered deep injustices but also spotlighted the enduring spirit of those who resisted.
Sparks used truth as a scalpel, aiming not only to dissect but also to mend. He demonstrated that journalism has the capacity to challenge authority while simultaneously elevating the human spirit.
Elizabeth Ohene stands as another monumental personality. During Ghana’s tumultuous periods, her courageous journalism offered incisive criticism alongside clear-headed analysis.
In her columns and commentaries, she transcended the role of just being a journalist; she emerged as a public educator. The voice of a nation’s moral compass. Her contributions underscore that journalism goes beyond breaking news to encompass cultural legacy.
Kwaku Sakyi Addo also made storytelling resonate deeply. By addressing intricate topics with cultural awareness and lyrical cadence, his approach demonstrated how journalism can leave an indelible mark on people’s minds. Rather than merely reporting facts, he conveyed real-life events in a way that resonated profoundly. This kind of journalism both enlightens and strengthens communities.
Worldwide, some individuals distinguish themselves. Bob Woodward’s renowned investigation into the Watergate scandal did more than just unsettle the U.S. political elite; it also reinforced trust in journalism as an essential component of democratic society.
During World War II, Edward R. Murrow’s reports weren't just informative; they fueled bravery. Similarly, Ruth Weiss demonstrated through her strong dedication to documenting the challenges faced in Southern Africa that journalism has the power to serve as an instrument for advocacy and historic documentation.
These names hold significance not because they were flawless, but because they wielded their pens to sow seeds rather than merely reveal weeds.
And herein lies another inconvenient truth: In Africa, many of our journalists have the talent, the reach, and the credibility to shift narratives.
But too many are caged by editorial policies, political fears, or market pressures that feed only on the salacious and the scandalous. We cannot build a hopeful continent on a steady diet of doom.
Yet, I must also acknowledge the positive journalism that has quietly inspired me and countless others.
As a practising engineer and researcher in industrial and value chain governance, I remember reading stories about innovation in Kenya’s tech space, rising solar microgrids in Rwanda, and local health heroes transforming villages in northern Ghana.
These may not have been major headlines, yet they sparked something inside me. They offered evidence that transformation was achievable and that advancement wasn’t just an import from the West but a native entitlement.
A distinct role exists within nation-building for what some refer to as "affirmative investigative journalism." This form of reporting is neither public relations nor unchecked praise. Instead, it involves presenting truths responsibly.
This involves examining both why a policy did not work and how an alternative method was successful. It entails uncovering not just leaders who plundered but also those public officials who achieved their goals despite immense challenges.
As the renowned Ghanaian journalist Cameron Duodu once stated, "The pen may be mightier than the sword, but only if it pens the truth with intent." African journalism requires this change, not in morals but in focus.
Our narratives extend beyond accounts of colonization, corruption, and coups; they also encompass tales of bravery, cultural richness, and resilient communities striving to improve every day.
As journalism fosters the sprout of optimism, it raises a cohort of visionaries, achievers, and changemakers. Incorporating data-centric journalism within African media has notably enhanced the thoroughness and influence of coverage throughout the region.
Through the use of data analysis and visualization techniques, reporters have managed to reveal concealed trends, unveil dishonest practices, and enhance the precision of their contributions to public debate.
The Gupta Leaks investigation in South Africa showcased the strength of data-driven journalism. Collaborating with investigative reporters, data analysts scrutinized leaked email contents, uncovering substantial instances of state capture and corruption linked to both the Gupta family and government figures. This methodology yielded compelling proof that ignited public outrage and prompted legal measures.
The African Women Journalism Project (AWJP), led by women, conducted an investigation into COVID-19 expenditures in Kenya, Uganda, and Nigeria. Their findings revealed misuse of healthcare funds, leading to demands for greater transparency and accountability.
Africa Uncensored, a Kenyan investigative journalism group, employed data-driven reporting techniques for significant initiatives. In their film "The Profiteers," they explored how funds moved from the South Sudanese government into banking accounts in Nairobi, uncovering financial systems that exacerbated conflicts. This endeavor shed light on intricate corruption patterns via thorough financial data examination and graphical representation of information.
These instances highlight the profound impact of data journalism in Africa. Through the use of data, reporters reveal facts, cultivate an enlightened public, and encourage transparency. With ongoing advancements in data-driven reporting, there is significant potential for enhancing democratic practices and fostering social progress throughout the region.
The future of journalism in Africa relies on our shared dedication; this includes journalists, citizens, policymakers, and media organizations equally.
We should promote and honor individuals who courageously share complete narratives. It’s essential to back channels that highlight African achievements and community fortitude. Additionally, we ought to teach young people to look past the turmoil and discover the insight lurking at the edges of understanding.
For the media community, this statement doesn’t serve as criticism. Instead, it acts as a summons—a clear and urgent one. A reminder to blend censure with commendation. Ensuring that when the watchdog raises an alert, they simultaneously indicate refuge. Because journalism devoid of inspiration eventually fades away.
Let us remember that storytelling shapes nations. It creates legacies. Journalists act as custodians of a country’s memories. If they neglect to honor the positive aspects, they obscure the beacon lighting our way forward.
Let journalism be our mirror and our map. It should reflect who we are while revealing the incredible possibilities of what we can become. Now is the time for Africa’s media to redefine its legacy not by turning away from the truth, but by broadening it.
Let us recount our tales of hardship, yet ensure that narratives of our strength echo equally loud. Within this equilibrium, countries discover their true essence. Allow the concluding message to embody not merely despondency, but also optimism, self-worth, and purpose.
>>The author is an internationally renowned thinker, Chartered Director, industrial engineer, specialist in supply chain management, and social entrepreneur recognized for their groundbreaking work in fostering industrialization, procurement, and strategic sourcing within developing countries.
As the inaugural Professor Extraordinary in Supply Chain Governance and Industrialization in Africa, he has provided guidance to governments, corporations, and policy makers, fostering sustainable development and progress. While serving as the Chairperson of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) and Labadi Beach Hotel, he steered these organizations toward international acclaim for their innovative approaches and superior operations. Additionally, he previously held the position of chair at the Public Procurement Authority.
A prolific author of over 90 publications, he is the creator of\xa0NyansaKasa\xa0(Words of Wisdom), a thought-provoking platform with over one million daily readers. Through his visionary leadership, Professor Boateng continues to inspire ethical governance, innovation, and youth empowerment, driving Africa toward a sustainable and inclusive future.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
