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Decolonising Political Communication in Africa: Dismantling Colonial Structures for Authentic Expression

Tim Reed

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Published in Decolonising Political Communication In Africa: Reframing Ontologies (Routledge Contemporary Africa)

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Decolonising Political Communication in Africa: Reframing Ontologies (Routledge Contemporary Africa)

by Donald T. Critchlow

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3855 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	254 pages

Abstract

Political communication in Africa has been profoundly shaped by colonialism, with its enduring legacy continuing to influence how political messages are constructed, disseminated, and received. This article examines the urgent need for decolonisation in political communication in Africa, arguing that it is essential for promoting authentic and inclusive communication that reflects the aspirations and experiences of African people. The article explores the historical roots of colonial communication, its negative effects on African societies, and empowering strategies for decolonising political communication.

Communication is a fundamental aspect of human society, and it plays a particularly crucial role in the political sphere. Through communication, political leaders convey their messages, engage with citizens, and shape public opinion. In Africa, political communication has been deeply influenced by colonialism, which has left a lasting legacy on the way that political messages are constructed, disseminated, and received.

Colonialism was a system of domination and exploitation that imposed foreign values, languages, and institutions on African societies. This had a profound impact on African political communication, which was forced to adapt to the needs of the colonial powers. As a result, African political communication became characterised by a number of features that reflected the colonial mindset, including:

* A focus on European languages and cultural norms * The use of propaganda and other forms of manipulation * The suppression of African voices and perspectives

These features of colonial communication have had a negative impact on African societies. They have led to a lack of trust in political communication, a sense of alienation among African citizens, and a perpetuation of colonial power structures.

The Need for Decolonisation

In order to address the negative effects of colonial communication, it is essential to decolonise political communication in Africa. Decolonisation is a process of dismantling colonial structures and institutions and restoring power to the people. It involves challenging Eurocentric assumptions, promoting African languages and cultures, and empowering African voices.

Decolonising political communication in Africa is a complex and challenging task, but it is essential for the continent's future. It is a necessary step towards creating a more just and equitable society, one in which all African voices are heard and respected.

Strategies for Decolonisation

There are a number of strategies that can be employed to decolonise political communication in Africa. These include:

* Promoting African languages and cultures in political discourse * Encouraging the use of indigenous knowledge systems in political decision-making * Supporting independent African media outlets * Training African journalists and communicators in decolonial approaches * Establishing dialogue and collaboration between African scholars and activists working on decolonisation

These strategies are essential for creating a more inclusive and representative political communication landscape in Africa. They will help to empower African voices, challenge Eurocentric assumptions, and promote a more authentic and relevant political discourse.

Decolonising political communication in Africa is a vital step towards creating a more just and equitable society. By challenging colonial structures and promoting African voices, we can create a political communication landscape that is truly representative of the continent's people and aspirations.

A Group Of People Listening To A Speaker At A Political Rally In Africa Decolonising Political Communication In Africa: Reframing Ontologies (Routledge Contemporary Africa)

References

* [1] Nyamnjoh, Francis B. (2012). Decolonising the African mind: The politics of language and knowledge in the postcolony. Edinburgh University Press. * [2] Ndlovu-Gatsheni, Sabelo J. (2013). Epistemic freedom in Africa: Deprovincializing knowledge and power. Routledge. * [3] Mbembe, Achille (2016). Decolonizing knowledge and the question of the archive. Routledge.

Decolonising Political Communication in Africa: Reframing Ontologies (Routledge Contemporary Africa)

by Donald T. Critchlow

5 out of 5