Türkiye-Africa media forum held in Istanbul

The Turkish Communications Directorate organized the Türkiye-Africa Media Forum in Istanbul Friday with speeches from Gregoire Ndjaka, CEO of the African Union of Broadcasting, Walid Ammar Ellafi, Libya's minister of communication and political affairs for the Government of National Unity minister and Fahrettin Altun, Turkish Communications Director.

Experts highlighted Türkiye's distinct approach to Africa, countering negative global media narratives with a more humane perspective.

Tunc Demirtas, foreign policy directorate of the Ankara-based Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research (SETA), emphasized the progress in Türkiye-Africa media relations, advocating for a shift in Africa's global portrayal beyond crisis and poverty through Türkiye's "win-win" policy.

- Ankara's role in Africa 'significant'

TRT Africa news producer Gladys Njoroge highlighted Türkiye's role.

"We don't just focus on war and poverty. People seek partners in capital, knowledge, and resources, and Türkiye's role is highly significant," she said. "Now, both Turkish and African journalists can share Africa's story. Through our broadcasts, we convey real information instead of traditional narratives."

"Africans see and remember how they are treated," she said. "Türkiye's message has been: 'We are not coming as a colonial power, but as a partner,' fostering a give-and-take dynamic."

El Moustapha El Bou from Al Jadeed News emphasized Ankara's "development-focused approach" to Africa, extending beyond media to economy, politics and culture.

He contrasted it with the "condescending and humiliating" Western narrative.

"They depict Africa as weak and incapable, following Western directives," he said.

- Türkiye's expertise in media

Jilali Benhalymah, director of Al-Ahdath Al-Maghribia, emphasized the deep-rooted economic and cultural ties between Türkiye and North Africa.

Criticizing Western media's approach to Africa, he stated: "Unlike the West, Türkiye views Africa from a much more humane perspective in media as well. In recent years, Türkiye has pursued a strong communication policy in the region,"

He also stated: "We seek Türkiye's expertise in media" and suggested sending a Turkish media delegation to Morocco and organizing mutual training programs.

Anadolu's Africa News Director Gokhan Kavak highlighted Africa's news potential, noting: "China and Russia, alongside the BBC and AFP, are building close media ties with African countries."

Despite limited "electricity and satellite access," he added that smartphones and the internet are connecting youth in Burkina Faso, Ethiopia and Zimbabwe to the world.