How can the truth survive? In Africa journalists are often caught between the battle lines

Genocide being committed against a civilian population in Darfur. Rebel groups and warlords waging war against the government in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria. Human rights activists finding their resources strained in places like Chad and Angola. Governments in Niger and Guinea-Bissau clamping down on independent media coverage during times of conflict.

Out of the ashes of war many African countries are trying to build a free and democratic future. With an illiterate population and intermittent electricity and Internet access, radio remains the number one medium for news and information throughout the continent. But too often these vital broadcasts are dominated by state media or other interest groups with political objectives.

How can people living under these circumstances be provided with independent and credible news and information? How can extremist radio broadcasts like those which served to fan the flames of hatred in Rwanda and the Ivory Coast be prevented or stopped? What type of role can and should independent media play in the future of Africa?

Impressions