Dr. Unwana Samuel Akpan, a prominent Afrocentric communication and media scholar from the University of Lagos, has called for a global reassessment of communication paradigms to elevate Africa’s rich indigenous communication systems.
In an exclusive interview with Daily Sun, Dr. Akpan stressed the vital role that traditional African communication systems once played in society. These systems, he noted, were central to governance, cultural preservation, and community unity.
“Indigenous African communication and media systems are not just relics of the past; they are the threads that wove together the fabric of African communities,” he said.
He elaborated on how these systems historically conveyed information, shared stories, and passed down cultural knowledge. “Unlike the individualistic approach of the West, African systems emphasised community, oral traditions, and a holistic view of life,” he added.
Dr. Akpan, who has published numerous works in prestigious international journals, expressed deep concern over the concept of “epistemicide,” which he described as the systematic erasure of indigenous knowledge systems in favor of Western frameworks. He warned that this erasure has led to a distorted understanding of African cultures and a diminishing appreciation for the continent’s rich heritage.
He highlighted the diversity of these communication systems, ranging from the griot traditions of West Africa to the communal storytelling practices of East Africa and the symbolic use of drums in Southern Africa. “These systems were not monolithic; they were as diverse as the cultures they served, each uniquely suited to its environment and community needs,” he said.
However, Dr. Akpan cautioned that these traditional systems are increasingly at risk of being marginalized in the face of globalization and the rapid spread of digital technology.
To counter this trend, Dr. Akpan proposed a multi-faceted strategy to preserve and promote indigenous communication practices. His recommendations include documenting these systems, incorporating them into educational curricula, and using modern technologies to keep them relevant.
“Imagine the possibilities if we could merge these ancient systems with today’s digital platforms, mobile applications, and even virtual reality,” Dr. Akpan suggested.
“By doing so, we could not only preserve these traditions but also make them relevant to younger generations, blending the old with the new to create a dynamic form of communication that honors our past while embracing the future.”
He also urged policymakers to prioritize cultural preservation and invest in initiatives that support the revival of indigenous communication systems. He called on NGOs, educational institutions, and media organizations to take an active role in raising awareness and developing programs that empower communities to reclaim and revitalize their traditional communication methods.
“By making indigenous communication systems a core part of education, we can instill a sense of pride and ownership among young people,” he stated.
“This will ensure that future generations not only appreciate these systems but also see them as valuable tools for expression, connection, and identity.”
Experts agree that Dr. Akpan’s call to action is a timely reminder of the need to preserve Africa’s cultural heritage. As the continent grapples with the challenges of modernity, there is an urgent need to reclaim and celebrate the indigenous knowledge systems that have sustained its communities for centuries. By doing so, Africa can ensure its rich traditions continue to thrive in the digital age.
Source: Daily Sun
