THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF), in partnership with Nyima’s Bantaba Media Platform, is spotlighting changemakers who are transforming narratives and reshaping Africa’s future. As part of a series of interview publications (VOD & Podcast), four innovators across East and Southern Africa who are not only talking about change but building it from the ground up are spotlighted.
When Europe debates migration, Africa is too often reduced to a continent of people desperate to leave. This is a myth. The vast majority of Africans do not aspire to flee; they want to build their futures at home. What they are calling for is genuine partnership, one that values innovation, entrepreneurship and mutual respect. If Germany and Europe truly wish to be seen as partners rather than gatekeepers, they must engage Africa on this basis.
This is not simply about curbing irregular migration. It is about offering a credible alternative to China’s growing influence by recognising Africa as a hub of resilience, creativity and economic vitality. The New Image of Africa initiative underscores precisely this: a continent of changemakers in fintech, clean energy and e-commerce who are reshaping global narratives.
Africa is not waiting for aid; it is calling for cooperation. As Inge Herbert, Regional Director of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom in sub-Saharan Africa, emphasises: “Internationalism, not isolation, is the path to shared prosperity. When Africa and Europe deepen their economic interdependence, both continents gain. Africa through investment and innovation, and Europe through new markets and partnerships. A relationship built on cooperation, not competition, creates prosperity that crosses borders.”
Beyond the Myths: A New Image of Africa
The New Image of Africa is more than a broadcast series. It champions resilience, innovation and economic dynamism, while dismantling outdated stereotypes that portray Africa solely as the “aid continent”. By highlighting the work of young entrepreneurs, it reframes Africa as a continent reshaping its own future through innovation and creativity.
A Three-Part Interview Series
In partnership with Nyima’s Bantaba Media Platform, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom has produced a three-part vodcast and podcast series showcasing vibrant innovations in fintech, clean energy and e-commerce.
Due to broadcast on Berlin’s public channel Alex Berlin Offener Kanal in October and November, the series features in-depth conversations with four influential African entrepreneurs. Their stories highlight the continent’s entrepreneurial spirit and groundbreaking innovation, challenging outdated perceptions and positioning Africa as a global hub of economic transformation.
From pioneers in financial wellness to creative visionaries using artificial intelligence in beauty and clean energy, these changemakers are redefining Africa’s image from within. Their journeys illustrate a dynamic economy bursting with growth in technology, manufacturing and services, painting a picture of Africa as a global epicentre of innovation and progress.
Redefining Narratives
The New Image of Africa also shines a light on the continent’s commitment to sustainability. It explores renewable energy initiatives, ambitious infrastructure projects and innovative responses to technological and financial challenges. But beyond economics, the series celebrates Africa’s cultural wealth, its artistic expression, creative industries and traditional expertise, showcasing a continent of diversity, depth and potential.
Ultimately, the project presents a confident new narrative: Africa as a continent brimming with opportunity, calling for global partners and investors to collaborate in its journey of growth and development. It empowers young Africans to act as ambassadors of change, countering outdated perceptions and shaping a future defined by resilience, creativity and cooperation.
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