INTERNET IS DRIVING NEWS CONSUMPTION IN WEST AFRICA

 DELA AHIAWOR, Ghanaian journalist, Editor, (delreport.com) is one journalist whose journalism work has taken him outside Ghana’s territory and other continents apart from Africa. He is the West Africa Bureau Editor of CAJ International Magazine. Ahiawor is also CAJ Vice President West Africa Region. In this Q&A, he shares insights on his journalism career, role at CAJ and relevant issues. Excerpts:
‎
‎
‎1.  What inspired you to pursue a career in journalism, and how has your experience been?
‎
‎Actually, the desire to explore new horizons (places) inspired my journalism career in the early 2000s. Now, the world no longer feels like a mystery to me, because I have realized my travel goals, thanks to journalism .
‎
‎2.  As Editor of (delreport.com), what’s your approach to storytelling and engaging your audience?
‎
‎As sustainability editor at (delreport.com)

‎I’m keen on crafting a narrative that is well researched and connects with my  readers, the reason being that sustainability still remains an abstract topic for most people, especially in our part of the world.
‎
‎3.  How do you see the media landscape evolving in West Africa, and how is (delreport.com) adapting?
‎
‎In West Africa internet access, particularly via smartphones, is driving news consumption. For this reason I regularly share my work (articles) on Social media platforms like: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and TikTok to improve  engagement, especially among youth.
‎
‎4.  What led you to take on leadership role at the Congress of African Journalists (CAJ), and what’s your vision for the organization?
‎
‎I was drawn to the opportunity to work with diverse journalists/ media professionals across the continent. And my vision for Congress of African Journalists (CAJ) is to establish a unified voice for journalists across the continent, aiming to champion press freedom.
‎
‎5.  As Vice President of CAJ West Africa, what are your priorities for the region?
‎
‎My top priority  is to create more opportunities for interaction, such as improved networking events and professional development among Journalists in the West African region.
‎
‎6.  Can you share your experience working with the CAJ Eminent African Leaders and Achievers Award?
‎
‎Working on the (CAJ Eminent African Leaders and Achievers Award) required tight deadlines and cross-functional team coordination. My role as (Awards Committee Chairman) involves  the evaluation of nominations, ensuring that the selection process was fair, transparent and adheres to the  criteria established by CAJ.
‎
‎7.  What makes the CAJ Eminent African Leaders and Achievers Award unique, and what impact does it have?
‎
‎The CAJ Awards emphasizes a blend of professional achievements and personal attributes. Nominations for CAJ Awards are viewed as a confirmation of the work of nominees in their various countries.
‎
‎8.  What are some challenges facing journalists in West Africa, and how can they be addressed?
‎
‎West African journalists have bad working conditions, low pay and lack of resources or insurance for risky assignments. This means implementing policies that ensure that journalists are well paid and protected in West Africa.
‎
‎9.  How can African journalists better contribute to the continent’s development narrative?
‎
‎African journalists must endeavour to highlight Africa’s achievements, innovation and potential in the bid to build confidence and attract investment to Africa.
‎
‎10.  What opportunities do you see for young journalists in Africa, and how can they capitalize on them?
‎
‎With the decline of traditional media, young African journalists have the opportunity to build niches and leverage the digital platforms to reach people everywhere across the globe.
‎
‎11.  What drives your passion for journalism and promoting African stories?
‎
‎I’m thrilled by the fact that, the articles I write/ curate as sustainability editor brings some attention to the worsening climate catastrophe. Besides, I’m also driven by the need to promote alternative stories to help break the negatives news  cycle in Africa.
‎
‎11.  Can you share a memorable experience from your career as a journalist?
‎
‎Definitely, receiving my Paris 2024 Olympics accreditation was a major milestone in my career. Indeed, it was a long -held dream and that day represents the culmination of immense hard work and dedication. Besides, I consider networking with journalists/ media professionals across Africa and beyond through CAJ, crucial for career advancement.
‎
‎12. What’s your message to aspiring journalists in Africa?
‎
‎In an era of rampant misinformation, Africa needs a new generation of journalists who can navigate the digital landscape with integrity. In fact,  accuracy is non-negotiable in journalism.
‎
‎13.  On a final note, what  strategies are you putting in place to make CAJ the largest umbrella for Ghanaian Journalists and West Africa as a whole.
‎
‎I’am aiming to boost CAJ membership numbers in Ghana and West Africa, drive engagement and foster collaboration among West Africa journalists. Besides, I would be actively championing the rights of CAJ members.
‎
‎
‎Source: CAJ International Magazine