BEYOND POLITICS

Instead of looking at producing sustainable wealth, Africa has long been preoccupied with political drama. The media has tended to be sensational in reporting on politics, with almost no attention to economic issues, so, in turn, they will be able to hold business accountable and contribute to the creation of viable economies. Likewise, the distribution of wealth must be taken out of the sole context of the political, tribal, and ethnic division of the national “cake.” An effective media understands corporate governance, disclosure, and the efficient use of resources by private sector. Similarly, there is excessive focus on corruption in the public sector, without any attention or thought as to who drives corruption in terms of supply. Yet it is obvious that it is the private sector that ‘the millions in order to make billions’ and in most cases is tempted to offer bribes. But with transparent disclosure and competition, the possibilities for corruption are reduced. The media needs to be asking these questions, holding both the private and public sectors accountable, rather than fixating on the drama of political patronage.