Addis ababa: African social media influencers are being urged to take a more active role in reshaping global perceptions of the continent, as media leaders warn that misinformation and outdated stereotypes continue to distort Africa's image. Speaking at the African Social Media Influencers Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopian News Agency CEO Seife Deribe said African creators must use their platforms to promote authentic narratives that reflect the continent's progress, culture, and potential.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Seife addressed a room filled with digital creators, entrepreneurs, and media professionals, emphasizing that Africa can no longer remain passive while others shape its story through misinformation and outdated stereotypes. He highlighted the importance of narratives that acknowledge the continent's achievements and urged influencers to take responsibility in shaping Africa's global image.
Seife described the summit's theme, 'Influence for a Better Africa,' as more than just a slogan, but a call for creators to use their influence with purpose. He encouraged influencers to focus on educating audiences, inspiring young people, promoting unity, and contributing to meaningful change across Africa, rather than solely on entertainment.
He also raised concerns about major challenges the continent faces, such as misinformation, conflict, social division, and fragmentation, and called for responsible digital leadership. Seife emphasized that the summit aims to redefine digital influence in Africa by prioritizing responsibility, community-building, and social impact.
In his speech, Seife called on creators to celebrate African culture, promote innovation, uplift women's leadership, and reject exploitation and abuse in digital spaces. He connected this initiative to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's broader vision of Africans telling their own stories to counter negative stereotypes dominating global conversations.
Despite the optimistic tone, Seife acknowledged that challenges remain. He warned that misinformation, division, and conflict continue to threaten Africa's unity and progress. Hosting the summit in Addis Ababa, he noted, carries symbolic significance as Africa's political capital and a reflection of the continent's resilience and ambition. He also pointed to Ethiopia's ongoing development efforts as part of a broader story of transformation unfolding across Africa.