"This study examines the status of media development in Anglophone Africa and specifically assesses adherence to the OECD’s six Principles that guide donor support for relevant and effective media development. The research draws on qualitative and quantitative data collected through surveys and interviews with diverse media development actors who have worked in this sector in different countries for over a decade. The findings reveal a complex media landscape shaped by political interference, shrinking revenues, digital disruption, and systemic underfunding that affect progress to evenly adhere to the six OECD Principles.
The Principles also reveal the need for a shift toward systemic, inclusive, and evidence-driven approaches. Across the region, local actors are often positioned as implementers rather than agenda-setters, limiting genuine ownership of media development. Coordination between donors and media outlets is hampered by bureaucratic burdens and duplication of efforts, especially during crises. Investment in research, learning, and knowledge sharing is underfunded, restricting the growth of an evidence base that could guide future reforms. However, isolated successes— such as legal defense mechanisms in West Africa, risk assessments in Kenyan newsrooms, and media literacy integration in Namibia—highlight the potential for scalable solutions. These cases underscore the importance of strengthening local leadership, diversifying funding, and embedding research and systemic collaboration into media development strategies." (Introduction, page 5)