In an insightful interview with BMA, ahead of the Broadcast And Digital Media Convention Africa 2024, which will be held from October 8th to 10th at The Swakopmund Legacy Hotel in Namibia, Pikirayi Deketeke, CEO of Zimpapers, shed light on the current challenges African broadcasters face.
From navigating the growing influence of social media to addressing the impact of international OTT platforms, his perspective offers a glimpse into the critical issues shaping the future of broadcast media on the continent.
Below is an abstract from the conversation:
BMA: What influenced your decision to agree to participate in this year’s Broadcast And Digital Media Convention Africa 2024?
Deketeke: The invitation from the organisers was convincing enough to persuade me to agree to participate and the need to share ideas on how to develop our broadcast media in Africa.
BMA: Please tell us what key challenges Africa’s broadcast media professionals are facing in today’s media ecosystem.
Deketeke: The major challenge, in my view, is the proliferation of content on social media created by non-professionals. Everyone has become a broadcaster as long as they have a smartphone, and audiences are being bombarded with free content. This, thereby, robs legitimate broadcasters of much-needed revenue that keeps the business of broadcasting alive.
The second challenge is the growing penetration of OTT channels on African television screens, which creates unfair competition for underfunded, emerging, and still developing broadcasters in Africa.
BMA: In your opinion/experience, how do you think / or do you see these challenges being overcome or resolved?
Deketeke: The rise of social media and the influx of international OTT platforms necessitate a united front. It’s crucial for African broadcasters to collaborate in developing content, apps, or technology that can counter these challenges. Additionally, the involvement of African governments is essential in defending and promoting our sector.
BMA: With all said, tell us what you hope colleagues will take away from this industry event.
Deketeke:
- Concrete collaboration initiatives
- Creating intercontinental content markets
- Possible technology insights that will make broadcasting cheaper and improve quality and reach.
The convention, taking place at The Swakopmund Legacy Hotel in Namibia, promises to be a platform for impactful dialogue and innovation, offering valuable takeaways for all attendees.
Visit the website here to join industry leaders and experts.
