From the time my colleague criticized me about my writing on the Tibet issue, i have been obsessed with the multiple perspectives that can be possible on any story. I have often wondered as to how it would be if all sides are considered. The conclusion that can be derived is that lack of space, time and understanding all stand in a way of being well-informed.
Watching an edition of Inside Africa on CNN today, I was marveled that somebody at least showed the other side of a continent. Africa has always been in the news due to conflict, famine, floods, droughts, AIDS, tribal warfare and other negative stories. But, today, we saw an Africa which is real in our subconsciousness. The Africa with a thriving culture, great films focusing on their themes and also the trend setters in African society.
Africa is also like any other continent. For far too long, the whole world has seen Africa as a depressing place. Even today, if we ask any person about the first impression that he gets on hearing Africa, he would blurt out conflict and tribalism. Now, only few media outlets are focusing on the Africa that is real and possibly one which is rich and unique.
Ignore the fact that it was done by CNN. They may focus intensely on the problems in Darfur, Zimbabwe, Central Africa and various issues, but we can at least be satisfied that it is willing to show the other side of Africa as well. The expectations for other media to pursue the same line could be problematic, but somewhere, they are trying to give the world the other perspective.
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