Media Sustainability Index (MSI) Africa

MSI Africa 2006-2007

Introduction

I am pleased to introduce the first edition of the Africa Media Sustainability Index (MSI). This represents the third region covered by the MSI, after its 2001 introduction to Europe and Eurasia and its introduction in 2005 to the Middle East and North Africa.

The Africa MSI has shown the durability and applicability of the objectives and indicators designed for the original MSI. Minor changes in the panelist and moderator instructions ensured our results embrace uniquely African features, including the prevalence of radio—notably community radio—found in many countries.

The results indicate that the worldwide media community has more in common than we may realize or acknowledge. The MSI approach works as well in Africa as it has in Europe and the Middle East. Professional norms, the importance of laws promoting free expression, sound management practices, and the importance of supporting institutions are not bound by geography or unduly constrained by cultural differences.

The MSI has evolved into an important tool for analyzing media sectors and changes over time, and for providing cross-border comparisons. Donors, diplomats, media development implementers, and policymakers use the MSI as an assessment tool to show where efforts for reform and development would be concentrated best. Perhaps more importantly, the MSI serves as a self-assessment tool for local media professionals. Local professionals can use this analysis to advocate for focused reform through change in media laws and renewed emphasis on training.

To complete the MSI in 37 countries and to maintain our practice of capturing local perspectives, IREX relied on partnerships with 10 local organizations and two individuals. IREX wishes to thank them for their participation. This would not have been possible without their energy and dedication to media development.

The current Africa MSI was supported by funding from the Canadian International Development Agency, World Bank Institute, and USAID. We would like to thank Mark Nelson at the World Bank Institute and Mark Koenig of USAID for their strong support and input into the MSI in general and the Africa MSI in particular. At IREX, I would like to recognize the efforts of Leon Morse, the MSI project manager, for managing the completion of this ambitious project. Drusilla Menaker and Blake Saville provided important support.

We hope you find the study useful and we welcome your feedback.

Sincerely,

Mark Whitehouse
Director, Media Development, IREX