New Publication: Scholars Explore BBC’s Influence on African Broadcasting

The University of Malawi continues to cement its position as a prime center of research. The evidence of this comes from the publications that emerge from scholars at the institution from time to time. One of the most recent publications is an edited book volume, The BBCs Legacy in Africa, published by Routledge in July, 2025. The team of editors for the book includes two established media and communication academics at UNIMA, Dr Anthony Gunde and Mr Jimmy Kainja, and another well-known scholar in the field, Dr. Albert Sharra, currently a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Witwatersrand and University of Edinburgh.

Conversations on the role of the BBC in African media scene have abounded in formal and informal circles for a long time. Fortunately, we now have these discussions appearing in one volume, which should definitely act as a prompt to continue the discourse on media influences even further. As the title indicates, the book showcases modes through which radio broadcasting has been impacted by the BBC in multiple ways. Some radio stations have adopted the BBC model wholesomely, whereas others have departed from the BBC’s media legacy, crafting their own unique or hybrid identities. The book has essays penned by scholars from different countries, including Nigeria, Benin Republic, Uganda, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi. The chapters touch on a variety of issues, such as attempts to decolonize the African Radio, the role of BBC Focus on Africa, and indeed the interview model popularized by BBC’s HARDtalk.

One of the editors, Dr Anthony Gunde, highlighted that conceptualization of the book project started in 2023. “We noticed a scarcity of literature on the extent of the BBC’s influence on African radio. Now that this volume has been published, we believe it reshapes our understanding of African broadcasting by exposing the deep and enduring legacy of the BBC. It is a must read for everyone seeking to decolonize media histories and futures of the continent,” he said.  

Several staff members from the University of Malawi have also contributed chapters to the book. These include Dr James Hamburu Mawerenga from the Theology and Religious Studies Department, Dr Chimwemwe Chavinda from the Media and Communication Studies Department, and Dr Pascal Mwale from the Philosophy Department.

The book is available on the publisher’s website as well as all major online book selling outlets. 

https://www.routledge.com/The-BBCs-Legacy-in-Africa-Continuities-and-Change/Sharra-Kainja-Gunde/p/book/9781041017394?srsltid=AfmBOorT6JLWgnNUOpAXZyKOdzJubk8mkOJKp__JNGY5aKCW99VR5vt