The Africa Matters Summit has officially kicked off in Johannesburg, South Africa, with Channel Africa positioning the platform as a driver of Africa’s development agenda.
The summit, held in partnership with the Wits Business School, is taking place under the theme “Financing Africa’s Recovery” and brings together policymakers, experts and researchers to explore solutions for the continent amid climate change challenges.
Channel Africa Business Manager Dicksy Ngqula says the platform is evolving beyond its traditional broadcasting role to support Africa’s growth and global positioning.
We’re underway at the #AfricaMatters Summit at @witsbschool, where leaders & innovators are shaping Africa’s future.
Follow the conversation here: https://t.co/Y26YhAtB9r#AfricaMatters #ChannelAfrica #ClimateAction pic.twitter.com/LlkkvUBHUp
— Channel Africa (@channelafrica1) March 25, 2026
Ngqula says, “Channel Africa is the SABC’s international channel, and we take pride in supporting a mandate that positions African voices on the global stage. We broadcast in multiple languages including Chinyanja, Kiswahili, French, Portuguese and English, engaging the continent and the diaspora.”
He says the organisation has adopted a digital-first approach to expand its reach globally.
“We have adopted a digital-first strategy to ensure we reach audiences across the world. Channel Africa’s role on the continent is much bigger than reporting news, we are here to support the advancement of the African continent,” he said.
Ngqula emphasised that the summit seeks to address Africa’s limited access to climate finance despite being disproportionately affected by climate change.
“Africa contributes far less to global emissions, yet it is the most negatively affected. This is the picture we want to change, to ensure that we take our destiny into our own hands and develop solutions that work for us.”
He adds that the initiative is aimed at reshaping Africa’s narrative and driving meaningful engagement.
Ngqula says, “For far too long, the African narrative has been underrepresented and told through other people’s lenses. We are here to position Africa at the centre of its own story.”
Ngqula also stressed that the summit must produce tangible outcomes, “We are not here to create a talk shop. We are here to drive meaningful conversations that go beyond headlines; on governance, trade, innovation, youth development and Africa’s role in the global context.”
–ChannelAfrica–
