Is there an Opportunity for Ethnic Journalism in Indigenous Language Broadcasting in Ghana? A Study of Fafaa Radio

Abstract

This study broaches a conversation on ethnic media and journalism in Ghana by asking whether a case could be made for the practice of ethnic media/journalism, focusing on Fafaa Radio (Fafaa), a private commercial FM station in Dzodze, Ghana. The study occurs at the backdrop of apparent disquiet about the communication of ethnic or tribal matters in Africa’s public spaces because of its potential or evidenced-based implications for divisiveness and conflicts. Using indepth interviews with key purposively selected media practitioners of the station and document analysis, the study addresses issues relating to Fafaa as an ethnic media outlet. The study occurs within an interpretative analytical approach underpinned by sociological imagination and normative considerations about professionalism in local and national contexts. The finding is that whilst Fafaa largely fulfils the characteristics of ethnic media, it is debateable to say it practises ethnic journalism since the practices are almost analogous with the conceptualisation of community media by the regulatory body, the National Communication Authority (NCA). The analysis further suggests that the orientation of Fafaa as potentially ethnic, serving an Ewe community, influences the practices and professionalism of the station’s journalists. The study concludes that conceptualisation and education are needed to legitimise ethnic media.