By Sharon Tibenda

13^th Aug 2012:

The BBC has launched its first-ever dedicated daily TV news programme in English for African audiences in Uganda.  The new programme, BBC Focus On Africa, brings together the expertise of the BBC World Service African languages and BBC World News on television.

It is the first in a range of new programming for Africa to be launched by the BBC this summer, including a major expansion of its TV offer.

BBC Focus on Africa was aired last week, August 6, on Urban TV in Uganda.  It will also be aired globally on BBC World News channel as part of an expansion program of the BBC’s offer on TV, radio and online.

Ghanaian-born Komla Dumor and Sophie Ikenye, a Kenyan, will present the daily 30-minute news programme.  The programme will draw on the pool of BBC African talent on the continent and in London to report on Africa’s rising economies, entrepreneurs, innovators, culture, entertainment and sport.

According to a BBC press release, the programme will feature Africa Beats, looking at the people behind Africa’s varied music scenes.  It will also report on the latest developments in business, technology and science and speak to those driving change, as well as look at how Africa is becoming an information technology hotspot.

Focus on Africa will be covering the major news from the continent, and especially asking: is there a way out of the Sudan and South Sudan crisis? What impact will Europe’s economic problems have on Africa’s booming economies? How does Africa deal with its growth in natural resources?

The programme will also challenge African leaders and politicians on tough issues.  “…Every step of the way, viewers will have their say through social media.” the BBC said.

Presenter Komla Dumor said, “…after decades of turmoil and uncertainty, a new Africa is emerging. The old stereotypes are being challenged and a new, compelling narrative is being written. I am incredibly excited to be part of a new BBC programme that will provide solid coverage and analysis of Africa’s challenges and prospects.”

Mark Walungama, Head of Television, Vision Group, said: “…This is a great opportunity for Vision Group, especially Urban Television, to partner with the BBC, and in particular, the Focus on Africa programme. Focus on Africa will qualitatively improve our audiences’ understanding about issues affecting the continent from not only an African perspective but also the global one.”

Solomon Mugera, Editor BBC Africa says: “…Africa is now one of the fastest developing news markets in the world – this new investment will expand our services for African audiences.

With correspondents in 48 African countries, production centres in Nairobi, Abuja, Johannesburg and Dakar and a weekly audience of nearly 80 million, the BBC already has deep roots in the continent.

The BBC made its first broadcast to Africa more than 80 years ago. The combined audience on radio and television makes the BBC the largest international broadcaster in Africa.

END.  Login to www.ugandacorrespondent.com every Monday to read our top stories mid-week for our updates

Follow us: Twitter: @UGCorrespondent

Follow us: Facebook: Uganda Correspondent