Static in the Air: The Enduring Power of African Radio

In an age dominated by smartphones and social media, many assume radio is becoming a relic of the past. Yet across Africa, this century-old technology continues to inform, connect, and influence millions of people every day. In this episode, we explore the enduring power of radio on the continent, tracing its evolution from a tool of colonial administration to a vibrant platform for news, entertainment, and public debate. We examine why radio remains the most accessible source of information for many communities, how broadcasters are adapting to the digital era, and why growing demand is pushing cities to rethink the future of the airwaves. The story reveals that rather than being replaced by the internet, radio is evolving alongside it—demonstrating that one of the world's oldest forms of mass communication still has a vital role to play in the twenty-first century.https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/07/23/why-young-africans-still-listen-to-the-radio