The document discusses the future of journalism in Africa and how it will likely lie in mobile social networks. It notes that while internet access in Africa is currently low and skewed towards wealthy urban elites, mobile phone use is growing rapidly. Mobile social networks and SMS can help foster more inclusive and representative conversations. For African journalism to fully utilize social media, media organizations will need to improve ICT infrastructure, develop policies, and form partnerships with ICT and development organizations. The future of African social media will be driven by mobile platforms more than desktop access.

1. Jude Mathurine Coordinator New Media Lab Rhodes University [email_address] Why the future of African journalism lies in mobile social networks Presented @ Media140, Sydney Future of Journalism in Social Media age

12. Does The Digital Divide mean Africa will be left behind in real-time and social media revolution?

14. Two African countries are Opera’s Top 10 international users

15. Mobile Use/Consumption

16. Mobile Use/Consumption

17. Mobile Use/Consumption

18. Mobile Use/Consumption

19. The revolution will be mobilised

24. Mxit – 15m users

25. The Grid –location based social network

26. The Grid – GPS based social network can be used for locative reporting

27. Kabissa – networks African civil society groups using ICTs

28. Gatorpeeps –Twitter knock-off (integrates with Twitter account if desired)

29. Zoopy – online video community

30. Haiya – Kenya

32. No electricity, no problem Yes, it is a solar powered donkey cart

33. No electricity, no problem? Informal rechargers. Solar jackets for Boda Boda riders

39. The Namibian

41. Grocott’s Citizen Media Newsroom

42. Citizen contributed media (Grocott’s fire photograph below)

43. Grocott’s Citizen SMS

44. MyMakana Citizen generated stories

46. Concepts

49. Join the conversation Jude Mathurine @newmediajude http://nml.ru.ac.za