CNN International has announced that it is overhauling 2 of its major Africa-focused shows, in what it says is a reaffirming of its commitment to covering the continent’s trends, culture and personalities.
As of May 8, British-Nigerian CNN anchor Zain Asher begun fronting the network’s premier weekly business show about the continent and its place within global markets – "CNN Marketplace Africa," in which the host breaks down economic trends affecting Africa, as well as interview business leaders who are helping to shape the continent. "CNN Marketplace Africa" will also report on the changing industries and sectors, and get answers from the leading CEOs and entrepreneurs at the top, on and off the continent.
Dangote Industries will be a sponsor.
Secondly, "African Voices," CNN’s 30-minute weekly show about the continent’s "most engaging personalities," will also be changing, starting on May 22nd. The new-look show will focus on uncovering some of the continent’s "most dazzling trendsetters" in areas such as travel, fashion, art, music, technology and architecture. "African Voices" will take CNN viewers on journeys through multiple cities and countries to showcase contemporary Africa, highlighting various influential personalities.
Both shows will have a new look and feel with new graphics, but they will retain their same established weekly slots on CNN International.
In addition to "CNN Marketplace Africa" and "African Voices," the network also broadcasts:
– "Inside Africa," its longest running show, and a cornerstone of the network’s coverage of Africa, now in its 16th year and hosted by Kenyan Soni Methu.
– "African Start-Up," launched in 2013, a weekly segment and bi-monthly show which follows entrepreneurs across the continent
– And "Africa View," which uses data and insight to shine a light on the continent’s diversity, dynamism and role on the global stage
All of these shows are supported through microsites, and social media initiatives such as Twitter chats and Q&As.
The latest independent EMS research shows that, every month, CNN reaches 59% of its target "upscale" demo within the continent, via TV and digital platforms, which the network says is well ahead of any direct competitors.
"These changes to CNN’s Africa output reflect the dynamic and seismic change taking place on the continent today,” said Ellana Lee, Senior Vice President at CNN International. “By bringing Zain Asher on board and completely refreshing two of our most-loved business and culture features shows we aim to uncover even more rich, vibrant and powerful stories and trends about modern Africa. With this unrivalled portfolio of five separate Africa content strands, CNN will continue to tell the world about this wonderful and inspiring continent.”