Mobile Phones Influence on Journalism Practice in Africa

This article reviews current research on mobile phone appropriation by journalists and how this has transformed journalism practice in Africa. Based on Marshall McLuhan's Medium theory, the article explores perspectives from various research studies on how the medium, or the mobile, is shaping media practice, guided by the concept of ‘technological determinism.' As Africa moves towards becoming part of the information society, the mobile or ‘The New Talking Drum of Everyday Africa' (De Bruijn et al., 2009), has become an essential multi-purpose tool for journalists. Several challenges in assessing the impact of mobiles on journalism that are peculiar to Africa are highlighted, including the digital divide that is translating into the mobile divide. Pointers are given for future research directions that should facilitate the harnessing of the potential of ‘mobiles 4 development,' thereby contributing to overall development in African countries.