Mombasa:African storytellers, creatives, and cultural advocates have gathered in Mombasa for the third edition of Afrotellers, a conference aimed at encouraging Africans to take charge of telling their own stories. The event has attracted more than 200 delegates from across Africa and the diaspora to discuss how narratives can drive social change and preserve the continent’s culture.
According to Kenya News Agency, the conference is being held under the theme ‘Narrative Sovereignty in the Age of AI and Shifting Global Power.’ It focuses on how creatives can maintain control over their stories, navigate emerging technologies, and strengthen the continent’s creative industries. Discussions involve artificial intelligence, algorithmic colonialism, language representation in technology, information warfare, and policy frameworks with the African Union and the East African Community.
Afrotellers Executive Director Wilson Chisaga emphasized the importance of the conference as a platform for creatives to exchange ideas and forge partnerships. He highlighted Mombasa’s historical and cultural significance as an ideal venue for discussions on narrative sovereignty. Chisaga stated, “Our agenda is to create a platform to chart new pathways as African storytellers and to show that we are united despite our borders.”
Afrotellers Board Chairman Dr. Munywradzi Chatikobo urged storytellers to ensure that African narratives not only document experiences but also lead to tangible improvements in people’s lives, shaping global perceptions and inspiring social and economic transformation.
Jonathan Wephukhulu, Mombasa County Executive Committee Member for Sports and Gender, noted that hosting the gathering is a significant milestone for promoting cultural exchange, nurturing local talent, and expanding tourism. He emphasized the forum’s role in allowing local creatives to showcase their abilities and form partnerships with counterparts from across the continent.
Human rights activist Rachael Mwikali called for greater recognition of the Coast region’s heritage through African-led storytelling, citing figures like freedom fighter Mekatilili wa Menza. She urged creatives to embrace technology responsibly and engage with policymakers to develop frameworks supporting the creative sector, emphasizing the need for unity and innovation among African storytellers.
