African Ecomedia: Network Forms, Planetary Politics

Cajetan Iheka explores the ecological footprint of media in Africa, highlighting the socioecological costs of media production and the creativity of African media makers in addressing environmental issues.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 24 December 2021
Publisher: Duke University Press

Cajetan Iheka delves into the intricate relationship between media in Africa and the portrayal of environmental concerns in visual culture in his groundbreaking work, African Ecomedia. Through a comprehensive examination of various forms of visual media, including film, photography, and sculpture, Iheka unveils the profound ecological footprint of media production in Africa. He highlights how African artists employ these mediums to shed light on the socioecological consequences of media consumption, encompassing everything from mineral and oil extraction to the politics of animal conservation.

One of the key aspects of Iheka's analysis is his examination of the photography of Pieter Hugo, which captures the intricate processes of electronic waste recycling in Ghana. Through his lens, Hugo sheds light on the human toll of resource extraction, as well as the environmental degradation caused by electronic waste disposal. Similarly, Idrissou Mora-Kpai's documentary on uranium mining in Niger provides a harrowing account of the devastating consequences of resource extraction on local communities and the environment.

These works not only expose the exploitation of African workers and the vast scope of environmental degradation but also showcase the resourcefulness and creativity of African media makers. They serve as a poignant reminder of the unsustainability of current practices while acknowledging the finite natural resources of our planet. By foregrounding Africa's centrality to the production and disposal of media technology, Iheka underscores the critical role that visual media plays in raising awareness of ecological disasters and documenting their impact.

However, it is important to note that while visual media can be powerful tools for raising awareness, they are also complicit in perpetuating these disasters. Iheka's work highlights the need for a more ethical and sustainable approach to media production and consumption, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human societies and the natural world.

In conclusion, Cajetan Iheka's African Ecomedia offers a thought-provoking exploration of the ecological footprint of media in Africa and the representation of environmental issues in visual culture. Through his meticulous analysis and compelling visual evidence, Iheka demonstrates the importance of visual media in raising awareness of ecological disasters and documenting their impact. However, it is crucial to recognize the ethical responsibilities of media makers and consumers in promoting sustainable practices and protecting our planet's finite natural resources.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 187 x 267 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478014744