Language, Communication and Education for Africa’s Transformation

Abstract

For over five centuries, Africa has been a continent of horror. Intra-tribal wars were followed by nasty colonial exploitation. The advent of Independence which ought to be a prelude to better transformation ushered in the despotic military and civilian leaders who have no love for their countries. A chaotic society cannot thrive economically and politically. A war-turn zone cannot experience development. Undoubtedly, no society is totally free of crises. From the naïve hamlets to the most complex city in Africa, there have always been records of incessant conflict needing urgent intervention. The memories of the Ebola virus are still causing nightmares in many West African countries. The massacre perpetrated by terrorist organizations like Maitacine, Boko Haram, and Al Shabab has become a source of trauma to many powerful Nations of our black continent. The terrorist attack of 14 November 2015 in Abuja that claimed over hundred lives is fresh in our memory. The most heartless are moved with pity when they watch the horrifying experience of Migrants. This paper, therefore, sees language use, communication, and education as powerful weapons in conflict resolution and transformation. While the communication received can guide or mislead an individual, proper education can perpetually lead him out of poverty. In other words, this paper looks at the manner communication and education can be used as a means of fostering peace at all levels of human engagement, with special reference to the mass media.