Power to the People

A lively and critical society has developed that could change the face of the continent. For example: Frederick Chiluba thought it would be an easy journey. In 2002, he suggested to erase a clause from the constitution that prohibited him from running for a third term as president of Zambia. Yet to his surprise, public protests stopped parliamentarians from executing his will.

A new dawn

In many African countries, the time for corrupt and authoritarian politicians is coming to an end. Despite many setbacks, people have started to ask more from their leaders. They demand accountable and democratic politicians in government, with local, non-governmental organizations helping to make the voice of the people to be heard.

Power to the people

There are plenty of reasons for Learning by Ear to focus on the role of society in Africa. The shows don’t stop at their political role, but also examine how a civil society can help to alleviate poverty and promote reconciliation. Learning by Ear will take listeners on a journey from Liberia to Kenya to see how ordinary people are fighting for a new Africa.

Learning by Ear is available in six languages: English, Kiswahili, French, Hausa, Portuguese and Amharic. Learning by Ear is supported by Germany’s Federal Foreign Office.

Listeners' reactions
Read what other listeners think about our series "Civil Society and a new Africa" on the next page.

Listeners' reactions
"Fantastic! The approach you took is ok. It will help reduce tension among homosexuals and in homophobic societies. I also at many times consicered suicide, especially when I couldn't find people like me. I then thought I was the only person so created by God."
(A listener from Kano, Nigeria)