When African Stream was kicked off all major social platforms apart from X, formerly known as Twitter, following baseless accusations from the US State Department, many of our videos disappeared, including many of our reaction videos. One of our favorites was after the historic, revolutionary coup that took place Niger and CNN’s attempt to paint it as a terrible thing supported by Niamey’s political elites.
Shortly after July 26, it was evident that the military overthrow of Western-aligned president Mohamed Bazoum had widespread support. For Nigeriens, here at last was a chance to kick out the exploitative French – and their influence – from their motherland.
CNN brought on Washington DC think-tanker and former State Department employee Aneliese Bernard to explain France’s (and the West’s) dwindling fortunes in Niger.
Trying to make sense of it all, she said that the capital, Niamey, was populated by the elite, whose differences with the president may have contributed to his downfall. No mention of how France has greatly benefited at the expense of Niger, which is one of the poorest countries in the world with a per capita income of $ 628 (IMF).
CNN’s host Zain Asher then echoed the West’s fear of an awakened continent when she wondered why Nigeriens were happy to be rid of a ‘democratically elected’ leader who is ‘trusted by the West’.
It’s a dangerous time for humanity when mainstream media believes its propaganda, especially about Africa. It’s even more dangerous when people believe what these ‘experts’ say about the continent.
Watch the reaction videos on our YouTube channel and help us unmask them.