Addis Ababa, April 7(ENA)--Addis Secretary General of the African Economic Commission (ECA) stressed the need to attach due attention to radio and television broadcasting in Africa as it plays pivotal role in boosting the overall development of the continent.

K.Y Amoako said radio and television broadcasting has a paramount importance in mobilizing the general public to participate directly in development activities and fighting the grinding poverty across Africa.

Amoako made the remark here on Monday while opening an international workshop on 'Broadcasting for Development'.

He said information has become crucial to bring about speedy economic development and social progress.

Africa has been facing various health problems due to lack of adequate information and incompetence of the mass media, he said.

Speaking at the occasion, Director General of the Voice of Nigeria Taiwo Allimi said expansion of community and rural radio broadcasting was essential to promote sustainable democracy and development throughout Africa.

Allimi also indicated that development-broadcasting awards should be institutionalized in Africa with the view to encourage development journalism across the continent.

He said radio and television broadcasting in Africa should focus on, among others, health, poverty reduction, food security, education and conflict resolution.

The two-day workshop has brought together some 40 broadcasting organizations including the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and the Voice of America (VOA).