On Monday 3rd July, the maiden edition of the Africa PR and Communications Report (APCR) with verified data, facts and statistics on the continent’s Public Relations industry was launched by BHM Research & Intelligence (BR&I)
The comprehensive report which is the first of its kind provides insights into the current state of the African Public Relations industry, including the challenges and opportunities available to practitioners and stakeholders. Employing compelling data analyses and professional experience, the APCR underscores the importance of understanding emerging trends, the unique needs of practitioners, and the necessary actions to elevate PR practice on the continent.
Speaking about the report which captures diverse cultures, professional practices and capacity, and growth opportunities for the PR and communication industry in Africa, Ayeni Adekunle, BHM Founder and APCR Committee chair, expressed how pleased the team is to “create yet another world-class funnel for the growth of PR and communications practice, this time in Africa…there is not a better time for PR professionals to proudly wear the badge and understand our role in helping to drive the continent to a place we can all be proud of.”
The APCR, according to Mr Adekunle, is “the first step in rallying all practitioners and stakeholders on the continent to understand what is possible and actions to embark upon, but we must first acknowledge that no significant influence can be achieved without key data and information. We are enthused about the new insights provided in the APCR and how they’ll shape PR and communication practice in Africa as we know it, for the benefit of the continent and its one-billion-strong people.”
As the African continent continues to experience economic growth and social development, PR professionals are expected to understand their role in influencing further global recognition of its prospects and driving investments by being embedded in every area of policymaking, advisory, and management.
This is why Eniola Harrison, Co-founder, Africa PR & Communications Week and APCR Committee Adviser, acknowledges that, “It is an important time for the PR & communication industry to play a role in driving Africa towards sustainable growth, as the continent continues to evolve and present new opportunities. We are delighted that the APCR provides us with enough data and insights into what the future of PR practice will look like and how we can navigate the challenges that can hinder our efforts. The journey to elevate industry practice and bolster Africa’s burgeoning industrialism for the betterment of its people starts now and we must all stay committed.”
The APCR featured verified data, insights and perspectives from over 500 leading practitioners and experts across 29 countries in North, Southern, East, Central and West Africa were gathered through focus group discussions (FGDs), interviews, surveys, and essay contributions.
The report was compiled in partnership with the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR UK), CIPR International, the International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO), Africa Communications Week (ACW), Wadds Incorporated, ID Africa, Plaqad Incorporated, and Magna Carta Reputation Management Consultants.
The access the full report, please click here.
