ASMIS Participants Pledge to Help Shape Africa’s Narratives, Praise Ethiopia’s Hospitality

ADDIS ABABA, May 6 (ENA) —Participants arriving in Addis Ababa for the African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) 2026 have pledged to work together to reshape global perceptions of Africa by telling authentic stories about the continent through digital platforms.

The summit, scheduled to take place from May 7–8, is bringing together prominent social media influencers and digital creators from across Africa to discuss collaboration, storytelling, and the growing role of content creators in shaping the continent’s image.

As delegates continue to arrive in the Ethiopian capital, many have praised Ethiopia for its warm reception and hospitality, describing the country as an ideal host for the continental gathering.

Speaking to ENA, Ugandan influencer Simpo Gladys (Angeyo Rwot Gladys) said her content focuses on highlighting Africa’s rich culture, traditions, and everyday realities that are often ignored by international media outlets.

She stressed that African creators have a responsibility to present a more balanced and positive image of the continent.

“There is so much beauty in Africa that the world rarely gets to see. Through our content, we want to tell our own stories in a way that reflects who we truly are,” she said.

Gladys also described Ethiopia as a nation with an “authentic culture” and expressed admiration for the rapid transformation of Addis Ababa.

She noted that ASMIS will serve as an important platform for creators to build stronger networks and rethink how African stories are shared in the digital age.

Another participant, Nyako Nyako (Akwanga Esther Ochilii), who is visiting Addis Ababa for the second time, said she was deeply impressed by the hospitality extended to visitors.

Describing her reception as “overwhelming,” she said the summit presents an opportunity for African influencers to deepen collaboration and collectively reshape how the continent is portrayed globally.

Nyako emphasized that Africans must take ownership of their narratives rather than allowing outsiders to define the continent’s identity and history.

For first-time visitor CB Talker (Onjeyo Joshua), Ethiopia has left a lasting impression.

He praised the country’s hospitality and visible development, describing Ethiopia as “the Dubai of Africa.”

Joshua said he is eager to exchange ideas with fellow creators on producing impactful digital content that promotes African countries, including Ethiopia and his home country, Uganda.

Meanwhile, Botswana-based influencer William Last KRM (Bofelo William Molebatsi) said his second visit to Ethiopia reinforced his belief in African unity.

“Everywhere I go in Africa feels like home,” he said.

KRM highlighted the need for discussions beyond content creation itself, including strategies for platform growth, sustainability, and monetization.

He also encouraged young Africans to believe in their abilities, emphasizing that creativity and determination can unlock opportunities for success.

The summit is expected to strengthen partnerships among African digital creators and advance a shared commitment to telling Africa’s story through authentic voices that reflect the continent’s diversity, innovation, and potential.