Dispelling the myths: What Africa is not

Discover the truth about Africa by debunking common myths and highlighting the continent’s rich diversity, growth, and potential. These 5 common myths are not what Africa is…

Dispelling the myths: What Africa is not

Africa is a continent full of life, culture, talent, and opportunity. Yet, many people around the world still carry outdated or false ideas about what Africa is like.

It is important to clear up these myths and share the truth about what Africa is and what it is not.

As Africa Day approaches, we at Pulse Ghana highlights some commons myths about Africa that people get wrong.
Africa is not a single country

Ghana’s nightlife mogul and alleged crypto kingpin, Dada Joe Remix, has reportedly been arrested in a secret FBI operation and may be extradited to the U.S. Sources say Accra’s elite are in panic mode.

Dada Joe Remix

Unity Cup 2025: Nigeria beat Ghana in London to book final clash with Jamaica

Africa

One of the most common mistakes people make is thinking Africa is one big country. In fact, Africa is made up of 54 separate countries. Each one has its own government, languages, food, music, and traditions. From Ghana to Kenya, Egypt to South Africa, every country is unique and proud of its own identity.

Africa is not poor and helpless
Africa

Another common myth is that Africa is only full of poverty, war, and suffering. Yes, there are challenges, just like in every part of the world, but there is also growth, creativity, and strength.

Many African cities like Accra, Lagos, Nairobi, and Kigali are booming with businesses, tech companies, and modern development. Africa also has natural wealth, including gold, oil, cocoa, and much more.

Africa is not “backward” or stuck in the past

Africa is not stuck in time. The continent is full of smart, innovative young people creating new ideas in technology, music, fashion, and business.

Ghana, for example, is home to some of the brightest talents in fintech and education. Africans are using the internet, building apps, and changing the world just like people in any other part of the globe.

Africa is not one culture or language
African culture

Some people think everyone in Africa speaks the same language or follows the same traditions. In reality, Africa is one of the most diverse places on Earth. There are over 2,000 languages spoken, and countless cultures and ethnic groups. This mix of differences is what makes the continent rich and colourful.
Africa is not a hopeless continent

Above all, Africa is not hopeless. It is a continent full of hope and promise.

Young people are working hard every day to make life better for themselves and their communities. More Africans are going to school, starting businesses, and leading in politics and science.

It’s time the world sees Africa for what it truly is: a land of potential, beauty, and strength. Not the myths we often hear.
Educate me

Mandela Anuvabe

What Ghanaian parents don’t teach about sex—and why it matters

In Ghana, discussions around sex and sexuality remain deeply rooted in cultural taboos and religious conservatism. Parents barely discuss anything sexual with their children.

This silence within families has significant consequences for young people, who often navigate adolescence without the guidance they need.

Understanding what Ghanaian parents typically don’t teach about sex—and why this matters—is crucial for improving sexual and reproductive health outcomes across the country.

The Silence at Home: What’s Not Being Taught

sex

Despite being primary agents of socialisation, many Ghanaian parents avoid discussing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) with their children. Sometimes when children are watching movies with their parents and a sex scene comes, there is always awkwardness. It usually feels like conversations about sex are a taboos.

This avoidance stems from various factors, including cultural norms and taboos. As a result, adolescents often seek information from unreliable sources, leading to misinformation and risky behaviours.

Cultural and Religious Barriers to Open Dialogue

In Ghana, sexuality is often considered a taboo subject, especially when it comes to discussions between parents and children. Many believe that talking about sex encourages promiscuity, leading to a reluctance to engage in such conversations.

This cultural silence is further reinforced by religious teachings that emphasise abstinence and view premarital sex as immoral.

The Consequences of Silence

The lack of open communication about sex has tangible consequences. Adolescents without accurate information are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, leading to higher rates of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Moreover, the absence of guidance can result in emotional distress and confusion during a critical developmental period.
The Importance of Comprehensive Sexual Education

Comprehensive sexual education (CSE) provides adolescents with accurate information about their bodies, relationships, and sexual health. Studies have shown that CSE can delay sexual initiation, reduce the number of sexual partners, and increase contraceptive use among young people. In Ghana, integrating CSE into school curricula and encouraging parental involvement can bridge the information gap and promote healthier outcomes.

Moving Forward: Encouraging Open Conversations

To address these challenges, several steps can be taken:

Parental Education: Programs that educate parents on how to discuss SRH topics with their children can empower families to have open and honest conversations.

Community Engagement: Involving community leaders and religious figures in promoting the importance of SRH education can help shift cultural norms.

Policy Implementation: Government policies that mandate comprehensive SRH education in schools can ensure that all adolescents receive accurate information.

Access to Resources: Providing adolescents with access to youth-friendly health services and educational materials can support informed decision-making.

Breaking the silence around sex and sexuality in Ghanaian households is essential for the well-being of young people. By addressing cultural and religious barriers, promoting comprehensive sexual education, and encouraging open dialogue, Ghana can equip its youth with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health.