British-Ghanaian artist Fuse ODG has reignited conversations about Africa’s portrayal in charity campaigns as the iconic Band Aid song marks its 40th anniversary. Originally released in 1984 to raise funds for famine relief, Band Aid’s imagery and messaging have drawn criticism for perpetuating stereotypes about Africa as a continent of perpetual poverty and dependency.
Speaking to Focus on Africa, Fuse ODG reflected on the lasting impact of such representations, especially on young Africans in the diaspora. “Growing up in the UK, I was not proud of being African because of images initiatives like Band-Aid were portraying on TV,” he said. He emphasized how these portrayals ignored Africa’s rich culture, innovation, and progress, offering a narrow and often harmful narrative.
Fuse ODG, renowned for his global hit Antenna and his advocacy for celebrating African culture, declined an invitation in 2019 to participate in a re-recording of Do They Know It’s Christmas? He explained that the song’s messaging did not align with his mission to highlight Africa’s vibrancy and potential.
While Band Aid undoubtedly raised significant funds and awareness for famine relief, critics argue that its approach contributed to a simplistic and damaging narrative. Campaigns like Band Aid often focus on despair, sidelining stories of African resilience, innovation, and growth.
As Fuse ODG continues to challenge stereotypes through his music and advocacy, the 40th anniversary of Band Aid serves as a moment of reflection on the responsibility of media and art in shaping perceptions of Africa.