Abstract
Examines the modes of communicating African history and its inherent distinctions from Western narrative history. African history addresses itself to many publics and must rely on oral communication and tradition to reach the majority of the population. At present, history is communicated to the intellectual community, students, and the ruling class. It tends to reflect Western theory and practice. The historian is detached from the population at large and does not offer pragmatic responses to the need to know more about African poverty. There is a need for African historians to address urban and rural populations in ways similar to those of oral tradition that existed before colonialism. The dissemination by radio of oral history and tradition can reach this wider audience, and will enable African historians to create their own manner and voice.