A panafricanist voice takes on Benin’s cultural leadership

Claudy Siar, a media professional known for his outspoken panafricanist views, has been appointed Special Advisor to the President of Benin for cultural affairs, media, and national visibility. The announcement marks a significant shift in his career trajectory, transitioning from international broadcasting to a high-level advisory role in his home country.

Siar’s appointment comes just months after he left Radio France Internationale, where he hosted Couleurs Tropicales for over three decades. His departure from the French broadcaster was not without controversy. Following the conclusion of his contract renewal process, Siar publicly stated that his exit was motivated by disagreements over editorial direction and his refusal to compromise his panafricanist principles in the face of Western political pressures. The broadcaster, for its part, cited a strategic realignment of musical programming.

With more than 31 years of experience at RFI, Siar has now embraced a new challenge with NewWorld TV, where he is involved in developing innovative audiovisual projects including the upcoming launch of NewWorld Mix and NewWorld Muzik channels. His transition reflects both personal conviction and a commitment to shaping Benin’s cultural narrative on the continental stage.