It is vital to center Africans telling their own stories and is very powerful when we see it through different modalities. One reason it matters to me is because having the opportunity to tell one's own stories is a powerful way to learn about communities, histories, and cultures. When the story comes from someone who has experienced something themself there is more authenticity to it. 

Mr. Komla Dumor speaks to the importance of the voice of the person who has lived the experience. That there is priceless value in telling of one’s story because of one’s experience, history, and ancestry. It is far too common that written history comes from those who not only misunderstand the community but those who have taken over the community. The description comes with a bias and a fundamental misunderstanding of the community.

Lastly, Africans telling their own stories is not only for the benefit of those looking in and outsiders wanting to learn about it. One of the most important things is to continue sharing that history so that those (particularly the youth) within the community learn about the history and continue to develop an appreciation and understanding for their own culture.