RESOLUTION NO. RS2009-987

A resolution encouraging Comcast to include The Africa Channel as part of its programming.

WHEREAS, The Africa Channel is a multi-platform media company for “everything Africa,” anchored by a world-class entertainment television network; and

WHEREAS, founded in 2003, The Africa Channel is currently being broadcast on Comcast and Cox cable systems, which are respectively the largest and third largest cable providers in the United States; and

WHEREAS, The Africa Channel’s primary mission is to showcase Africa in mainstream media as it has never been seen before; and

WHEREAS, the channel’s entertainment and informational programming is about the people of Africa, their incredible stories, daily lives, successes, celebrations, challenges, and about the continent itself; and

WHEREAS, The Africa Channel is first and foremost an entertainment television network, featuring top-notch dramas, soap operas, travel shows, feature films, documentaries, special events, reality programs, award-winning news and information programming (including magazine shows), and a steady stream of new and traditional African music; and

WHEREAS, American audiences appreciate quality programming that is original, engaging, and worthy of their time; and

WHEREAS, in addition to The Africa Channel’s broad appeal to general audiences, there is significant demand from millions of Americans who currently do not have their global entertainment, political, and cultural needs met through existing channels, networks, or other media.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as encouraging Comcast to include The Africa Channel as part of its programming.

Section 2. That the Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a copy of this Resolution to the Nashville Comcast office.

Section 3. That this Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Jerry Maynard, Walter Hunt, Vivian Wilhoite