🇧🇫Burkina FasoWest Africa
AI-generated images threaten modeling careers, says communication consultant Francis G. Campbell
via Lefaso.net18 min read
The rise of AI-generated images in advertising poses a significant threat to the modeling industry, particularly for commercial models, according to Francis G. Campbell, a corporate communication consultant and expert in image management. Campbell, who also directs Burkina Faso's first agency specializing in artistic career management and support for small and medium-sized enterprises, notes that AI allows for the creation of nearly perfect, realistic African model images, directly impacting the demand for human models. Companies favor AI visuals due to cost reduction, eliminating agency fees, model payments, makeup artists, hairstylists, and studio rentals. AI also offers rapid execution and almost total control over the final visual, allowing for quick modifications to clothing, age, or decor without additional costs. Campbell observes a noticeable decline in contracts for commercial models in institutional campaigns for banks, telecommunication operators, and insurance companies, with more organizations using AI-generated visuals for celebrations like Mother's Day, Tabaski, and Ramadan. While AI offers economic advantages, Campbell believes human models can still compete by evolving into content creators or influencers, building an authentic image and community that AI cannot fully replicate. He argues that AI cannot entirely replace human emotion, authenticity, and expression, especially in African societies where cultural values emphasize human interaction and real exper
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Lefaso.net.
Adji Kabré, also known as DJ Authentique, is a Burkinabe DJ who is breaking gender stereotypes in a male-dominated field. Despite holding a law degree and a master's in conflict management and peacebuilding, she chose to pursue her passion for music. She began with slam poetry in high school and later discovered DJing in 2022, investing in her own equipment. Kabré regularly performs at a well-known rooftop bar in Ouaga 2000 and at cultural events. She emphasizes that DJing requires extensive research, understanding the audience, and meticulous preparation, not just playing music. Kabré acknowledges the surprise people often show when seeing a woman behind the decks but remains focused on her work and passion. She learned the craft through self-training and mentorship from other DJs, as Burkina Faso lacks specialized DJ schools. The financial investment in professional equipment is also a significant challenge, as many do not understand the costs involved. Her manager, Rachid Ouédraogo, praises her professionalism and the positive feedback from clients. Kabré believes her femininity has been enhanced, not suppressed, by her career, and she aims to inspire other young women to pursue their passions regardless of gender norms. She advocates for the idea that talent and passion are not gendered, and through her music and slam poetry, she promotes themes of freedom, women's emancipation, patriotism, and civic engagement. Her album "Acapella," released in 2024, reflects these value
Burkina Faso's Ministry of Communication, Culture, Arts, and Tourism has announced the suspension of all beauty pageants across the country. This measure is temporary, pending the development of new regulatory texts to govern the organization of such events. The ministry stated that no authorizations for beauty pageants will be issued during this transitional period. This decision aligns with the current drive to preserve, promote, and enhance the national cultural heritage, in accordance with the ideals of the Popular Progressive Revolution RPP. It also aims to ensure respect for Burkinabe cultural identity, moral and social values, and the ethical principles and human dignity that underpin the society.
The Tour du Faso has been reinstated into the International Cycling Union UCI calendar. The 37th edition of the competition, scheduled from October 30 to November 8, 2026, is now included in the UCI's official calendar, as announced by the Tour du Faso on its Facebook page. This marks the return of the Tour du Faso to the UCI calendar after being removed in 2024, allowing Burkinabe cycling to regain its place among officially recognized UCI competitions.