Professor Zhang Genfu of Zhejiang Normal University (ZJNU) has highlighted the importance of collaboration and media exchanges between China and Africa.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of a seminar for journalists from English-speaking African countries in Jinhua, China, Zhang emphasized the role of shared media initiatives in driving forward the modernization goals of both regions.
Zhang, who serves as the Deputy Director of the ZJNU Affairs Committee, pointed to the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in 2024 as a landmark in advancing the partnership between China and African nations. This summit, held in Beijing and attended by leaders from China and 53 African countries, laid out a fresh blueprint for cooperation across various fields, from economy and trade to culture and education. During the summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping introduced 10 partnership initiatives aimed at elevating relations and fostering closer ties between China and Africa.
“China is a nation of action, always delivering on its promises,” Zhang remarked. “In the coming years, I am confident we will see an even deeper connection between China and Africa, with greater cooperation across multiple areas.” He expressed hope that the ongoing media seminar would pave the way for stronger cultural understanding and closer ties between Chinese and African media professionals. He emphasized the seminar’s role in enhancing mutual knowledge and promoting high-quality media development for both sides.
“Through events like this, we can collectively promote and strengthen the media landscape in both China and Africa,” Zhang continued. “By joining forces, we can empower each other toward modernization and create a bright future together.”
The timing of this media seminar, he noted, comes at a moment when global attention is focused on the evolving China-Africa relationship. Reflecting on the FOCAC summit in Beijing, he acknowledged the significance of such a gathering, where leaders came together to outline mutual goals and reinforce the foundation of this long-standing friendship.
The seminar welcomed media representatives from 11 African countries, including Ghana, South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Mauritius, Zambia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Benin, and Nigeria. Zhang highlighted that this group of journalists embodies the spirit of China-Africa cooperation and friendship. These attendees have a unique chance to explore Chinese society, learn about its culture, and see firsthand the progress China has made in areas like technology, economy, and social development.
ZJNU, Zhang shared, has made significant strides in multiple academic fields, including mathematics, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, computer science, and social sciences, ranking in the top 1 percent of global universities in various disciplines. Since its establishment 68 years ago, the university has produced more than 400,000 graduates, many of whom have become influential leaders in their fields. It has also fostered partnerships with 280 academic institutions in over 60 countries, creating a diverse network of global exchange.
Chen Yan, Director of the Foreign Affairs Office of Jinhua City, encouraged the African journalists to make the most of this opportunity to engage with China’s media and culture. “This seminar provides a valuable platform for deepening China-Africa relations through media exchange,” Chen stated. She explained that Jinhua has hosted numerous international journalists this year, offering them insights into the local economy, industry, and culture. “Earlier this year, a prominent Brazilian media group visited Jinhua as part of their ‘Watch China Together’ program, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Brazil,” she shared. This exchange resulted in a series of stories in Brazil that highlighted Jinhua’s unique aspects, from its industries to cultural landmarks.
Chen went on to describe a series of recent media exchange programs held in Jinhua. In May, 28 journalists from 27 African countries visited the city, publishing a total of 72 articles showcasing Jinhua’s vibrant culture and development. In July, the city hosted a media workshop for young professionals from countries involved in the “Belt and Road” Initiative, welcoming 69 journalists from 18 countries. According to Chen, these exchanges are essential to building mutual understanding and promoting the “Belt and Road” vision on a global stage.
Lassana Tunkara, Deputy General Manager of QTV and QRadio in The Gambia, spoke on behalf of the journalists participating in the seminar. Tunkara expressed excitement about the program, titled “Journalism Organization and News Media for Belt and Road Initiative Countries,” noting that it provides a unique opportunity to learn from China’s media experience. He highlighted the seminar’s potential to introduce international best practices to African media, focusing on how news organizations can contribute to global collaboration and development.
“We’re looking forward to exploring the vibrant Chinese media landscape, especially with the rapid evolution of digital and social media transforming how we communicate globally,” Tunkara remarked. “For African media, understanding these trends is crucial as we navigate an increasingly digital world.”
Tunkara also pointed to the value of learning about sustainable business models for media organizations, which he believes will equip African news outlets with strategies to stay competitive in challenging markets. “This program will give us insights into managing and growing media organizations, which will be invaluable as we return to our home countries,” he added.
China’s emphasis on cooperation, especially through media and educational exchanges, reflects its broader vision of fostering ties with Africa on multiple levels. Zhang, Chen, and Tunkara all echoed a shared goal: to use these opportunities as stepping stones for a stronger, more collaborative future. Through media exchanges like this seminar, journalists from both regions can break down stereotypes, broaden their perspectives, and create stories that truly resonate with diverse audiences.
The seminar’s value goes beyond learning alone—it serves as a bridge, connecting African journalists with a new understanding of Chinese society and vice versa. Both sides stand to benefit from this increased understanding, not only in promoting accurate narratives about each other but also in building friendships and partnerships that could endure for decades.
China and Africa, united by a common aim to modernize and improve their respective regions, see the media as a powerful tool in this mission. As these journalists conclude their time in China and return home, they carry not just stories but also valuable experiences and insights that could shape the future of Sino-African relations. Through cooperative efforts like these, China and Africa can continue to write their shared history, one story at a time.
