The African Union, AU, has called for stronger cooperation between Africa and China in media, digital innovation, audio-visual production and human capital development.
Permanent Representative of the AU to China, Ambassador Sarjoh Bah, made the call while delivering the opening remarks at the 7th China-Africa Media Forum Cooperation in Beijing.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Bah said Africa-China relations had evolved into a significant strategic partnership based on solidarity, mutual respect and shared development aspirations.
“China and Africa have continued to elevate their partnership to unprecedented heights, transforming a relationship forged in solidarity and mutual support into one of the most consequential strategic partnerships of the twenty-first century,” he said.
Bah said the media had become more than a communication channel, describing it as a strategic tool for development, cultural identity, economic opportunity, and shaping global perceptions.
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“It is therefore imperative that Africa becomes not simply a consumer of information, but a producer, curator and exporter of knowledge, ideas, and paradigms,” he stated.
He urged African and Chinese media institutions to develop stronger partnerships in film, broadcasting, animation, gaming and digital content, saying the creative industry could create jobs, attract investment and strengthen people-to-people relations.
The AU envoy also called for responsible deployment of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, stressing the need to bridge digital divides and ensure innovation remains inclusive and people-centred.
“For Africa, digital transformation represents not merely a technological transition but a development imperative,” Bah said.
He further identified investment in human capital as essential to the future of media cooperation, calling for increased professional exchanges, scholarships, research partnerships, and skills development.
According to him, Africa’s youthful population remains one of the continent’s greatest strategic assets.
“Empowering our youth is not merely a policy choice; it is a strategic necessity,” he said.
Bah urged both sides to use the forum to deepen cooperation in content creation, digital innovation, technological development and talent cultivation.
He noted that the forum was taking place as Africa and China commemorate 70 years of diplomatic relations, with 2026 designated the Year of Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges.
He called on the media to become a stronger force for development, mutual understanding and peace between Africa and China.
