A three-week training and exchange program for francophone African journalists concluded in Beijing, China, on November 5, 2026. The seminar, organized by the China Central International Communication Center (CCIC), brought together media professionals from Gabon, Guinea, Cameroon, Chad, Djibouti, and Réunion Island. Participants engaged in training sessions, field visits, and discussions on Sino-African relations, media landscape changes, and challenges such as digital transformation and disinformation.
The program aimed to enhance professional capacities, facilitate experience sharing, and foster connections among journalists from diverse francophone backgrounds. Chinese representatives commended participants for their commitment, professionalism, and collaborative spirit, reaffirming their willingness to continue joint training initiatives and knowledge exchanges between Chinese and African media professionals.
Guy Ndong Obiang, spokesperson for the Gabonese delegation, expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for the initiative, describing it as an opportunity for professional growth and exposure to new media realities. He noted that the seminar provided a nuanced understanding of China, beyond common stereotypes, and a solid network among francophone colleagues.
The closing ceremony included the official presentation of participation certificates, marking the completion of the training program and various activities. As participants return to their countries, they bring new knowledge and professional contacts, aiming to apply the acquired skills to promote rigorous journalism, aware of international issues and sectoral changes.
The training program covered topics such as Sino-African cooperation, media transformations, and challenges in the digital era. Participants visited various institutions, gaining insights into China's media landscape and journalistic practices. The program also facilitated interactions with Chinese media professionals, enabling the exchange of ideas and best practices.
The initiative demonstrates the growing cooperation between China and Africa in the media sector, fostering people-to-people exchanges and strengthening bilateral relations. By investing in journalist training, China aims to promote a deeper understanding of African perspectives and enhance media collaboration between the two regions.
As the participants return home, they are expected to contribute to the development of more informed and nuanced reporting on international issues, particularly those related to Sino-African cooperation. The program's impact is anticipated to be felt in the participating countries, where journalists will apply their new skills to produce high-quality content.
Key points
- The training program enhanced professional capacities and facilitated experience sharing among francophone African journalists.
- The initiative promotes media cooperation between China and Africa, fostering people-to-people exchanges and strengthening bilateral relations.
- Participants gained new knowledge and professional contacts, aiming to apply the acquired skills to promote rigorous journalism in their respective countries.
