Raphael Oni, Beijing, China
In a heartening display of international recognition, a renowned Chinese professor has lauded African journalists for their exceptional intelligence and tireless work ethic.
Professor Zhong Xin, a respected scholar of international journalism at Renmin Univerity of China shared her thoughts on the African journalism landscape. “African journalists are incredibly smart and hardworking,” she stated. “Their dedication to storytelling and commitment to truth-seeking is truly admirable.”
Professor Zhong praise is a testament to the growing influence and professionalism of African journalism. Despite facing numerous challenges, African journalists continue to produce high-quality reporting, shedding light on critical issues affecting the continent. She spoke to Diplomats Extra Correspondent at the end of her lecture delivered to the English Speaking journalists currently at the China International Press Communication Center (CIPCC). The Professor’s lecture on “From Ancient DIBAO to Modern China Daily: The Milestone of Chinese Media History” was indeed captivating, this made few journalists to approached her for personal interview.
The professor’s praise stems from her experiences working with African journalists, including two Nigerian journalists who impressed her with their exceptional reporting skills and patience. Professor Zhong Xin singled out, Ikenna Emewu and Fortune Abang, for their exceptional reporting skills and dedication to their craft.
Ikenna Emewu, a 2016 alumnus of the China International Press Communication Center (CIPCC) training program, impressed Professor Zhong with his in-depth coverage of China’s economic dividend. Emewu’s work, which spanned over 100 articles, demonstrated his patience and commitment to storytelling. Fortune Abang, a 2022 CIPCC participant, also earned Professor Zhong’s praise for his engaging and informative reporting. Abang’s active participation in classes and his thoughtful questions showcased his intelligence and passion for journalism.
The CIPCC training program has enabled African journalists to gain valuable insights into China’s development and its cooperation with Africa. The African journalists experiences demonstrate the program’s effectiveness in fostering greater understanding and collaboration between China and Africa. Indeed CIPCC is a gateway to strong media diplomacy between China and Africa.
When asked about countering Western propaganda, Professor Zhong stressed the importance of showcasing facts and truth. “Facts speak louder than words,” she said. “We should be patient and allow the facts to tell the story.”
To effectively promote China’s initiatives, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Professor Zhong recommends African journalists to up their games as they are in the best position to tell the world what China is doing. She recommend producing documentaries and reports showcasing the positive impact of Chinese projects in Africa. Encouraging African media outlets to share their perspectives and experiences with Chinese collaborations. Recognizing that changing perceptions takes time and effort.
Speaking on the impact of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) after 10 years, the Professor said the facts on ground speaks louder than the truth. In the words of Professor Zhong , “ I think that the facts really tells the truth, facts speak louder than words , after 10 years of the building road construction , I think more and more African people now know more and understand more about China, the Real China. “
Launched in 2013 by Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) marks its 10th anniversary, having transformed the global economic landscape. In Africa BRI has boosted economic growth through infrastructure development. As BRI enters its second decade, it continues to reshape global economic dynamics, fostering cooperation, and connectivity among nations.
