As China continues to expand its media presence across Africa, it is encountering growing resistance from local populations and media professionals. Beijing’s strategy involves a complex network of state-controlled platforms, partnerships with local news outlets, and journalist training programs designed to shape favorable narratives about China’s role on the continent.
Researcher Mitchell Gallagher describes this as a “war for Africa’s media soul,” noting that China aims to control perceptions and portray itself as a benevolent partner providing resources and assistance to African nations. While this approach has yielded some success with favorable coverage in certain media outlets, Gallagher observes “a nascent backlash against pro-Beijing reporting in countries across the continent.”
China’s media strategy includes substantial investments in platforms like China Global Television Network (CGTN) Africa and alliances with regional stations. The Chinese Communist Party has officially included “media warfare” in its policy since 2003, with a specific focus on Africa beginning in 2008 when it committed over $6 billion to enhance its global media presence.
Key components of China’s media influence include:
- Xinhua News Agency, which maintains 37 offices across Africa—more than any other media organization
- StarTimes platform offering affordable satellite television packages with news channels controlled by the CCP
- Recruitment programs that invite thousands of African journalists, bloggers and influencers to China for tours and training
- Hiring African media personalities to lend credibility to Chinese messaging
Despite these efforts, resistance is growing. In Ghana, officials have expressed concerns about Chinese media cooperation agreements with local outlets. Kenyan journalists are increasingly investigating the true costs of Chinese investments, while South African media watchdogs warn about threats to press freedom that accompany economic promises.
As African media consumers become more sophisticated and desire for independent journalism grows, China’s carefully crafted narrative is facing increased scrutiny across the continent.
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.
