China and Africa are strengthening their collaboration in audiovisual production, with a focus on increasing exchanges of television series and programs. This was highlighted during the 6th Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation and China-Africa Think Tank High-level Dialogue in Beijing.
Representatives from government, radio and TV stations, as well as experts, expressed expectations for enhanced cooperation.
The National Radio and Television Administration of China reported that by the end of last year, 237 audiovisual works and 180 agricultural programs had been translated into seven languages and broadcast in Africa. Cao Shumin, the administration’s director, announced that China has signed agreements with 28 African countries to bolster cooperation in radio, television, and film.
To further support this collaboration, a range of policies has been put in place. These policies encourage joint production of programs, TV series, and shows by companies from both China and Africa, fund short-film competitions, and promote the exchange of programs.
Recently, leading Chinese streaming platforms such as iQiyi and Youku have dedicated special sections to showcase TV series, documentaries, and shows featuring China-Africa content. For instance, a Swahili-dubbed version of the Chinese TV series “Welcome to Milele” premiered on African TV stations and online video-sharing platforms, reaching audiences in Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, and Uganda.
The series depicts the story of Chinese medical teams working in Africa.
President Ayanda Hollow of TV BRICs Africa expressed confidence in the future exchanges and cooperation between media groups from China and Africa. He mentioned that last year, his channel introduced the popular Chinese sci-fi series “Three-Body,” produced by Tencent, with a positive reception from African audiences who have requested it to be rebroadcast this year.
Furthermore, Hollow is keen on collaborating with its Chinese counterparts to produce joint products. He also hopes to see programs produced by Africans aired in China, emphasizing the desire to tell their stories with China’s support.
Hollow noted that many young people in Africa use online video-sharing platforms like TikTok to showcase their talent and share stories. He anticipates increased cooperation between China and Africa in media technologies, especially given that more than half of Africa’s population is under 30 years old and interested in utilizing the internet for storytelling and expression.
