China Africa Talk

As the world marks World Environment Day on June 5, this year's theme "Beat Plastic Pollution" highlights the urgent global need to address the environmental and health impacts of plastic waste. China and Africa are among the regions grappling with the widespread effects of plastic pollution. We speak with Ma Jun and Ali-Said Matano to explore the challenges, national efforts, and opportunities for China-Africa cooperation in the mission to combat plastic pollution.

As the host of the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, central China's Hunan Province is gaining fresh attention for its rising influence in China-Africa cooperation. From pioneering industrial transfer models to forging new trade routes and advancing partnerships in agriculture and healthcare, Hunan is stepping up as a vital bridge, helping shape a more connected and prosperous future between China and Africa.

Africa Day, marked each year on May 25, is more than a commemoration—it’s a call to collective prosperity. As Africa navigates its development journey, it also strengthens ties with global partners like China. We speak with Ambassador Rahmat M. Osman, the African Union’s Permanent Representative to China, about the evolving role of the AU in shaping China-Africa cooperation, and how this annual celebration is fueling new momentum in cross-regional collaboration.

Tourism is playing an increasingly vital role in boosting China's economy, with rising domestic travel driving consumption and job creation. As China marks its 15th Tourism Day on May 19, the spotlight also turns to international partnerships, especially with Africa, where growing ties offer fresh potential for two-way tourism growth.

Marking 45 years of diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and China, Zimbabwe's ambassador to China Abigail Shoniwa reflects on the journey of friendship, trust and growing cooperation. In an exclusive interview, she shares insights into how the two nations are building on their strong foundation to pursue broader partnerships in the future.

Kenyan film "Nawi: Dear Future Me" was honored with a Special Jury Award at the 15th Beijing International Film Festival after being shortlisted for the prestigious Tiantan Award, standing out as a compelling voice from Africa. What does such recognition mean for African filmmakers? And how can African and Chinese cinema deepen cultural ties between the two continents? Filmmaker Vallentine Chelluget and Luc Bendza, Chief Representative of the African Film Association in Asia, join us to discuss the significance of this moment and the future of African-Chinese film collaboration.

China and Kenya have elevated their relationship to a Community with a Shared Future for the New Era as Kenyan President William Ruto undertakes his five-day state visit to China from April 22 to 26. This marks Ruto's first official trip to China since taking office in 2022. During talks in Beijing, President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China's commitment to multilateralism and global fairness, while Ruto praised China's stabilizing role and support for the Global South amid growing trade tensions. What outcomes can be expected from this upgraded partnership? How can the Global South unite in response to rising U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty? Liu Baocheng and Peter Kagwanja share their insights.

In April 1955, delegates from 29 Asian and African countries met in Bandung, Indonesia, to tackle pressing issues of peace, security, and economic development. Professor Wang Jinjie and Paul Frimpong reflect on Bandung’s enduring legacy, discuss how its spirit continues to shape Asia–Africa relations, and explore how countries of the Global South can determine their own futures and build lasting collective resilience.

The U.S. has unveiled sweeping new tariffs — including a staggering 145% on Chinese goods and steep duties on African nations like South Africa (30%) and Lesotho (50%). While tariffs on most countries are temporarily paused, a 10 % blanket duty still applies. Could this disruption open the door to deeper China–Africa economic ties? We speak with Victor Gao and Thembisa Fakude to explore the risks — and the opportunities.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has elected its first-ever female president — and she’s also the first from Africa. Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry, a decorated Olympian and sports leader, has made history by becoming the 10th president of the IOC, ushering in a new era of representation and inclusion in global sport.

We explore what this landmark moment means for Africa, women, and the future of the Olympic movement with Thabani Gonye, President of the Zimbabwe Olympic Committee, and Marlene Gadzirayi, the Committee’s CEO.