South Africa seeks deeper China-Africa media cooperation through digital innovation and AI

South Africa's Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong participated in the 7th Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation, which was held in Beijing from Aug. 19 to 21 under the theme "Share Development Opportunities, Shape the Audio-Visual Future."

This photo taken on Aug. 20, 2026 shows a scene at the 7th Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

The forum brought together government representatives, media organizations and industry stakeholders to explore new opportunities in broadcasting, audio-visual services, digital transformation and content innovation.

Morolong's participation formed part of South Africa's broader efforts to strengthen South Africa-China and China-Africa cooperation in media and communications, while promoting a more balanced representation of Africa and the Global South in the international information environment.

During his visit, Morolong engaged with Chinese government representatives, media institutions, technology companies and African counterparts. Discussions focused on digital innovation, broadcasting technologies, content production, artificial intelligence (AI) and media skills development.

A key priority for South Africa was to strengthen cooperation between African and Chinese media institutions while ensuring that digital transformation contributed to inclusive development.

The country also explored opportunities for collaboration in AI and other emerging technologies, particularly as these tools became increasingly important in content creation, broadcasting, audience engagement and the wider digital economy.

For China and Africa, the growing media and technology partnership came amid broader efforts to strengthen people-to-people exchanges and cooperation across sectors. Advances in digital platforms and AI created new possibilities for media organizations to reach audiences across borders and share diverse perspectives.

The forum therefore provided a platform for stakeholders to consider how technological development could support stronger media partnerships while ensuring that African voices and perspectives received greater representation in the global information environment.

South Africa's participation underscored its commitment to expanding cooperation with China and other African countries in emerging areas of the media sector, with digital innovation, responsible AI and content development emerging as important areas for future collaboration.