Kenya and China Strengthen Media Partnership for Economic Growth
Kenya and China are strengthening their media partnership to enhance economic empowerment and collaboration. Discussions led by Kenyan officials are centered on technology transfer, capacity building, and upgrading media infrastructures. The cooperation aims to foster greater cultural understanding between the two nations, focusing on shared priorities such as climate change and digital advancements.
Kenya and China are advancing their partnership in the media sector, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation. Discussions led by Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani from Kenya’s State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications emphasize economic empowerment and knowledge sharing. This effort aligns with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation agenda, which targets areas such as agricultural transformation, MSMEs, housing, healthcare, and the digital economy.
During a meeting with Zhang Zhizhong, China’s Deputy Chief of Mission in Kenya, and other officials, Prof. Kisiang’ani highlighted the need for the media to progress beyond basic reporting, encouraging narratives that foster economic and social transformation in both nations. He stated, “China and Kenya both have a lot to share, be it on matters of cultural diversity in their respective countries but also in terms of access to modern technologies in the media industry, such as Artificial Intelligence.”
Kisiang’ani underscored the importance of mutual information sharing through various media channels, including radio and the internet. He pointed out that China’s significant investments could enhance the facilities and technology of Kenya’s media sector, particularly suggesting that the national broadcaster requires upgraded infrastructure to maintain news quality. He asserted the necessity of having modern equipment in light of rapidly evolving technology.
Additionally, the need for capacity building at the Directorate of Information was discussed, given its transition from traditional writing methods to digital platforms. Minister Counsellor Zhang Zhizhong emphasized the significance of media cooperation as a means to deepen cultural understanding between the two nations, noting Kenya’s emerging status as an economic power in Africa. He remarked, “Kenya is one of the emerging economic powers in Africa. That means we have a huge potential for future collaborations.”
Journalistic collaboration on shared interests such as climate change and cultural diplomacy was also indicated, with KBC and Xinhua reporters expected to engage in joint reporting. KBC CEO Agnes Kalekye acknowledged ongoing technology transfer discussions with Xinhua and noted that the infrastructure needs upgrading for 5G broadcasting, stating, “We are looking at equipment; when you look at our equipment, it’s quite obsolete.”
The diplomatic relations between China and Kenya, which began in 1963, have undergone changes but were eventually re-established in 1978. This partnership in the media sector is poised to foster improved understanding and collaboration between the two countries in the future.
The discussions between Kenya and China to bolster media cooperation signify a notable enhancement in their bilateral relations. With a focus on economic empowerment and the sharing of technological advancements, both nations aim to modernize their media infrastructures. This collaboration promises to deepen cultural ties and enhance mutual understanding, marking a pivotal moment in the diplomatic engagement between Kenya and China, especially as they navigate the complexities of the digital era.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
