China increases control over African media, promotes anti-American messages

JOHANNESBURG—The Chinese communist regime has taken control of media outlets across Africa, restricting access to unbiased news for citizens and using the platforms to spread anti-American propaganda. Two separate studies conducted by experts on China’s activities in Africa, Paul Nantulya from the Africa Center for Strategic Studies in Washington and Joshua Eisenman, a senior fellow at the American Foreign Policy Council, highlight the concerning extent of this propaganda dissemination in the region.

Nantulya’s report reveals how Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-controlled media have infiltrated African news ecosystems, distorting the truth and limiting access to independent information. Eisenman’s research shows that CCP agents have recruited numerous African media personnel to work at prominent Chinese news outlets operating in Africa, including Xinhua, China Global Television Network (CGTN), China Daily, and China Radio International.

These outlets are funded by the CCP and often demand favorable reporting in return. The research also shows that African journalists are being trained and employed by Chinese media organizations, further influencing the narrative in Africa.

The US government’s response to China’s media dominance in Africa has been limited, with budget cuts impacting the operations of Voice of America (VOA) in the continent. The report emphasizes the need for increased efforts from the US to counter China’s influence in African media spaces.

A technician inspects copies of Chinese owned newspaper, China Daily at the printing press in Nairobi, Kenya, in December 2013. (Tony Karumba/AFP via Getty Images)

…