China’s National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) initiated a significant three-week media seminar on November 5, 2023, hosting 25 esteemed journalists from Sierra Leone, who represent a variety of media organizations, including Sieraloaded Media.

This event, scheduled to conclude on November 27, aims to recognize the contributions of journalists, promote the sharing of knowledge, and foster stronger collaborative ties between China and Sierra Leone

Yan Ni, Deputy Direral of the International Cooperation Department at NRTA, highlighted China’s expanding presence across radio, television, and online audio-visual media. She underscored the vital role of international partnerships in these areas, emphasizing China’s global expansion in media through collaborations, acquisitions, and content dissemination.

Ni also emphasized the Belt and Road Initiative’s role in supporting media infrastructure investments in partner nations. While acknowledging the stringent government control over media content in China, she outlined the country’s efforts to project soft power by promoting Chinese culture and viewpoints, countering Western media narratives.

By the conclusion of 2022, China had hosted more than 6,600 individuals from 152 developing regions and countries in various training programs, demonstrating their dedication to international cooperation in media development.

Khalil Kallon, Executive Secretary at Sierra Leone’s Independent Media Commission (IMC) and leader of the 2023 seminar team, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. He lauded China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) for hosting the event and extended appreciation to Ambassador Wang Qing of the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone.

Kallon emphasized the critical role of media in upholding Sierra Leone’s democratic principles, fostering national progress, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. He credited the media with shaping the nation’s post-civil war political, economic, and social development.

Additionally, Kallon stressed the substantial contribution of Sierra Leonean media institutions to fostering friendship and cooperation between China and Sierra Leone. He expressed hope that the insights gained from the seminar would benefit both the participants and their colleagues.

Kallon urged organizers to consider future programs in Sierra Leone, emphasizing the urgent need for expanded media development, professional training, and modern broadcasting and printing equipment. He anticipated meaningful discussions during the seminar, envisioning a pathway toward bolstered media capabilities and increased collaboration between the two nations.