Panellists discuss Technology Empowering Modernisation: New Drivers for China-Africa Innovation Cooperation, from left: Professor Peter Baur, Bradley Bordiss, Karlind Govender, and Dr Rutendo Hwindingwi.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
The main focus of “China in Spring Time” event hosted by the China Media Group (CMG) was for China and Africa to collaborate and share their growth within technology. The event was hosted at the Cape Heritage Museum at the Castle of Good Hope on Tuesday.
The event brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss how China's technological growth can develop Africa with regards to artificial intelligence (AI) and how their electronics may do the same.
China in Spring Time showcased the country's rapid growth in AI and technology, including their robotics, by playing a video of their robots taking part in an ancient sacred practice of martial arts. This goes to show that the robots are capable of tasks that require a lot of movement. Furthermore, the technology could be used for healthcare, education and any service needed across the world.
'China in Springtime: China's Development Opportunities for the World' CMG event hosted in Cape Town.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
Conversations throughout the event discussed the affordability and scalability of China’s technology as an advantage for African nations. During a panel discussion Dr Rutendo Hwindigwi compared the doctor to patient ratio between Africa and the rest of the world.
“The scale of our country generally is supposed to be 1 to 1,000; in Africa the average is 1 to 10,000.”
Technology, particularly the likes of which is found in China, could help bridge that gap.
Shen Haixiong, vice minister of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and president of CMG delivered video remarks.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
Shen Haixiong, vice minister of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and president of CMG delivered video remarks.
During his remarks, Shen highlighted the successful conclusion of the The 2026 Two Sessions, which spotlight the policies and priorities shaping China's future.
Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces Les Govender said China's zero tariff agreement which comes into effect on May 1 would be warmly received in Africa.
"We welcome the announcement of the 'Zero Tariffs' that will come into effect from May 1; that will not only benefit South Africa but the other 52 countries on the continent and we are grateful for that. We hope that China will bring industries so that we can create more jobs, as we all know that unemployment is our biggest challenge," he said.
Govender also emphasised the improvement of South Africa-China relations thanks to Tuesday's initiative.
Deputy Chairperson of South Africa's National Council of Provinces Les Govender.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
IOL CEO Viasen Soobramoney addresses the gathering at the Castle of Good Hope.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
IOL CEO Viasen Soobramoney addressed the gathering, saying: "What makes this partnership truly significant, is a shared commitment based on mutual respect and learning across civilisation. South Africa and China are two nations on different journeys, both defined by resilience, renewal and progress."
Soobramoney said through the storytelling of media giants like CMG and IOL, the Global South has an opportunity to tell its own stories, and by working together, deepen cultural understanding and shape the global narrative.
"The opportunity is very clear for us; we need to deepen collaboration in digital media and content creation, and youth development will form a core pillar of this collaboration.
"South Africa and China may be separated by distance, but we are united by a belief in progress, dignity and possibility," Soobramoney said.
"As we gather here in the spirit of Spring, we are reminded that every season of growth begins with a simple powerful idea and together we can achieve far more that we can do alone."
IOL CEO Viasen Soobramoney (left), with China Media Group Africa Bureau Director Song Jianing.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
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