A media forum focused on the role of youth in global governance was held on Tuesday in Johannesburg, South Africa. Hosted by China Media Group (CMG), the event brought together participants from China and Africa to discuss how young people can play an active role in shaping the evolving global agenda, and how international institutions can empower them as key partners in governance and agents of transformative change.
In a letter to the forum, CMG President Shen Haixiong praised the collaborative spirit between Chinese and African youth, highlighting their contributions to critical sectors such as the digital economy and green energy. He also reaffirmed CMG’s commitment to fostering global dialogue through its expansive communication network. “We will share vivid stories of young people from different nations joining hands, helping young people worldwide deepen understanding through the exchange of ideas,” Mr. Shen wrote.
In this regard, Chinese Ambassador to South Africa Wu Peng noted that the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation has consistently prioritized youth issues, launching a range of initiatives aimed at empowering young people and fostering deeper exchanges between the two sides. He also reaffirmed China’s support for South Africa’s G20 presidency, as the summit opens later this month in Johannesburg—marking the first time the G20 is being held on African soil.
Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, former Chairperson of the African Union Commission, described China-Africa cooperation as a “long-standing relationship.” She called for a “skills revolution” to equip Africa’s youth with diverse competencies across sectors.
Representing South Africa’s Ministry of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Mulisa Magidi urged African nations to ensure access to education, skills training, and digital opportunities for young people so they can confidently contribute to the continent’s modernization. He also reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to tackling key social challenges, including women’s employment, gender-based violence, and healthcare.
The event attracted approximately 100 representatives from political, business, academic, and media sectors from both China and South Africa. Participants agreed that youth are not just leaders of tomorrow but vital partners of today, and that their participation is a strategic investment in global stability, progress, and peace.
