The Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Malam Jibrin Ndace, has announced that the organization is collaborating with China to begin broadcasting in Mandarin, the official language of China.
Ndace disclosed this on Saturday evening in Abuja during a dinner organized by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) group of ambassadors and High Commissioners.
He explained that this initiative aims to enable VON to reach a vast audience in China and promote cultural exchange between Nigeria, China, and Africa. According to Ndace, the collaboration will also help consistently share positive stories about Nigeria and Africa, thereby promoting a positive narrative about the nation and the continent.
“I am currently exploring opportunities for VON to begin broadcasting in Mandarin, courtesy of our partnership with the Chinese government. This collaboration will enable us to reach a vast audience in China and promote cultural exchange between our nations,” Ndace said. “Let us take control of our narrative and let the world respect us. We need to be intentional about creating a positive narrative about Nigeria and Africa.”
Ndace suggested establishing a partnership between SADC countries and VON, emphasizing that Africans share a common destiny and should work together to create a unified narrative that showcases the best of Africa. He expressed willingness to offer VON’s platform to all SADC countries interested in working together to tell positive stories about Africa.
“We can offer our platforms to journalists from SADC countries to share their stories, and vice versa. We can work together to promote positive narratives about our continent, encourage travel within the African continent, and foster cultural exchange. We need to promote cultural exchange programs, educational initiatives, and economic partnerships that foster cooperation and understanding,” he added.
Ndace highlighted Africa’s abundant beauty and diversity, urging Africans to celebrate their cultures, achievements, and strengths. He called for unity in promoting a positive narrative about the continent and working toward a brighter future for all Africans.
Also speaking at the event, Angolan Ambassador to Nigeria, José Zau, marked the 32nd anniversary of SADC, highlighting the strong bonds of solidarity and cooperation among its 16 member-states. He noted that the chairmanship of SADC had transferred from President Joe Mrosso of Mozambique to President Emerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, who would focus on promoting innovation to unlock opportunities for sustainable economic growth and development.
Zau emphasized SADC’s progress in promoting economic growth, social justice, and human development despite challenges like the fight against apartheid in South Africa and the consolidation of independence. He also expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s support and cooperation with SADC and reiterated the bloc’s commitment to lasting peace and security in the region.
The Pathway News reports that the 16-member SADC is a robust African subregional bloc focusing on industrialization, food security, adventure tourism, and emerging as a stable and effective bloc in international relations.
