The China-Africa Institute, under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, has unveiled plans to establish the first museum in China dedicated to African history and culture. This initiative marks a major milestone in promoting cultural exchange between China and Africa.
Mr Ye Hailin, Director of the Institute, announced the plan on Saturday during a workshop titled China-Africa Cooperation in the New Era: Responsibilities of Think Tanks and Media, held in Beijing.
The event was organised by the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC).
According to Ye, the planned museum will celebrate Africa’s rich cultural heritage, featuring artefacts, artworks, and historical accounts that reflect the continent’s diverse traditions and civilisations.
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“We hope the museum will not only serve as an educational hub but also provide a space for dialogue and collaboration between Chinese and African scholars, artists, and communities,” Ye said.
He added that the museum would be open to both local and international visitors, offering a distinct perspective on African history that is often underrepresented in mainstream narratives.
Ye also disclosed plans to establish five China-Africa research centres, a move announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping as part of the 2024 Beijing-Southeast Asia Partnership Actions. One of the centres will be located in South Africa, following successful consultations with the executive academy there.
“We have signed a cooperation agreement, and we expect the first centre to be inaugurated ahead of the G20 Summit in South Africa later this year,” Ye noted, adding that legal negotiations were ongoing.
The initiative will also strengthen media relations through exchange programmes for African journalists, aimed at enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation.
Ye reiterated that these projects underscore China’s ongoing commitment to building stronger ties with African nations through cultural diplomacy and academic collaboration.