Chinese narrative about Africa: Quantitative analysis of CGTN's online publications

This article aims to study the portrayal of African countries in online publications of one of the leading internationally focused Chinese media platforms – China Global Television Network (widely known as CGTN). China's increasing economic engagement in Africa, including in investments, infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, and the influx of Chinese migrants reflects its strategic pursuit of tightening Sino-African relations and gaining influence on the continent. Using a quantitative content analysis of CGTN's online news, the study reveals a dual narrative. African countries are depicted in an overall positive manner. However, their need for external aid is emphasized. The author also highlights the need for geographers to pay greater attention to media issues, which could help to better understand and study the anthropogenic landscape in the contemporary world.