While taking part in traditional Chinese cultural activities on Wednesday, African journalists covering the 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing underscored the need for stronger ties between China and African nations in fields such as academics, technology and infrastructure development.

Before attending a news conference at the summit's media center, the journalists participated in a cultural tour that included activities such as learning the ancient technique of cloisonné, painting Peking Opera masks and making traditional Chinese kites.

The activities provided a handson introduction to some of Beijing's intangible cultural heritages.

Ayanda Mdluli, editor of the Daily News in South Africa, made a kite at the media center, which he said he planned to send to his 9-year-old daughter as a gift. Mdluli advocates academic exchanges between China and South Africa and the expansion of specialist exchanges and cooperation in higher education.

"We have more Confucius Institutes in our universities, and also export African studies to Chinese universities as well," he said, emphasizing the potential for collaboration in academics.

Samuel Ayammah, a reporter with the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, highlighted China's support for agricultural development in his country, particularly in combating drought and hunger.

"We need China because we don't have enough facilities and technology," Ayammah said.

Jonathan Marewa, from the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, praised the summit's organization and the media center's facilities, finding the venue easy to navigate. Marewa, along with other African journalists, was impressed by environmentally friendly products that were on display, such as ties and backpacks made from recycled plastic and leather-like items crafted from fruit peels. He said Zimbabwe is also making efforts to protect the environment and conserve natural resources.

Khadar Hassan, a reporter from the Somali National News Agency, expressed interest in the innovative use of recycled materials in various products. "Although I don't usually wear ties, seeing them made from plastic bottles made me want to wear one," Hassan said. He said he hopes the summit will lead to deeper cooperation between China and Somalia, particularly in education, culture and infrastructure.

zhaoyimeng@chinadaily.com.cn