INTRODUCTION: The China-Global South Project (CGSP) is seeking dedicated individuals passionate about shedding light on energy issues and projects related to China’s power sector development in Africa. We are looking for contributions in the form of analysis, ideas, reports, and impactful stories around such energy projects and issues that will raise awareness in this crucial area.
China’s rising influence and rapid economic growth have brought both benefits and challenges to Africa. While economic partnerships have flourished, it is essential to examine the social and environmental consequences of these developments and highlight the voices of those impacted.
Please note: All the stories need to be based on this map, which explains some of the energy projects in African countries where there is some level and form of Chinese involvement.
Here is the map address online: https://africaenergy.chinaglobalsouth.com/?maps=true
WHAT KIND OF CONTENT?
- Infrastructure and Energy Projects: Examine the implications of Chinese-led power plants on African ecosystems, both positive and negative. What are the benefits of these projects, such as reforestation and afforestation, road connectivity, accessible services like healthcare and education etc? Also, are there any potential issues related to them, such as pollution, deforestation, land degradation, and displacement of local communities without compensation etc?
- Resource Extraction and Land Use: Analyze the location and alignment of these Chinese energy investments to extractive industries across Africa while also exploring the impacts on forests, biodiversity, water resources, and indigenous rights, with a focus on mining, logging, and agriculture.
- Pollution and Waste Management: Examine the role of Chinese energy projects meant for industries and manufacturing and how they contribute positively to the host communities by way of job creation, access to health services etc. Also, what are the innovative solutions for sustainable and renewable energies that don’t have the waste and environmental impact that fossil fuels do are the Chinese bringing to these communities? On the flipside, are there air, water, and soil pollution concerns? Highlight these benefits and challenges faced by local communities and the measures taken by governments to address any pollution and waste management issues that may be present.
- Climate Change and Adaptation: Uncover African countries’ vulnerability to climate change and the role of Chinese energy projects and policies in exacerbating or mitigating these challenges. Assess adaptation strategies, renewable energy initiatives, and opportunities for regional cooperation.
- Showcase the contributions of Chinese climate initiatives: What are the upsides and downsides of adopting Chinese technology to facilitate Africa’s transition to carbon-free energy? What are the various Chinese energy initiatives underway that are making a meaningful difference in mitigating the effects of climate change in African countries?
WHO SHOULD APPLY? If you are a journalist, scholar, writer, activist, content creator, or practitioner with expertise in the region’s energy issues, we invite you to share your research, personal experiences, theories, and stories. We strongly encourage women, young people, and indigenous groups to contribute and participate in this important dialogue.
CONTENT GUIDELINES:
- Formats: reports, ideas or opinion articles, feature stories, photo essays, or multimedia content
- Content should be original, well-researched, and fact-checked, providing new insights or perspectives on the topic.
- Reports and articles should range from 600 – 1,200 words.
- Language: English is preferred, but exceptional pieces in local languages will also be considered (with an English translation).
HOW TO APPLY?
- Send a short pitch of no more than three paragraphs to [email protected]. In the pitch, briefly explain your story idea, your preliminary research, and how you plan to execute it: what format, what kind of sources you will talk to, what places you will visit, and when you can send the first draft.
- Tell us a bit about your background, either with a resume or a LinkedIn profile.
- Please share 2-3 samples of your previous work.
COMPENSATION: We pay $0.25 per word for published contributions. Variations depending on the format and amount of reporting required will be discussed individually with the contributors.
GOT QUESTIONS? If you have any questions or would just like to find out more information, please don’t hesitate to contact CGSP Africa Climate Editor Njenga Hakeenah: [email protected].
Only African and Chinese contributors will be considered for this opportunity.
Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
