INTRODUCTION: The China Global South Project (CGSP) is seeking dedicated individuals and organizations passionate about shedding light on climate issues related to China’s development in Africa. We are looking for contributions in the form of analysis, ideas, reports, and impactful stories 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.
WHAT KIND OF CONTENT?
- Infrastructure and Energy Projects: Examine the environmental implications of Chinese-led infrastructure projects, such as dams, power plants, and transportation networks, on African ecosystems, both positive and negative. Uncover potential issues related to pollution, deforestation, land degradation, and displacement of local communities.
- Resource Extraction and Land Use: Analyze the environmental consequences of Chinese investments in extractive industries across Africa. Explore 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 industries and manufacturing in contributing to air, water, and soil pollution in Africa. Highlight the challenges faced by local communities, the measures taken by governments to address pollution, and the potential for collaboration between China and Southeast Asian nations in waste management.
- Climate Change and Adaptation: Uncover Africa’s vulnerability to climate change and the role of Chinese investments 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: Chinese technology and investment both play critical roles in facilitating Africa’s transition to carbon-free energy. Introduce readers to the various Chinese initiatives underway that are making a meaningful difference in mitigating the effects of climate change in Africa.
WHO SHOULD APPLY? If you are a journalist, scholar, writer, activist, content creator, or practitioner with expertise in the region’s environmental 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 njenga@chinaglobalsouth.com. 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, please don’t hesitate to contact CGSP Africa Climate Editor Njenga Ndekere at njenga@chinaglobalsouth.com.
Please note that due to the number of pitches we receive, our responses may take up to two weeks on a first-come-first-served basis. Ideally, you should get feedback within 14 days of submitting your pitch.
Only African contributors will be considered for this opportunity.
Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
