Burkina Faso and Chinese Media Company Discuss Broadcasting Cooperation

 Burkina Faso's Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism, Pingdwende Gilbert Ouédraogo, discussed cooperation in digital television, broadcasting, and energy with the leadership of Chinese operator StarTimes, the West African country's ministry announced on August 22.

The meeting took place at StarTimes Group's headquarters in Beijing. CEO Pang Xinjing presented the operator's activities, which operate in approximately 40 African countries. StarTimes provides satellite and digital terrestrial television, offering around 850 TV channels in 20 languages, as well as implementing digitalization and renewable energy projects.

Ouédraogo expressed interest in placing Burkina Faso's national television channels in the StarTimes package and expanding public access to digital television. The sides also discussed potential partnerships with the national broadcaster RTB and the state digital television company SBT.

A StarTimes representative stated readiness to send a team to Burkina Faso for further negotiations and local market research. Ouédraogo noted that the country is seeking to diversify its external partnerships and attract projects that can improve the population's living conditions.

The minister's visit to StarTimes took place as part of the Burkina Faso delegation's participation in the 7th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Media Forum, held in Beijing on August 19–21.

In July, the country's Minister of Digital Transition, Aminata Zerbo Sabane, stated that Burkina Faso's negotiations with satellite internet operator Starlink are progressing, with a decision on the company's possible market entry expected soon.