Being a Keynote Address delivered at the Internationall Symposium on the Study of African Languages and Cultures 2025, with the theme "Language without Borders: China and Africa Shaping a New Narrative for the Global South", organized by the Centre for Research in Nigerian Languages, Translation and Folklore, Bayero University Kano in collaboration with the School of African Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University and the Department of Kiswahili, University of Nairobi, held at Bayero University Kano, Nigeria, on 30th June – 1st July 2025.
BRIDGING CULTURES, BUILDING FUTURES: IMPROVING CHINA-AFRICA RELATIONS THROUGH TRANSLATION
By
Salisu Ahmad Yakasai, FLAN
Department of Nigerian Languages
Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
syakasai2013@gmail.com
(+234) 8035073537
Abstract
In recent years, China and Africa have
strengthened their economic and diplomatic ties, leading to increased
collaboration in various fields. However, language and cultural barriers pose
significant challenges to effective communication and cooperation. This paper
explores the role of translation in bridging cultural divides and building a
stronger future for China/Africa relations. We examine the challenges and
opportunities of translation in facilitating trade, education, diplomacy, and
cultural exchange between China and Africa. Our analysis highlights the
importance of culturally sensitive translation practices, technology, and
collaboration in promoting mutual understanding and benefit. We conclude that
translation is a critical component of China/Africa relations, enabling both
sides to communicate effectively, build trust, and foster cooperation.
Introduction
I feel greatly honored to be
invited to deliver a keynote address at the International Symposium on the
Study of African Languages and Cultures with the theme “Language without
Borders: China and Africa Shaping a New Narrative for the Global South. I wish
to thank the organizers of this Symposium for the honor done to me. It is
gladdening to note that the organizers of the Symposium, in a rare show of a
sense of patriotism brought together intellectuals from various parts of the
world to focus on the very important subject that is central to the corporate
existence of our nations.
Today, we gather to discuss a vital
topic that has significant implications for global relations "Improving
China-Africa relations through translation". As we navigate the
complexities of our increasingly interconnected world, we must also have in
mind that effective communication is crucial for fostering cooperation and
understanding.
Similarly, historical trajectories of
nations are often preserved and interpreted through language. As such, translation
plays a critical role in this process by enabling access to cultural,
historical, and ideological narratives across linguistic boundaries. It thus
serves as a democratic tool in the reconstruction of shared global heritage.
Consequently, the growing relationship
between China and Africa has significant implications for global politics,
economics, and culture. As both sides seek to strengthen their ties, effective
communication is crucial for building trust, resolving conflicts, and promoting
cooperation. This can only be achieved through effective translation.
Therefore, translation plays a vital role in facilitating communication, but it
also poses significant challenges.
It is in the light of the above, this
paper explores the role of translation in improving China-Africa relations,
highlighting the role of translation, its challenges and opportunities, and
also the strategies for the effective translation. Finally, the paper proffered
some recommendations which if effectively implemented will go a long way in
improving and enhancing the existing China-Africa relation.
The Role of Translation in Building a Strong Cultural Diplomacy
Translation is more than just a
linguistic exercise; it is a bridge that connects cultures, facilitates
dialogue, and promotes mutual understanding. According to the purview of some
prominent scholars, translation can be described under five (5) major areas, as
follows:
In the field of general linguistics,
translation can be defined according to Catford (1965) as “the replacement of
textual material in one language (SL) by equivalent textual material in another
language (TL).” While, according to the functionalist perspectives, Nord (2018)
asserts that “translation is a purposeful activity carried out in a
socio-cultural context.”
Similarly, under cultural
perspective, translation is considered as “not just a linguistic act but a
cultural transfer that involves the translator’s interpretation and
creativity.” (Bassnett, 2002).
In the modern theoretical view,
Munday (2016) describe translation as “the process of producing a text, in a
target setting and language, which is intended to convey the meaning of a source
text in another language and culture.”
Whereas, in the practical and professional
angle translation is seen as “a process that consists in reproducing in the
receptor language the closest natural equivalent of the source-language message
” Nida and Taber (1969).
Going by the above definitions,
translation can be identified as a very important tool which if properly used
can accurately convey the nuances of language and culture, translation enables
us to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers, paving the way for meaningful
collaborations.
Consequently, cultural diplomacy refers
to the strategic use of cultural exchange through language, ideas, art,
education, and traditions to promote mutual understanding among diverse nations.
It is a key component of soft power, where influence is exerted through
attraction rather than coercion (Nye, 2004).
Translation functions as a vital
mechanism within cultural diplomacy. It enables the dissemination of
literature, policy narratives, historical accounts, and local expressions,
thereby opening up spaces for deeper intercultural engagement. Both high culture
(such as classical literature and fine arts) and popular culture (such as media
and everyday expressions) are made accessible to foreign audiences through
effective translation strategies (Cull, 2008).
Therefore, Cultural diplomacy enables a
country to project its values and identity to international audiences,
fostering goodwill, collaboration, and cultural affinity. In essence, translation plays a vital role in facilitating
effective communication and cooperation between China and Africa. Here are some
key roles of translation in this context:
1.
Facilitating communication
2.
Promoting trade and investment
3.
Enhancing diplomatic relations
4.
Supporting education and research
5.
Fostering economic development
Challenges
in China-Africa Relations: Translation as an Opportunity
for
Improvement
Despite the growing importance of
China-Africa relations, several challenges are identified to hinder effective
communication in that regard. Some of which include:
1.
Language Barriers: The diversity of languages spoken in Africa and
China can create significant obstacles to understanding.
2. Cultural Differences: Different cultural contexts and values
can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.
3. Historical and Political Factors: Historical and political
factors can influence perceptions and relationships.
To overcome these challenges and many more, and improve China-Africa
relations, we can leverage translation in several ways. An essential aspect of
strengthening China-Africa relations through translation is the effective
transmission of Chinese philosophical and cultural values. This is vividly clear in the translation of Key Concepts
in Chinese Thought and Culture (Zhen, (eds.) (2019) into Hausa – Rayuwa da Falsafa cikin Tunanin Al’ummar
Sinawa (Yakasai, 2022). The series offers a rich repository of terms and expressions that
are foundational to Chinese philosophy, humanistic values, and modes of
thought. Compiled by over 100 distinguished scholars from both China and the
West, each volume features 300 core entries that illuminate the intellectual
and cultural traditions of China.
These concepts are not merely linguistic entries - they represent
the philosophical essence and worldview of the Chinese people, past and
present. With carefully selected citations from Chinese historical texts, the
series serves as a bridge for Western, and by extension, African academia to
access, interpret, and engage with Chinese civilization more deeply and
accurately.
For African scholars, translators, and cultural practitioners,
engaging with such concepts through translation is a crucial step toward
genuine intercultural dialogue. This initiative not only enriches the African
understanding of China but also contributes to a more informed and balanced
global discourse. In this way, key Chinese concepts become instrumental in
building mutual respect, intellectual reciprocity, and cultural literacy- cornerstones
for sustainable China-Africa cooperation. One of the strategies that will
continue to energize this bond of cooperation is through the Nigeria-China
Education Exchange programme:
The
Nigeria-China Bilateral Education Exchange Program - A Way Forward
The Nigeria-China Bilateral Education Exchange Program is a
multifaceted initiative aimed at enhancing educational collaboration, cultural
understanding, and human capital development between the two nations, China
Scholarship Council (2024). This partnership encompasses scholarships,
institutional linkages, language education, and cultural exchange programs,
reflecting a shared commitment to fostering mutual growth and understanding.
Some of the key Components of the Nigeria-China Education Exchange are, but not
limited to:
1. Scholarships and Academic Opportunities
2. Confucius Institutes and Language Education
3. Institutional Partnerships and Academic
Collaboration
4. Cultural Exchange and People-to-People
Engagement
5. Vocational Training and Capacity Building
The Nigeria-China Bilateral Education Exchange Program has become
a significant platform for promoting educational collaboration and mutual
cultural understanding between the two nations. Through scholarships, sponsored
by the Chinese government and administered by the China Scholarship Council
- over 1,700 Nigerian students have benefitted since the 1960s. These
scholarships, which cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, offer
Nigerians access to quality education and facilitate people-to-people contact,
thereby laying the groundwork for sustainable academic and diplomatic ties, China
Scholarship Council (2024).
A central element of this educational partnership is the promotion
of language and culture through Confucius Institutes, such as those at the
Universities of Nsukka, Ife, Lagos Kwara State University and BUK. These
institutes serve as cultural hubs, offering Chinese language instruction,
cultural festivals, and exchange opportunities that foster deeper intercultural
dialogue and understanding (FMPRC, 2024). Furthermore, collaborative academic
programs like the “China-Africa 20+20 University Cooperation” initiative have
encouraged joint research and institutional networking. These efforts not only
enhance intellectual exchange but also serve as conduits for translating key
Chinese cultural and philosophical concepts to African contexts, enhancing
cross-cultural literacy.
Beyond formal education, vocational training and cultural exchange
programs, including Chinese film festivals and traditional celebrations in
Nigeria, contribute to soft power diplomacy and bilateral engagement, The
Guardian Nigeria (2024); Chidiebere and Hui (2019). These initiatives
illustrate how education and translation work hand in hand to bridge cultures
and build futures, offering a model for Sino-African cooperation grounded in
mutual respect, capacity building, and cultural fluency. Translation, in this
context, becomes not only a linguistic activity but a vehicle for understanding
values, perspectives, and aspirations.
Looking ahead, continued investment in educational partnerships,
expansion of scholarship opportunities, and deepening of cultural exchanges
will further solidify the bilateral relationship. Emphasizing mutual respect
and shared benefits. This can be applied in fostering a better China-Africa
collaboration by:
i.
Cultural exchange programs:
Translation can facilitate a broader China-Africa cooperation through
identified cultural exchange programs with other African countries, enabling
artists, writers, and intellectuals to share their work and ideas.
ii. Economic cooperation: China-Africa cooperation can be enhanced
through accurate translation of business documents, contracts, and agreements which
are keys in facilitating trade and investment.
iii. Diplomatic relations: Translation can enhance China-Africa diplomatic
relations by ensuring that messages are conveyed accurately and respectfully.
iv. Education and research: Translation can promote academic
collaboration, enabling rese archers to share knowledge and ideas. Already, the
long existing bilateral education exchange programme between China and Nigeria
is an example in that direction.
Strategies for Effective Translation, Best
Practices and Opportunities
Strategies for Effective Translation
To maximize the benefits of translation, effective use of
strategies is crucial for fostering meaningful understanding and mutual cooperation.
This goes beyond lexical equivalence and accurate transfer, but also involves ideological,
historical and cultural meanings. The most important strategy here is dynamic
equivalence, which highlights proper conveyance of intended meaning of a source
text effectively, rather than following strictly to its lexical forms (Nida,
1964). This approach is highly effective in diplomatic, literary and
intercultural communications, where emotional and contextual tones often
outweigh literal accuracy.
Another important strategy is collaborative translation practices which
involve linguists, subject matter experts, and native speakers to help ensure
both linguistic precision and cultural relevance. The integration of
computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, while valuable for improving
productivity and consistency, must be complemented by human interpretation to
maintain nuance and contextual depth (Bowker & Fisher, 2010). In sum,
effective translation in international cooperation hinges on a strategic blend
of linguistic expertise, cultural intelligence, and technological support, all
of which are vital for building sustainable and respectful intercultural
relationships.
Furthermore, cultural adaptation, where translators are allowed to
localize content in a source language to suit the socio-cultural context of the
target audience, is yet another strategy for effective translation. However, this
process requires substituting culturally specific and linguistic figures (idioms
or metaphors) with equivalent expressions that are comprehensible and
appropriate within the target culture (Newmark, 1988). In the China-Africa
context, where vast cultural differences exist, such adaptation enhances
receptivity and minimizes the risk of misinterpretation. Consistent
terminological management is also essential, particularly in technical or
institutional texts, where ambiguity can hinder policy implementation or
academic collaboration (Baker, 1992).
Best Practices for Translation
High quality translation requires more than linguistic fluency; it
necessitates adherence to established best practices that ensure accuracy,
consistency, and cultural appropriateness (Yakasai, 2019a). One foundational
best practice is pre-translation preparation, which involves understanding the
source material’s purpose, audience, and context. This allows the translator to
make informed decisions on tone, register, and terminology (Munday, 2016). Clarity
about the target audience, whether governmental, academic, or the public, it guides
the translator in maintaining the communicative intent of the original text.
Contextual and cultural sensitivity is another best practice
critical to intercultural translation. This includes recognizing and
appropriately rendering idiomatic expressions, metaphors, and culturally loaded
terms that may not have direct equivalents in the target language (House,
2015). Translators working between Chinese and African languages must therefore
cultivate bicultural literacy and consult cultural mediators or advisors when
needed.
Equally important is the use of quality control mechanisms such as
peer reviews, back translation, and proofreading. These measures help ensure
fidelity and clarity, especially in official or technical documents. Adopting
terminology management systems, maintaining style guides, and using translation
memory tools can also enhance consistency across multiple translations
(Gouadec, 2007). Ultimately, there should be ethical considerations (including fidelity
to the source text and transparency in adaptation), which must underpin all
practices. By adhering to these principles, translation becomes a powerful
bridge that not only conveys information but also respects and preserves
cultural identities.
Opportunities of Translation
Translation offers a wide range of opportunities, particularly in
the context of strengthening China-Africa relations. At its core, translation
facilitates intercultural communication, enabling people of different
linguistic backgrounds to engage in meaningful dialogue, trade, diplomacy, and
education (Venuti, 1995). In an increasingly globalized world, translation
serves as a bridge that connects societies, making knowledge, policies, and
values accessible across cultural and national boundaries.
One of the most significant opportunities lies in the field of
education and research exchange. Translation allows African scholars to access
Chinese academic resources and vice versa, fostering collaborative research,
innovation, and shared knowledge production (Cronin, 2003). Translated literary
works, historical documents and philosophical texts help in deepening cultural
understanding and appreciation between China and Africa. This also helps in
cultivating mutual respect and reducing cultural stereotyping. This
intercultural literacy, driven by translation, plays a key role in soft power
diplomacy and global citizenship development.
Translation also opens up economic and professional opportunities.
As China expands its investments and development initiatives to more African
countries particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative, (Yakasai, 2019b), there
is a growing demand for skilled translators and interpreters who can navigate
both languages and cultures. This creates employment, enhances local
capacities, and promotes entrepreneurship in language services (Pym, 2010).
Furthermore, translation supports local content creation, indigenous language
preservation, and multilingual communication strategies that promote
inclusivity in development processes.
Conclusion
There is no doubt translation is the most powerful tool for
improving China-Africa relations. By bridging cultural and linguistic divides,
we can foster greater understanding, cooperation, and mutual benefit. Therefore,
translation here serves as a critical
component of China-Africa relations, because it enables both sides to
communicate effectively, build trust, and foster cooperation. By addressing the
challenges and opportunities of translation, we can promote mutual
understanding and benefit, ultimately building a stronger future for
China-Africa relations. Let us work together to harness the potentials of translation and
build a brighter future for our nations and peoples.
Recommendations
1. Establish Translation Centers and
invest more in Translation Trainings. The Established translation centers in China
and Africa should be saddled with the responsibility of mounting training programs for translators and interpreters to
develop their skills and expertise. This will go a long way in facilitating and
promoting translation education, cultural exchange and cooperation thereby
enhancing investment.
2.
Develop Translation
Guidelines: Since there are many culturally sensitive
issues involved in translation practice, there is a dear need for providing guidelines for the
betterment of the translation process. These guidelines must take into
consideration and account for cultural nuances and
differences.
3.
Leverage
technology to enhance translation efficiency and accuracy. Technology has come
to stay in all activities of our daily lives. As such, translators must
leverage the potentialities in the technology sector to enhance their capabilities
and expertise in the field of translation.
4. Promote positive perceptions of Chinese
culture, people, and policies among African nations to foster collaborative
initiatives and mutual development agendas. This will contribute to peaceful
coexistence by managing cultural and political differences and in turn support
long-term partnerships grounded in respect, equity, and shared prosperity between
Chinese and African nations.
By implementing some of these
recommendations and many more, we can unlock the full potentials of translation and strengthen
China-Africa relations. This will certainly promote
our mutual understanding and harness the benefits of our collaborations.
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