A Shared Path to Prosperity

China’s history and cultural heritage is marked by profound wisdom, innovation and technological advancements. The ancient Silk Road exemplified China’s commitment to sharing its vast reservoir of knowledge and skills developed over millennia. And today, China is a shining example of the transformation of a poor nation into the world’s second-largest economy that is expected to become the largest. This transformation has been driven by a combination of human, natural and geographic resources, resulting in a quantum leap in technological, infrastructural and economic prowess.

China’s contemporary vision of development, embodied in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), draws inspiration from the ancient Silk Road. The BRI is a monumental programme through which China seeks to share its development and remarkable progress, which it aims to carry forward via the concept of “new quality productive forces.” These forces signify China’s commitment to harnessing its advancements in technology, innovation, and industrial capacity to promote global development. One region that stands to benefit immensely from this initiative is Africa.

Growing bonds

Take South Africa, for example. The energy-conscious nation is already reaping the benefits of Chinese advancements in new energy technology and expertise. China’s progress in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, aligns perfectly with South Africa’s goals of reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing energy sustainability. The collaboration between China and South Africa in the energy sector shows how China’s technological prowess can be used to address critical challenges in Africa.

China’s space programme, highlighted by the recent successful landing of Chang’e 6 spacecraft on the far side of the moon, demonstrates its growing capabilities in space exploration. This achievement showcases not only China’s technological advancements, but also its willingness to share these breakthroughs with Africa. By collaborating with African nations on space-related projects, China is fostering a partnership that extends beyond terrestrial boundaries, symbolising a shared quest for knowledge and progress.

Space cooperation with Africa is an important aspect of the BRI. Agricultural mapping and surveys by satellites is assisting farming and agriculture in Tunisia. China’s BeiDou Navigation Satellite System is a high-precision location-based service which has surpassed other global navigation systems. China is committed to building Africa’s own space exploration capacity.

The BRI has made significant inroads into Africa, with 52 African countries and the African Union Commission engaged in BRI projects. These projects are creating much-needed infrastructure and technological logistics across the continent. The tangible outcomes of the BRI in Africa are impressive: About 100,000 km of roads, 10,000 km of railway, 1,000 bridges, 100 ports, and numerous hospitals, schools and stadiums have been constructed, vastly improving the quality of life for millions.

China’s trade with African countries is approaching the $300 billion mark, highlighting the deepening economic ties between the two regions. The youth of Africa, 70 percent of whom are under the age of 30, view China as the most important international partner for their countries. This sentiment is reinforced by the significant investments made by Chinese companies like Huawei, CHN Energy, and Hisense in human resource development through knowledge transfer and skills development.

Huawei’s “Seeds for the Future” programme selects young talents from around the world to participate in short-term training, global competitions, and alumni activities centred around digital technology. 

Unlike the imperialist mindset of Western nations, China’s approach to engagement with African nations is marked by respect, inclusivity and a win-win philosophy. This policy of mutual benefit has delivered substantial dividends, fostering strong, fruitful and comprehensive cooperation and partnerships. The increasing face-to-face and people-to-people interactions between Chinese and African citizens are further strengthening these bonds, paving the way for deeper cultural and economic integration.

China has rapidly accelerated its high-quality manufacturing and industrial sectors, positioning itself among the top knowledge economies globally. It has taken the lead in the new energy market and electric vehicle production, showcasing its commitment to clean, green and environmentally friendly progress. China’s advancements in these areas are not only benefitting its domestic economy, but also providing valuable lessons and technologies that can be adopted by African nations.

Synergetic relationship

The growing bond between China and Africa holds the promise of accelerated development for the African continent. The integration of Africa through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area and Agenda 2063 is gaining momentum, and the BRI is playing a crucial role in this process. By providing the necessary infrastructure, technology and expertise, China is helping Africa to realise its development goals.

The mutual benefits of this partnership are evident. African nations gain access to advanced technologies, improved infrastructure and increased trade opportunities, while China strengthens its global economic influence and opens new markets for its products and services. This symbiotic relationship is indicative of the potential of collaborative development in the 21st century.

China’s new quality productive forces are a driving force behind the country’s rapid modernisation and its ability to share the fruits of its development with the world. The growing bond between China and Africa is a prime example of how this vision can be translated into tangible benefits. By working together, China and Africa are not only forging a strong partnership, but also setting a precedent for how nations can collaborate for mutual prosperity.

As the BRI continues to expand and evolve, the potential for even greater cooperation and development between China and Africa remains immense. The future of this partnership is bright, promising a shared path to prosperity that benefits both regions and contributes to a more balanced and equitable global economy. The journey ahead is one of shared progress, driven by innovation, respect and a commitment to mutual success.

The author is Director of Diplomatic Society of South Africa.