From the 31st of October 2024 to November the 5th 2024, forty-nine (49) participants from different African countries attended a seminar in Anhui Province, China, on “Chinese Modernisation and African Development”. As a first-time visitor to China, it was a great honour and privilege for me to be selected to represent Sierra Leone. My experience was very enriching, providing me with an insight into Chinese’s historical and technological advancements, its enriching cultural history, fast-developing infrastructure, and its implication for Africa’s development. The seminar opened the participants’ eyes on China versatility in technological and her ability to alter the narratives for African Countries.
The one-week seminar was structured to facilitate knowledge sharing and to foster collaboration between African nations and Chinese enterprises. Throughout the week, we engaged in various activities, including lectures, discussions, and visits to innovative sites, factories, museums, parks, farms, hydro dam. The facilitators included leaders of the Hefei Municipal People’s Government, professionals, academic professors, and representatives from manufacturing companies, all of whom shared valuable insights into China’s modernization effort and its influence on Africa’s development.
We participated in lectures led by experts from diverse fields, addressing subjects such as infrastructure development, technology, and sustainable urban planning practices. The Question-and-Answer sessions provided an opportunity for attendees to interact directly with the speakers, promoting a lively exchange of ideas.
We visited a variety of innovative facilities and museums that highlighted China’s advancements in technology and its rich cultural heritage. Among the notable sites were engineering locations where modern construction techniques were showcased, demonstrating the expertise of companies such as China Railway No.4 Engineering Group Co., Ltd. (CREC4) and Anhui Construction Engineering Group Co., Ltd.
The seminar served as a valuable opportunity for networking with representatives from various enterprises, enabling discussions about potential collaborations and partnerships. It also emphasized several critical areas where Chinese modernization could impact African development. Over the time, China has proven to be one of Africa’s strongest allies and business partners. The Chinese has immensely contributed to the infrastructural development in Africa and has had strong ties with African Countries. They hope to maintain their relationship and create a deeper bond with Africa.
The seminar highlighted several key areas where Chinese modernization could influence African development. The Chinese are willing to train African experts in the field of technology and relocate some of its companies in Africa that will focus on infrastructure, food productivity and meeting the dire need of the citizens in other aspect of Life.
The seminar placed significant emphasis on China’s strategy for infrastructure development. CREC4 is well-regarded for its extensive construction and engineering capabilities, boasting over 100 general contracting qualifications. The company is actively involved in international projects, including those associated with the Belt and Road (B&R) Initiative, which aims to enhance global trade and infrastructure connectivity. Their expertise in managing large-scale projects can serve as a valuable model for African nations looking to improve their infrastructure systems and foster economic growth. By leveraging the experience of companies like CREC4, African countries can explore innovative construction techniques and project management strategies that have been successfully implemented in China. This collaboration could lead to significant advancements in infrastructure development across the continent.
The focus on technological innovation was a prominent theme throughout the seminar. Companies like Gotion High-tech and Sungrow highlighted their advancements in energy solutions and renewable technologies. For example, Gotion High-tech is recognized as a leader in battery technology, emphasizing sustainable energy solutions that could play a crucial role in addressing Africa’s energy challenges. Their commitment to developing efficient energy storage systems aligns with the continent’s growing demand for reliable and renewable energy sources. Similarly, Sungrow showcased its expertise in solar energy solutions, contributing to the global shift towards sustainable energy practices. Both companies exemplify how technological advancements can support Africa’s energy needs and foster sustainable development across the continent.
The seminar also underscored the importance of cultural exchange in fostering collaboration. By understanding each other’s strengths and challenges, African countries can better align their development strategies with China’s modernization efforts. The diverse backgrounds of participants enriched discussions, allowing for a broader perspective on shared goals.
My visit to China for the seminar on Chinese Modernisation and African Development was an eye-opening experience. It provided a unique opportunity to learn from China’s advancements and explore potential pathways for collaboration. The insights gained from lectures, site visits, and networking will undoubtedly inform my perspective on development strategies in Sierra Leone and across Africa.
I would like to express my gratitude to the organizers of the seminar and all the facilitators who shared their knowledge and experiences. This visit has inspired me to promote stronger connections between African nations and China, utilizing the insights gained to foster sustainable development within our communities.
