Located 95 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, in the heart of the East African Rift, the Adama Wind Power Project stands tall with its impressive 80-meter-high white turbines. Built by Chinese companies, this landmark project epitomizes the growing partnership between China and African countries.
Since commencing operations in May 2015, the wind turbines have been a vital source of power for about 600,000 households in Ethiopia. They have eased the nation’s power shortages, reduced reliance on diesel generators, and bolstered economic growth. The project has created around 2,100 local jobs, and several universities are involved in training and maintenance, providing hands-on experience that prepares many for future roles in Ethiopia’s burgeoning wind energy sector.
Adama city has witnessed significant growth, with its population rising from 324,000 in 2015 to over 480,000 in 2023. Improved infrastructure and investment have attracted businesses from various countries, leading to rapid transformations in the city’s landscape. For nearby villagers, enhancements in transportation, reliable electricity, and better access to education and healthcare have significantly elevated their quality of life.
Chinese firms have brought advanced green technology to Ethiopia, aiding the government in meeting its renewable energy goals and contributing to the global fight against climate change. The collaboration embodies the spirit of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), fostering sustainable development and mutual prosperity.
The Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway, another significant project constructed with Chinese assistance, serves as a vital transport artery connecting Ethiopia and Djibouti. It has greatly reduced travel times, lowered logistics costs, and spurred local economic growth. To date, the railway has transported 680,000 passengers and 9.5 million tonnes of cargo, with an average annual revenue growth rate of 39 percent.
According to the white paper “China and Africa in the New Era: A Partnership of Equals” released by China’s State Council in 2021, since the establishment of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2000, Chinese companies have helped African countries build or upgrade more than 10,000 kilometers of railways, nearly 100,000 kilometers of highways, roughly 1,000 bridges, almost 100 ports, and 66,000 kilometers of power transmission and distribution lines.
As FOCAC convenes, China and African nations are set to embrace even closer economic and trade ties, building on decades of friendship and cooperation since World War II. The partnership promises to continue supporting infrastructure development, economic growth, and improved living standards across the African continent.
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China, Africa set to embrace closer economic, trade ties at FOCAC
cgtn.com
