From Poverty to Prosperity: China’s Blueprint for Africa’s Development
On October 17, 2024, China commemorated its 11th National Poverty Alleviation Day alongside the 32nd International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. Reflecting on a remarkable journey, China has transformed from a nation grappling with widespread poverty to one that has eradicated absolute poverty, offering valuable lessons for countries worldwide, especially in Africa.
A Comprehensive Battle Against Poverty
Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 2012, the CPC Central Committee has prioritized poverty alleviation as a cornerstone of national development. Launching an unprecedented nationwide campaign, China sought to eliminate absolute poverty, a goal achieved by February 2021 when President Xi Jinping announced a “complete victory” in the battle against poverty. Over 98.99 million rural residents were lifted out of poverty, marking an extraordinary accomplishment.
A Global Impact
China’s success holds significant implications for the global fight against poverty. According to the World Bank’s threshold of $1.90 per day, China has lifted around 800 million people above extreme poverty over the past four decades. This accounts for approximately 75 percent of the global population raised out of extreme poverty, a monumental contribution to human development.
China’s achievements have propelled the realization of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals and enabled the country to meet the first Sustainable Development Goal—”end poverty in all its forms everywhere”—a full decade ahead of schedule.
The Dual Strategy for Success
China’s remarkable progress can be attributed to a dual strategy combining broad-based economic transformation with targeted poverty alleviation policies. Since the reform and opening-up policies initiated in 1978, China has experienced rapid economic growth, focusing on education, infrastructure investment, and an outward-oriented development strategy. This economic boom significantly reduced poverty levels across the nation.
As poverty rates fell below 10 percent, targeted strategies became increasingly vital. Launched in 2013, the targeted poverty alleviation strategy provided a comprehensive framework for identifying those in need, implementing assistance, and preventing a return to poverty. Effective governance played a crucial role, with coordinated efforts across government levels and active participation from non-governmental stakeholders.
Sharing Know-How with Africa
China’s commitment to alleviating poverty extends beyond its borders. Recognizing the potential for shared growth, China has actively engaged with African nations to share its experiences and support development initiatives.
In 2021, President Xi Jinping announced the establishment of China-Africa Joint Centers for Modern Agricultural Technology Exchange, Demonstration, and Training, aiming to promote agricultural modernization across the continent. By 2024, further commitments were made to implement ten partnership actions over the next three years, encompassing areas such as mutual learning among civilizations, trade prosperity, and industrial chain cooperation.
Chinese institutions and enterprises have been encouraged to develop demonstration villages for agricultural development and poverty alleviation in Africa. Initiatives like “A Hundred Companies in a Thousand Villages” have mobilized resources to support local communities.
Under the poverty reduction and agricultural development program, China has initiated 47 projects providing technical assistance to countries including Malawi, Burundi, and Côte d’Ivoire. With about 9,000 agricultural personnel and 500 experts sent to Africa, the program has benefited over one million small-scale farmers, contributing significantly to the continent’s agricultural modernization efforts.
A Shared Future
China’s journey from poverty to prosperity offers valuable lessons for countries striving to achieve sustainable development. By sharing its strategies and fostering collaborative partnerships, China is playing a pivotal role in global poverty reduction efforts.
As African nations work towards their own development goals, the cooperation with China presents opportunities to harness proven models of poverty alleviation, adapt them to local contexts, and improve the livelihoods of millions.
The path from poverty to prosperity is one that requires commitment, innovation, and collaboration. China’s experience underscores the importance of comprehensive strategies and international cooperation in building a better future for all.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
