Benefitting Together: UNIDO’s Vision for Africa-China Industrial Development After FOCAC 2024
As the 2024 Beijing summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) draws to a close, a new chapter in Africa-China relations is unfolding. The release of two pivotal documents—the “Beijing Declaration on Jointly Building an All-Weather China-Africa Community with a Shared Future for the New Era” and the “FOCAC Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027)”—signals ambitious plans for enhanced trade, industrialization, and sustainable development across the African continent.
United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) representative to China, Dr. Stephen Kargbo, shared his insights on these developments in a recent interview with CGTN host Enoch Wong. Dr. Kargbo highlighted the critical role of industrialization in driving economic growth and reducing poverty in Africa, emphasizing that collaboration with China offers unprecedented opportunities for mutual benefit.
Advancing Industrialization Through Partnership
Dr. Kargbo underscored UNIDO’s commitment to fostering industrial development in Africa, noting that the organization’s partnership with China is instrumental in achieving the goals outlined in the FOCAC action plan. “China’s experience in lifting millions out of poverty through industrialization provides valuable lessons for Africa,” he stated. “By leveraging China’s expertise and investment, African nations can accelerate their own industrial development.”
The FOCAC Beijing Action Plan (2025-2027) outlines specific initiatives aimed at boosting industrial capacity, including technology transfer, infrastructure development, and capacity building. Dr. Kargbo highlighted UNIDO’s role in facilitating these initiatives, ensuring they align with sustainable development goals and local needs.
Trade as a Catalyst for Growth
Enhancing trade between Africa and China is a cornerstone of the new cooperation framework. Dr. Kargbo pointed out that reducing trade barriers and improving market access are essential steps toward balanced economic relations. “Promoting Africa’s exports to China not only strengthens economies but also contributes to job creation and skills development,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of adding value to African raw materials through local processing and manufacturing. “By moving up the value chain, African countries can increase revenue and foster more resilient economies,” Dr. Kargbo explained.
Sustainable Development at the Core
The commitment to sustainable development is a key aspect of the FOCAC outcomes. Dr. Kargbo highlighted that industrialization efforts must be environmentally responsible and socially inclusive. “UNIDO promotes green industrialization practices to ensure that economic growth does not come at the expense of the environment,” he remarked. “It’s about creating industries that are sustainable in the long term.”
A Shared Future
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Kargbo expressed optimism about the future of Africa-China cooperation. “The FOCAC summit has laid a solid foundation for an all-weather partnership,” he said. “By working together, we can achieve shared prosperity and build a community with a shared future for all.”
The implementation of the ambitious plans set forth in the Beijing Declaration and Action Plan will require continued commitment and collaboration. With the support of organizations like UNIDO, the vision of a thriving, industrialized Africa connected closely with China is within reach.
Reference(s):
Benefitting together: UN industrial development and Africa-China ties
cgtn.com
