The 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has brought green cooperation to the forefront of China-Africa relations. This focus is not only timely but necessary, given the growing global urgency to combat climate change and pursue sustainable development. The summit highlighted key discussions, such as the China-Africa Dialogue on Environment and Climate Change, and the launch of the Initiative on Strengthening China-Africa Cooperation for Green and Sustainable Development. These initiatives reflect a shared commitment to addressing environmental challenges while promoting economic growth.
Green development has become a cornerstone of the eight major initiatives and nine programs implemented under the FOCAC framework. It is also central to the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Africa. Africa’s abundant renewable energy resources-such as wind, solar, and geothermal energy-offer significant potential for addressing the continent’s persistent energy shortages through sustainable means.
China’s extensive experience in green development positions it as a key partner for Africa in realizing this potential. Projects like the Sosian Geothermal Power Plant in Kenya, the NOOR Solar Complex in Morocco, and Angola’s Caculo Cabaça Hydropower Station, often dubbed the “Three Gorges Project of Africa,” exemplify the transformative impact of Chinese-led green energy initiatives. These projects have not only enhanced power supply and energy security across the continent but have also played a crucial role in reducing Africa’s dependence on traditional energy imports and mitigating the impacts of climate change globally.
Electric motorcycles, known locally as “boda-bodas,” represent another significant aspect of green cooperation between China and Africa. Motorcycles are a vital mode of transportation across Africa due to their flexibility, convenience, and affordability. The growing popularity of ride-hailing services for motorcycles has led to a surge in demand, making the African motorcycle market one of the fastest-growing sectors on the continent.
“Made-in-China” electric motorcycles, with their tailored performance and pricing for the African market, align perfectly with the continent’s push towards electric mobility. These vehicles not only offer a cleaner alternative to traditional combustion engines but also provide a practical solution to Africa’s transportation needs. By 2027, the African electric motorcycle market is expected to reach a value of $5.07 billion, reflecting the sector’s vast growth potential. This promising market outlook has spurred numerous African enterprises to collaborate with Chinese companies in producing and selling electric motorcycles, further solidifying the synergy between “Made-in-China” products and local demand.
The success of China-Africa cooperation in green development can be attributed to the shared understanding and empathy between the two regions. Unlike Western institutions, which have often been criticized for imposing their own concepts of rights and democracy, China approaches its cooperation with Africa on the basis of mutual respect and practical support. As developing nations, both China and African countries value national dignity, independence, and the right to self-determined development. China does not adopt a condescending attitude; instead, it focuses on addressing Africa’s immediate needs while also helping the continent tackle its long-term development challenges.
An excellent example of this pragmatic approach is Africa’s “Great Green Wall” initiative, launched by the African Union in 2007. This ambitious project, aimed at combating desertification across the Sahel region, was inspired by China’s “Three-North Shelter Forest Program.” To support the initiative, China has provided technical assistance, hosted specialized workshops, and sent experts to help formulate effective on-site strategies. The collaboration has yielded significant results, demonstrating the effectiveness of China’s practical, needs-based approach to cooperation.
Green cooperation has become a major highlight of China-Africa relations, with a growing number of African countries actively participating in various initiatives. To date, China has signed 19 South-South cooperation memorandums of understanding on climate change with 17 African countries. Additionally, the ecological environment departments of seven African nations have joined the Belt and Road Initiative International Green Development Coalition, further solidifying their commitment to sustainable development.
China’s involvement in Africa’s green development extends far beyond individual projects. Since 2021, China has participated in the construction of over 120 climate projects across Africa. These include efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change, the establishment of low-carbon demonstration zones, and the development of wind farms, hydropower stations, and photovoltaic power plants. These initiatives have not only contributed to the continent’s energy security but have also positioned Africa as a key player in the global fight against climate change.
The thriving green cooperation between China and Africa is not a coincidence but the result of strategic foresight and mutual benefit. Both regions have seized the historic opportunity presented by the new technological revolution and industrial transformation, particularly in the field of new energy. Africa’s enthusiasm for developing new energy capacity reflects its broader pursuit of sustainable development, while China’s expertise and experience provide the necessary support to turn this vision into reality.
The vitality of this cooperation is rooted in a deep-seated commitment to shared goals. As Africa continues its positive pursuit of development, the cooperation with China is set to expand further, paving the way for joint modernization efforts. This partnership not only promises to address Africa’s immediate energy needs but also holds the potential to transform the continent’s economic landscape, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
In conclusion, the 2024 FOCAC Summit has underscored the importance of green cooperation as a key pillar of China-Africa relations. As both regions continue to collaborate on green and sustainable development, the future of this partnership looks brighter than ever, promising mutual benefits and a shared path towards a sustainable future.
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