SONG Yang: China, Africa Advance Modernization in New Era

Africa's level of economic development is relatively lagging behind compared to other continents, with many developing countries, including those classified by the United Nations as some of the least developed countries, concentrated in Africa. The Chinese path to modernization can therefore offer valuable insights for African countries seeking modernization in their unique contexts.

From China's governance experience, two points that African countries are particularly interested in are political stability and infrastructure development. Political stability in China has ensured the long-term implementation of poverty reduction policies and facilitated economic growth. Without political stability, a country embroiled in conflict will struggle to sustain economic growth and uplift the income levels of low-income and impoverished populations.

Infrastructure development is a key focus in Africa, with a significant emphasis on areas such as water resources, transportation, and internet infrastructure. China plays a role in supporting and aiding these developments, assisting African enterprises in infrastructure projects, particularly through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative. Development of infrastructure, including roads, is crucial for economic growth and attracting foreign investment.

Some successful experiences from China's targeted poverty alleviation efforts may be worth emulating for African countries. One such experience is the construction of a basic public service system, including education and healthcare. Long-term development involves enhancing a country's national development and improving the economic well-being of low-income populations. China's sustained high-speed economic growth and successful poverty reduction efforts are partly attributed to its strong focus on education. Since the enactment of compulsory education laws in 1986, China has achieved high rates of basic and compulsory education coverage, significantly reducing illiteracy rates.

In terms of healthcare, Africa faces serious infectious diseases, which, if left untreated, can lead to high infant mortality rates and push some low-income families into poverty. China's experiences in basic healthcare services, such as infant vaccination programs, reproductive health, and elderly care, are exemplary for developing countries. China's basic healthcare services cover a vast majority of its citizens through medical insurance.

Another of China's experiences is the emphasis on "precision" in its targeted poverty alleviation efforts. This involves tailoring poverty alleviation policies to the specific characteristics and needs of impoverished populations and regions. For example, some areas may benefit from photovoltaic poverty alleviation projects, while others may thrive with innovative agriculture initiatives or e-commerce poverty alleviation programs like "Taobao Villages". Tailoring policies to specific circumstances and households is essential for effective targeted poverty alleviation, showcasing a distinctive feature of China's poverty reduction system.

Source: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202409/06/WS66dac1cda3103711928a68c6.html