Latest news with #FOCAC
See - Sada Elbalad
20-05-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Egypt, China Deepen Strategic Partnership in High-Level Talks
H-Tayea On Tuesday, Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly received Li Shulei, Member of the Political Bureau and Secretary of the Secretariat of the Communist Party of China (CPC), in Cairo, alongside a senior Chinese delegation. The meeting marked a renewed commitment to deepening the strategic partnership between Egypt and China across political, economic, and cultural dimensions. The Prime Minister welcomed the high-level Chinese delegation at the government headquarters in Egypt's New Administrative Capital and reaffirmed Egypt's appreciation for the longstanding and historic ties between the two nations. He described the visit as a reflection of the strength of bilateral relations, which have seen remarkable growth over the past decade since their elevation to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Dr. Madbouly highlighted Egypt's interest in attracting a portion of the $52 billion in Chinese investments pledged to Africa during the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), calling for a specific focus on directing Chinese capital toward Egyptian development projects. He praised the contributions of Chinese companies in infrastructure, high-speed rail, port development, and the business district of the New Capital, and emphasized the government's ambition to welcome further investment in Egypt's industrial and technological sectors. The Prime Minister also pointed to the Suez Canal Economic Zone as a key area for Chinese industrial relocation, especially in fields such as electric vehicles and mobile phone manufacturing. He called for stronger cooperation in localizing industries and technology transfer, noting Egypt's strategic geographic position and regional market access. Dr. Madbouly reaffirmed Egypt's support for the One-China policy and commended China's principled position on non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. He expressed optimism about President Xi Jinping's anticipated visit to Egypt, which he said would be a milestone in advancing bilateral cooperation. On cultural ties, the Prime Minister voiced Egypt's desire to boost Chinese tourism and promote cultural exchange. He noted that Chinese citizens are now eligible for visas upon arrival at Egyptian airports and called for expanded direct flight routes to strengthen tourism between the two countries. Li Shulei, representing the CPC leadership, conveyed greetings from the Chinese Prime Minister and commended Egypt's political, economic, and social achievements over the past decade. He remarked on the transformation of Cairo and Alexandria since his previous visit 20 years ago and praised Egypt's preservation of its historical and architectural heritage. Li emphasized the shared civilizational depth of both nations and reiterated China's interest in advancing cooperation with Egypt in tourism, culture, media, and heritage preservation. He pledged to encourage Chinese media to promote Egypt's rich history and culture, contributing to increased tourism from China. He also voiced China's eagerness to partner with Egypt on the preservation of antiquities and historical sites. Li affirmed that many Chinese investors are genuinely interested in entering the Egyptian market and that the Chinese government is committed to expanding cooperation with Egypt in ways that support both countries' development goals. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to enhance cooperation across strategic sectors and to translate the historical bonds between Egypt and China into greater economic integration, cultural exchange, and mutual development. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies
IOL News
09-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
China's Response to US Tariffs: Lessons for Africa
China's President Xi Jinping (centre) with leaders from African countries at the opening ceremony of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on September 5, external shocks into opportunities for reform, investing in domestic capacity, and building south-south partnerships are all strategies that African states, including South Africa, should explore, says the writer. Kuben Chetty When US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent claimed that China's economy could lose '5 to 10 million jobs' due to new tariffs, the headline predictably grabbed global attention. 'The onus is on Beijing,' he added, laying the blame for de-escalation squarely at China's doorstep. But such rhetoric, laced with provocation, ignores both the history and the present reality of US-China trade relations. More crucially, for countries like South Africa watching this power play unfold, Bessent's remarks reveal not strength, but a strategic miscalculation: the assumption that China is cornered. The reality is quite different. China is not just enduring the storm — it is actively transforming it into a catalyst for growth and global integration. While Bessent frames tariffs as a hammer, China has chosen to wield them as a chisel, reshaping its domestic economy and diversifying its global footprint. Recent reporting by China Daily reveals that in response to tariff escalation, Beijing is accelerating its pivot toward internal economic circulation and tech-driven industrial upgrades. In essence, it's turning external pressure into internal reform. At the heart of this shift lies China's 'dual circulation' model, which emphasises both international exports and a robust domestic market. As US tariffs bite, Chinese exporters are rechanneling their focus inward, tapping into one of the world's largest consumer bases. This strategy doesn't eliminate pain, but it certainly builds long-term resilience. Simultaneously, Chinese companies are expanding their global reach through new avenues — demonstrated vividly at this year's Canton Fair. As CGTN reports, many firms are bypassing US tariff walls by exploring alternative markets across Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. They're not retreating from globalisation; they're simply redrawing the map. It's a form of pragmatic diplomacy that the US may want to study rather than dismiss. Even the logistics sector — often a barometer of deeper economic trends — is signaling that the costs of tariffs will soon rebound back to the American economy. A logistics insider interviewed in viral Facebook footage warns that tariff disruptions are already raising prices, delaying shipments, and unsettling global supply chains. Let's be clear: no one wins in a trade war. China has consistently reiterated this position, most recently through government spokesperson Guo Jiakun, who emphasized that the current tension was initiated by Washington. Dialogue, not dominance, is the only pathway forward. To insist that 'China must de-escalate first' is to demand surrender, not negotiation. This should matter to South Africa, not just as an observer, but as a trading nation navigating between East and West. Our exporters are vulnerable to disruptions in the global supply chain. Our economy, too, depends on multilateralism, not megaphone diplomacy. We would do well to foster closer ties with partners who demonstrate economic adaptability rather than coercion. As Africa moves toward greater industrialisation and regional integration, China's model offers important lessons. Turning external shocks into opportunities for reform, investing in domestic capacity, and building south-south partnerships are all strategies that African states, including South Africa, should explore. The emerging BRICS+ framework could become a bulwark against the volatility of transatlantic geopolitics. At a time when the world faces multiple polycrises, from inflation and war to climate change, the last thing we need is an economic superpower using tariffs as a political weapon. What we need is mutual respect, multilateral dialogue, and a shared commitment to sustainable global development. Tariffs may come and go, but strategic resilience is what defines a nation's future. And on that front, the world may be wise to watch Beijing a little more closely — and listen to Washington a little less blindly.
Zawya
01-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ambassador Yin Chengwu Met with Liberian Minister of Commerce and Industry Dagoseh
AFRICA On April 29, Ambassador Yin Chengwu met with Hon. Magdalene E. Dagoseh, Minister of Commerce and Industry of Liberia. The two sides exchanged views on implementing the outcomes of the meeting between the two heads of state and the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and further enhancing China-Liberia practical cooperation in the field of economy and trade. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Liberia. Disclaimer: The contents of this press release was provided from an external third party provider. This website is not responsible for, and does not control, such external content. This content is provided on an 'as is' and 'as available' basis and has not been edited in any way. Neither this website nor our affiliates guarantee the accuracy of or endorse the views or opinions expressed in this press release. The press release is provided for informational purposes only. The content does not provide tax, legal or investment advice or opinion regarding the suitability, value or profitability of any particular security, portfolio or investment strategy. Neither this website nor our affiliates shall be liable for any errors or inaccuracies in the content, or for any actions taken by you in reliance thereon. You expressly agree that your use of the information within this article is at your sole risk. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, this website, its parent company, its subsidiaries, its affiliates and the respective shareholders, directors, officers, employees, agents, advertisers, content providers and licensors will not be liable (jointly or severally) to you for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, incidental, punitive or exemplary damages, including without limitation, lost profits, lost savings and lost revenues, whether in negligence, tort, contract or any other theory of liability, even if the parties have been advised of the possibility or could have foreseen any such damages. © ZAWYA 2025
IOL News
30-04-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Scholars and officials call for promoting all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era
Left to right: Qin Xiaoshun, Chairperson of China-Africa Women and Youth Association; Bongani Mayimele, Director of International Relations and Partnerships of the National School of Government; Sizo Nkala (back), Research Fellow at University of Johannesburg Centre for Africa-China Studies; Ayanda Holo (front), President of BRICS TV Africa Channel; Gideon Chitanga, Research Fellow at University of Johannesburg Centre for Africa-China Studies; Gujubo Belachew, Minster counsellor, Ethiopia Embassy in South Africa; Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, Minister of Public Service and Administration; Gert Grobler, Former South African Ambassador to Japan, Spain and Madagascar, and senior research fellow at the Institute for Africa Studies at the Zhejiang Normal University; Siyabonga Cyprian Cwele, Former South African Ambassador to China; Jan Grundling, Executive Deputy President of Science, Engineering, Technology and Education Association of Southern Africa and China; Ni Yanshuo, Chief Reporter of ChinAfrica magazine Image: Supplied / Sun Xiang At the 2024 Beijing Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in September last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed that the overall characterisation of China-Africa relations be elevated to an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. 'This declaration affirms, whether faced with pandemic or geopolitical shifts, Africa and China will still remain each other's most trustworthy true partners,' said Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, South Africa's minister of public service and administration. 'In this light, we must therefore recognise and celebrate soft power and capacity building as equally important components and realms where China has made remarkable contributions to Africa's public service and educational spheres.' Buthelezi made the remarks at a seminar on 'Governance of China: Forging an All-Weather China-Africa Community with a Shared Future in the New Era' held in Pretoria on April 25. The seminar, held by China International Communications Group (CICG) Centre for Europe and Africa, was attended by more than 50 participants, including government officials, professors and scholars, youth representatives, and journalists. Participants discussed topics like cooperation and exchanges in the area of governance, strengthening of China-Africa cooperation, youth exchanges and people-to-people exchanges. They believe that exchanges and cooperation in governance between China and African countries can help to promote development and transition of African countries. They applauded the fact that President Xi has put forward a series of public goods like the Global Security Initiative, the Global Development Initiative and the Global Civilisation Initiative, which serve as important cooperation platforms for the Global South countries. Upholding 'people first' governance philosophy According Buthelezi, the book Xi Jinping: The Governance of China shows President Xi's great leadership capacity. Such leadership continues to inspire transformation on the African continent. 'We see this through thousands of South African students going to study in China and returning home to strengthen our public institutions. We see this in the training of African professionals and officials in governance, administration and technical innovation,' he said. These are some of the human bridges that connect the two nations beyond trade figures and memoranda of understanding. At the heart of this engagement is a vision for 'people-first' governance, as reflected in Xi Jinping: The Governance of China. Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, South Africa's minister of public service and administration, speaks at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ From offering scholarships and technical training to hosting leadership programmes and knowledge exchange, China has provided platforms that empower the youth and professionals in thinking globally and acting locally, he noted. According to him, the book offers a compelling account of the philosophy behind China's transformation from poverty to prosperity. It presents a model of leadership that is disciplined, that is strategic, and visibly people-centred. 'It also speaks to the value of long-term planning, accountability, and service-driven governance, which are the principles that we in South Africa's public administration strive to uphold,' he stressed. China's effective governance yields fruits. In 2020, China eradicated absolute poverty, which is an achievement that stands as both a milestone and a master class for developing nations. 'As South Africa continues to fight against poverty, inequality, and unemployment, we are encouraged to explore how Chinese governance innovations can be thoughtfully adopted within our context. We are eager to learn how vision and leadership, long-term planning, and discipline can be translated into practical policies that uplift communities while creating lasting transformation,' said Buthelezi. Siyabonga Cyprian Cwele, former South African ambassador to China, speaks at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang Siyabonga Cyprian Cwele, former South African ambassador to China, echoed the view. He noted that the seminar took place during the autumn season of harvest in South Africa to 'reap what we planted last spring in Beijing during the successful second state visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa to China, and the FOCAC Beijing Summit hosted by President Xi in Beijing.' The two leaders always characterise the bilateral relations as 'comrades and friends' that are rooted in political trust and mutual benefit. The last state visit also upgraded China-South Africa relations from Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to an All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in a New Era. 'President Ramaphosa highlighted that this will elevate our mutually beneficial political and economic ties for the benefit of both of our countries and people,' he said. Under the leadership of President Xi, China has realized its goal of eradicating absolute poverty throughout the whole nation, which is a result of 'people-first' governance philosophy. China has offered to share with South Africa its experience in poverty alleviation and rural revitalisation, and pledged to support South Africa's coordinated urban and rural development. According to him, China has embarked on the path to build a great modern socialist country in all respects and pursue national rejuvenation through Chinese style of modernisation. On the other hand, Africa is also making progress in its modernisation through the programme Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want. Gert Grobler, former South African ambassador to Japan, Spain and Madagascar and senior research fellow at the Institute for African Studies at Zhejiang Normal University, delivers a speech at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang This seminar took place against the backdrop of a growing South Africa-China relationship, characterised by strong political trust, deep friendship, solidarity, and mutual trust, said Gert Grobler, former South African ambassador to Japan, Spain and Madagascar and senior research fellow at the Institute for African Studies at the Zhejiang Normal University. After Xi Jinping: The Governance of China English version was published in 2022, it was well received by the world. 'The book provided an invaluable window for the rest of the world to understand and appreciate Chinese society and its role in global development and transformation, especially its 'people-centred' governance philosophy,' he said. It is particularly important for developing countries, whose collective desire is to lift their population out of poverty and achieve sustainable development, and emerging economies, especially in Africa, to learn how to advance national development that is people-centred, inclusive, just, equitable, and globally envisioned. Promoting youth exchanges In the book, Xi reiterates the importance of youth exchanges on several occasions. According to Grobler, Africa and China are committed to building leaders for tomorrow. Young, talented people, both in Africa and China, are the custodians of the future of South Africa's, as well as Africa's, relationship with China. 'And they will be the foundation for building, consolidating, and promoting the China-Africa friendship. There's also strong support for women, such as the programme called Support for Talent Development and Empowerment of Women and Youth in Africa in the FOCAC Beijing Action Plan,' he said. Africa has the youngest population in the world. There are more than 400 million young people aged between 15 and 35 on the continent. Such a youthful population calls for an increase of investment in economic and social development factors in order to improve the development of African nations. 'Our future youth leaders must be encouraged to continue to accept and to shoulder more responsibilities than before, integrate theory with practice, and remain fully devoted to seeking development for their countries, rejuvenation for their nations, and happiness for the people,' said Grobler. Gujubo Belachew, minister counsellor at the Ethiopian Embassy in South Africa, delivers his remarks at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang Grobler's views were echoed by Gujubo Belachew, minster counsellor at the Ethiopian Embassy in South Africa. He noted that the global trade is not inclusive, with rising trade protectionism and unilateralism in the Western world. 'So, for this reason, traditional global order is, in one way or another, gasping,' he noted. According to him, the Global South countries should not adopt a wait-and-see attitude, but should strengthen cooperation to defend their own interests. He noted that the strength of the Africa-China relationship lies in the alignment of their visions. Because of the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era, the Chinese vision basically aligns with the African Union's Agenda 2063. Of the 15 flagship projects of the Agenda 2063, 60-70 percent have cooperation with China. Xi Jinping: The Governance of China illustrates China's development path and philosophy. Belachew said that African countries should also have clear development paths and philosophy. Encouraging multilateral cooperation Jan Grundling, executive deputy president of the Science, Engineering, Technology and Education Association of Southern Africa and China, delivers a speech at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang Jan Grundling, executive deputy president of the Science, Engineering, Technology and Education Association of Southern Africa and China, noted that at the core of today's global recalibration are competing paradigms. 'President Xi's vision of a community with a shared future is rooted in multilateralism, long-term strategic planning, and socio-economic upliftment. This vision is aligned with China's historical aspirations and commitment to a unique socialist path.' According to him, conversely, the world is facing rising unilateralism and protectionist policies from other big powers. The US is increasingly taking a unilateralist approach favouring America's interests by levying tariffs, and is challenging the existing global structures. This ideological divide among big powers presents complexity, but also opportunities, particularly for emerging economies. The South Africa-China relationship is a typical example of this new era. It is more than just about trade or diplomacy. It's about forming ethical partnerships, learning from each other's developmental journeys, and more importantly, cultivating leaders who can navigate the paradoxes of a multipolar model that is starting to emerge. Gideon Chitanga, research fellow at the University of Johannesburg Centre for Africa-China Studies, speaks at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang According to Gideon Chitanga, research fellow at the University of Johannesburg Centre for Africa-China Studies, national cohesion and stability are important for a country to develop, which can be seen in the book Xi Jinping: The Governance of China. 'Cohesion and stability are key. When you have social order, national cohesion and stability, you are in a better position to develop than when you have chaos and division, coupled with violent conflict,' he said. African countries should also learn from China, he suggested, adding that irrespective of the political system, 'we must have order, we must have stability, we must have some level of social cohesion that allows for modern economic engagement, the manipulation of new technologies, the creation of all kinds of productive forces … because if we are not producing, we cannot compete on the global market.' Bongani Mayimele, director of international relations and partnerships at the National School of Government, speaks at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang Bongani Mayimele, director of international relations and partnerships at the National School of Government, noted that China's success is often dubbed the 'Chinese Miracle.' 'But I believe that it is not merely a miracle but a result of Chinese wisdom spanning over 5,000 years of civilisation, visionary leadership, tenacity and endurance of the Chinese people,' he said. According to him, China was once a poor country with very small GDP. The Chinese achievement in abolishing absolute poverty in 2020 and turning China into a moderately prosperous society in all respects, ushering the country into a new era of high-quality development, remains one of the greatest achievements in the whole world. This serves as a great source of inspiration and holds lessons for many countries throughout the world. Promoting people-to-people exchanges Ayanda Holo, president of BRICS TV Africa Channel, gives a speech at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang Ayanda Holo, president of BRICS TV Africa Channel, noted that President Xi Jinping reiterated to strengthen people-to-people exchanges, which also include media exchanges. Media exchanges should be further strengthened as the majority of reports on African affairs are made by Western media. 'Why do we let Chinese people learn about Africa through CNN or Reuters or any other media that are not friends?' asked Holo, adding some reports published by Western media are not true, and even misleading. 'We are currently building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future, and we must fully utilise this opportunity to understand each other.' Sizo Nkala, research fellow at the University of Johannesburg Centre for Africa-China Studies, speaks at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang Sizo Nkala, research fellow at the University of Johannesburg Centre for Africa-China Studies, said that at the FOCAC Beijing Summit, President Xi announced the 10 partnership actions for modernisation to deepen China-Africa cooperation and spearhead the Global South modernisation. During the process, people-to-people exchanges, especially among young people, will become the bridge between the two sides. China and Africa have identified advancing modernisation as an objective in their respective policy programmes articulated in China's international cooperation policies and the African Union's Agenda 2063. Qin Xiaoshun, chairperson of the China-Africa Women and Youth Association, speaks at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang Qin Xiaoshun, chairperson of the China-Africa Women and Youth Association, noted that in the fourth volume of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China, there is a chapter devoted to 'the people first' governance philosophy. This indicates that the Communist Party of China has always put people's needs on top of its agenda, especially during the process of rural revitalisation. In the past, most of the impoverished people in China lived in rural areas. After China decided to launch the targeted measures of poverty alleviation, numerous rural areas have been helped out of poverty. The China-Africa Women and Youth Association is committed to promoting China-Africa cooperation in poverty alleviation through people-to-people exchanges, youth empowerment and women empowerment, so as to improve the independent development calibre of people in rural areas in Africa. Embracing development opportunities During the discussion section, representatives from the African National Congress Youth League and South African Students Congress expressed their ideas on China-Africa cooperation, noting that President Xi's governance philosophy can guarantee China's high-quality development. President Xi is a supporter and contributor of the world development and civilisation dialogues, and the Global Security Initiative, the Global Development Initiative and the Global Civilisation Initiative can guarantee the smooth implementation of China-Africa Cooperation. Ni Yanshuo, chief reporter of the Africa Bureau of the CICG Centre for Europe and Africa, speaks at the seminar. Image: Sun Xiang In his closing remarks, Ni Yanshuo, chief reporter of the Africa Bureau of the CICG Centre for Europe and Africa, noted that Xi Jinping: The Governance of China provides a window for the outside world to better understand China and its rapid development in the past decades. It explains how China has developed from scratch to the world's second-largest economy in more than 40 years. China has completely eradicated absolute poverty throughout the whole nation, an achievement not seen in any other country. Under the strong leadership of President Xi, China has made a series of achievements. After the US launched trade wars, China adopted a series of measures to ensure its stable economic development. President Xi stressed that 'trade wars will undermine the international trading system, the stability of the global economic order and the legitimate interests of all countries in the world, especially developing countries.' Ni noted that China values cooperation with African countries and welcomes African products to enter China's huge market. While the US is increasing tariffs on imports from other countries, China is reducing its tariffs and is opening its arms to embrace international cooperation. For example, China has given all the least developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines starting from 1 December last year, including 33 African countries. China is the world's first major developing country and the first major economy to do so. Local audiences applauded the hosting of the seminar. After attending the seminar, Gert Oosthuizen, former deputy minister of sport and recreation of South Africa, noted that the seminar was impressive and allowed South African people to better understand China's development path and the importance of China-Africa cooperation. 'China chose its development path according to its national conditions and has achieved remarkable progress,' he said.
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Atomic Alliances: China's Strategic Push into Africa's Nuclear Energy Sector
China is rapidly scaling up its energy diplomacy in Africa, with nuclear cooperation emerging as a cornerstone of its broader strategic agenda. On April 8, South Africa's Nuclear Energy Corporation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) during an official visit to China led by South Africa's Electricity Minister, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. The agreement aims to revive South Africa's nuclear fuel cycle, accelerate the deployment of small modular reactors and promote collaboration on advanced fuels such as high-assay low-enriched uranium. With strong government support for nuclear power but limited domestic financing, South Africa is seeking international partners to inject capital and technology while maintaining state ownership of key infrastructure. Minister Ramokgopa's working visit to China also aimed to find solutions to South Africa's energy insecurity and loadshedding. Central to this effort is the proposed life extension of the SAFARI-1 reactor at the Pelindaba nuclear research center, which is scheduled for retirement in 2030. Plans for a new multi-purpose reactor are already underway with R1.2 billion ($63.6 million) in seed funding allocated, but further investment is needed to move the project forward. This underscores the critical role of sustained nuclear investment in securing South Africa's long-term energy resilience and reducing dependence on aging infrastructure. China's Expanding Footprint China's ambitions in Africa's nuclear sector extend beyond South Africa. At the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, China launched the China-Africa Forum on the Peaceful Use of Nuclear Technology, as part of its 2025-2027 Beijing Action Plan. The move reinforced China's long-term goal to become Africa's premier nuclear energy partner. With 53 of 54 African nations represented at FOCAC – including 51 Heads of State – the event provided a powerful platform for Beijing to promote its nuclear agenda and expand its diplomatic and technical reach, while highlighting how Africa is leveraging nuclear energy to meet its growing power demands. For Africa, nuclear power presents a unique opportunity to address the continent's urgent energy access gap while advancing long-term sustainability. Nuclear offers baseload electricity with zero carbon emissions, making it well-suited to complement intermittent renewables like solar and wind. Small modular reactors, in particular, are seen as a viable solution for remote or off-grid regions due to their scalability, smaller footprint and enhanced safety features. With growing populations and rising industrial demand, several African nations view nuclear power as a low-carbon, scalable pathway to energy security and broader socioeconomic development. Nuclear Expansion Across Africa Currently, Africa's nuclear energy development is concentrated in six countries – Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria and South Africa. Of these, four have recently signed nuclear cooperation agreements with China. In September 2024, Nigeria entered high-level discussions with China on peaceful nuclear energy cooperation, covering the full project lifecycle – from research and training to construction and plant decommissioning. Earlier that year, Nigeria also signed an MoU with the CNNC aimed at operationalizing nuclear power plants by the 2030s. Ghana followed suit with a deal to deploy China's Hualong One reactor, while Kenya continues to pursue its longstanding 2015 agreement with China to develop a 1,000 MW plant by 2034. The International Atomic Energy Agency projects a 58% increase in nuclear energy use in Africa by 2030, with a tenfold increase by 2050. With more than 600 million people on the continent lacking electricity access, China's nuclear partnerships are positioned to close critical power gaps while supporting shared decarbonization goals. Against this backdrop, African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies serves as a pivotal platform for advancing nuclear energy collaboration between Africa, China and other global partners. Building on existing partnerships and recent MoUs, AEW will facilitate high-level discussions on technology transfer, investment frameworks and regulatory readiness to accelerate nuclear deployment in key African markets. These conversations will align national nuclear ambitions with China's global expertise, ensuring that energy security, sustainability and sovereignty are at the core of future collaborations. AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit for more information about this exciting event. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
