By Thandiswa Losi

In a gesture of goodwill and solidarity, the Chinese Ambassador to South Africa, His Excellency Ambassador Wu Peng, visited Kgomo-Kgomo Village on December 12, bringing with him 1,000 food parcels and 500 solar panels.

The event, held in collaboration with South Africa's Department of Social Development and local leadership, was attended by Minister Sisisi Tolashe, North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi, and other dignitaries, including King Kgosi Nchaupe III Makapan and local community leaders.

The initiative, timed to coincide with the festive season, aims to support vulnerable families and provide sustainable energy solutions to the rural community. “As Christmas and New Year are coming, the Chinese Embassy in South Africa has prepared some food parcels and home solar batteries for villagers. We hope that you will have a happy and peaceful holiday,” the Ambassador Wu Peng.

Strengthening a 'Golden Era' of Bilateral Relations

The event highlighted the deep and enduring relationship between China and South Africa, described by the ambassador as a bond of "comrades and brothers." Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and President Cyril Ramaphosa, the relationship has entered what is being called a "Golden Era," marked by increased cooperation and strategic partnerships.

Last August, during President Xi Jinping’s fourth state visit to South Africa, the two nations reinforced their commitment to a people-centred approach to bilateral relations. The ambassador reiterated this vision during his speech, emphasising that cooperative projects must focus on delivering tangible benefits to the people.

Collaboration in Poverty Alleviation

Poverty alleviation has been a cornerstone of China-South Africa cooperation. Over the years, China has provided South Africa with material and financial aid, completed development projects, and facilitated human resource training. These efforts have made significant contributions to South Africa's economic and social development, particularly in rural areas like Kgomo-Kgomo Village.

Currently, the two nations are collaborating on the Poverty Alleviation Model Village project, which seeks to implement sustainable solutions to reduce poverty. The ambassador called the initiative a “vivid demonstration of how we jointly build a high-level China-South Africa community with a shared future”.

The donation of solar panels to Kgomo-Kgomo Village is a practical step in this direction, addressing the community’s energy needs and promoting the use of renewable energy sources.

Lessons from China’s Poverty Alleviation Journey

The ambassador’s speech drew parallels between China’s own journey in poverty alleviation and the challenges faced by South Africa. When the People’s Republic of China was founded in 1949, the country grappled with one of the world’s highest poverty rates, with 87% of its population living in rural areas under extreme poverty. Through concerted efforts spanning more than 70 years, China lifted nearly 800 million rural residents out of poverty, accounting for over 70% of the global reduction in poverty during this period.

“Poverty is not destined. Poverty is not unbeatable,” the ambassador emphasised, attributing China’s success to hard work, determination, and policies tailored to local conditions.

Beyond its borders, China has extended its support to other developing countries, including South Africa, through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative. According to a World Bank report, the initiative is projected to help 7.6 million people escape extreme poverty and 32 million people overcome moderate poverty by 2030.

#wu-peng

MEC Matome Chiloane: 'China won't wake up one day and say we are treating people badly'

‘If you know history, South Africa must be supported’, says Chinese Ambassador Wu Peng

Chinese Ambassador Brings Holiday Cheer to Kgomo-Kgomo Village