Located 95 kilometres southeast of Addis Ababa in the heart of the East African Rift, the Adama Wind Power Project stands prominently with its 80-metre-high white turbines. Constructed by Chinese firms, this project epitomises the robust partnership between China and African nations.
Impact on Ethiopia’s Power and Economy
Since their inauguration in May 2015, the wind turbines have become a crucial power source for approximately 600,000 households. They have alleviated Ethiopia’s power deficits, reduced reliance on diesel generators, and bolstered economic growth. The initiative has created around 2,100 local jobs and involved several universities in training and maintenance, equipping many for future careers in Ethiopia’s wind energy sector.
Urban Growth and Improved Quality of Life in Adama
Adama city has seen significant expansion, with its population increasing from 324,000 in 2015 to more than 480,000 by 2023. Enhanced infrastructure and investment have drawn businesses from around the world, resulting in rapid urban development. For local residents, improvements in transportation, reliable electricity, and better access to education and healthcare have significantly uplifted their quality of life.
China’s Contribution to Green Technology
Chinese companies have introduced advanced green technology to Ethiopia, aiding the government in achieving its renewable energy objectives. This collaboration has also played a role in promoting environmental sustainability and contributing to the global fight against climate change.
Recent Collaborations
China and African nations have shared a long-standing friendship since World War II, with recent years witnessing intensified collaboration through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Infrastructure projects, including railways, roads, wind farms, and power stations, have been instrumental in supporting economic development across Africa.
Significant Infrastructure Projects
The Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway, for instance, has markedly reduced travel times, lowered logistics costs, and spurred local economic growth. To date, this railway has transported 680,000 passengers and 9.5 million tonnes of cargo, with revenue growing at an average annual rate of 39 percent.
FOCAC’s Impact on Africa’s Development
As detailed in the 2021 white paper “China and Africa in the New Era: A Partnership of Equals” by China’s State Council, since the launch of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2000, Chinese enterprises have been involved in constructing or upgrading over 10,000 km of railways, nearly 100,000 km of highways, around 1,000 bridges, close to 100 ports, and 66,000 km of power transmission and distribution infrastructure.
Strengthening Economic and Trade Relations
Beyond BRI projects, China and African nations have also cultivated deeper economic and trade connections, marked by increasing trade volumes and diverse commodities and services. China has upheld its status as Africa’s leading trading partner for 15 years in a row. According to data from China’s General Administration of Customs, trade between China and Africa reached a record high of $282.1 billion in 2023, a 1.5 percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, trade between January and July 2024 rose 5.5 percent year on year to 1.19 trillion yuan (approximately $166.6 billion).
Insights on China-Africa Trade
Sang Baichuan, Dean of the Institute of International Economy at the University of International Business and Economics in China, highlighted the rapid growth in China-Africa trade, attributing it to mutually beneficial cooperation. He noted that the Chinese economy and African nations’ economies are highly complementary. China’s advanced technologies, equipment, and capital are well-matched with Africa’s manpower and natural resources.
UNCTAD’s View on the China-Africa Partnership
Diane Sayinzoga, a senior official at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), praised the China-Africa trade partnership, noting its role in facilitating major infrastructure projects essential for Africa’s economic integration and growth. She added that China’s support aligns with UNCTAD’s objectives to promote Africa’s sustainable development by improving manufacturing capacities, expanding trade opportunities, fostering economic diversification, and integrating African nations into the global value chain.
The 2024 FOCAC Summit
The 2024 FOCAC Summit, scheduled to be held in Beijing from September 4 to 6, is expected to be a pivotal event for China and Africa to deepen their economic and trade relationships, aiming for mutual benefits and shared development goals.
FOCAC’s Role in Promoting Shared Development
“FOCAC has resulted in a multitude of agreements on investments, trade, and development projects between China and African nations, which align seamlessly with UNCTAD’s objectives,” Sayinzoga added.
