Story by ZBC Reporter
HARARE – CHINA has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s development through youth empowerment, infrastructure growth and agricultural transformation.
Speaking during the International Youth Summit on Land and Economic Freedom hosted by the Africa Youth Congress in Harare, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Zhou Ding, said Africa’s future lies in the hands of its youth, and China remains a ready and reliable partner in realising their potential.
“On the occasion of Africa Day 2025, I am privileged to join you in celebrating Africa’s liberation and unity, its dynamism and resilience. With half of its population younger than 19, Africa Day also reminds us that the continent’s greatest asset lies in its youth,” said Ambassador Zhou.
He said Zimbabwe remains a key partner in China’s engagement with Africa, with relations growing stronger through strategic investment and cooperation in various sectors.
“From the airports in Harare and Victoria Falls that connect Zimbabwe to global markets, to the boreholes that bring clean water to rural villages, the China-Zimbabwe partnership proves that true development is not transactional, but transformational,” he added.
In 2024, bilateral trade between Zimbabwe and China reached US$3.8 billion, representing a 23.9% increase. The Ambassador highlighted education, training, and skills development as central pillars of China’s partnership with Zimbabwe.
“Since 2018, more than 3 000 Zimbabwean students have studied in China. About 500 professionals from across sectors have participated in various training programmes each year,” said the ambassador.
On agriculture, the Chinese diplomat said China is sharing its modernised and technology-driven agricultural systems with African countries, with Zimbabwe benefiting through projects like the Agricultural Demonstration Villages in Mashonaland West and Central.
“The project is boosting farmers’ yields, incomes, and hope and opportunities for youth and women in previously marginalised rural communities,” he said.
He also noted that Chinese companies operating in Zimbabwe have invested over US$100 million in more than 70 community projects that promote youth empowerment, technology transfer and poverty alleviation.
In closing, Ambassador Zhou reaffirmed China’s long-term commitment to youth development and urged young Zimbabweans to strengthen the bond between the two nations.
“To our young friends present here, your energy, ideas, and courage will drive the social and economic development of your great nation,” he said.
