Chinese FM Calls for More “Success Stories” in China-Africa Cooperation

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for the creation of more “success stories” from China-Africa cooperation to strengthen the friendship between the two sides and inspire hopes for self-reliant development across the African continent.

Wang cited the story of Musa Darboe, a farmer and entrepreneur from The Gambia, as a prime example. Darboe has significantly benefited from China’s hybrid rice technology, which Wang praised as a model of productive China-Africa cooperation.

The remarks were made during a reception marking the 25th anniversary of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Changsha, the capital of central China’s Hunan Province.

During the event, Darboe shared how the introduction of Chinese hybrid rice—developed by renowned scientist Yuan Longping—helped him greatly increase his rice yield. With the support of Chinese agricultural experts in Africa, Darboe said he achieved prosperity, and his village was lifted out of hunger.

Darboe, who brought rice from The Gambia to China as a tribute to Yuan, expressed his eagerness to learn more about Chinese agricultural technologies and modernization experiences. He also voiced his readiness to deepen cooperation between the two nations.

Wang reaffirmed that China would continue to pursue mutual benefit and common development, and to deliver more tangible gains to the people of Africa.

Hunan Province is the home of Yuan Longping, known as the “Father of Hybrid Rice,” who made major contributions to China’s food security. Yuan passed away in 2021 at the age of 91.