South Africa's Minister of Social Development, Sisisi Tolashe (from left); Sussana Dantjie, the speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature and His Excellency, Ambassador Wu Peng. Photo: Supplied
In a demonstration of China’s unwavering commitment to strengthening ties with South Africa and addressing socio-economic challenges, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in South Africa hosted a significant donation event in Kgomo-Kgomo Village yesterday .
His Excellency, Ambassador Wu Peng, joined by South Africa's Minister of Social Development, Sisisi Tolashe, and North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, delivered 1 000 food hampers and 500 solar energy systems to local community members. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the consensus reached between Presidents Xi Jinping and Cyril Ramaphosa to combat poverty and promote sustainable development through the Poverty Alleviation Model Village Project.
The event underscores the strong partnership between China and South Africa, reflecting decades of shared goals, mutual respect and progress in addressing poverty.
In his address, Ambassador Wu Peng celebrated the enduring friendship between the two nations, describing it as a bond of “comrades and brothers.” He highlighted the transformative “Golden Era” of China-South Africa relations under the leadership of Presidents Xi and Ramaphosa.
“Poverty is not destined. Poverty is not unbeatable,” Ambassador Wu emphasised. He outlined China’s global poverty alleviation contributions, noting that China’s own experience in lifting 800 million citizens out of poverty has become a cornerstone of its international humanitarian efforts. He also reiterated China’s commitment to initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, projected to significantly reduce poverty globally by 2030.
The donation of food hampers and solar energy systems serves dual purposes: meeting immediate needs while paving the way for long-term sustainability. Solar energy systems, in particular, address critical energy access challenges in rural communities, empowering households with renewable power and reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
Minister Tolashe and Premier Mokgosi echoed the sentiments of Ambassador Wu, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in building resilient communities. Premier Mokgosi applauded the Chinese Embassy’s hands-on approach to supporting North West Province, while Minister Tolashe emphasised the alignment of this initiative with South Africa’s poverty alleviation and social development goals.
The event also included remarks from local leaders such as Mayor Manyike of Moretele Municipality, King Kgosi Nchaupe III Makapan and Chief Malebye of Kgomo-Kgomo Village. Community members expressed gratitude for the support, noting the direct impact of such initiatives on their lives, particularly as the festive season approaches.
As part of the broader Poverty Alleviation Model Village Project, this event marks a significant step toward realizing a shared vision of a high-level China-South Africa community with a shared future. Ambassador Wu reiterated the Embassy’s commitment to accelerating the development of the Model Village and a future of common prosperity.
BUSINESS REPORT