China’s Partnership with Africa in Focus at Drakensberg Inclusive Growth Forum
The spirit of collaboration between China and Africa took center stage at the Drakensberg Inclusive Growth Forum held on 11 October, where Ambassador Wu Peng reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to shared prosperity across the Global South.
Hosted by the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation, the annual gathering drew more than 400 delegates from political leaders and diplomats to academics and business figures all united by a common goal advancing inclusive, sustainable growth for developing nations.
In his address, Ambassador Wu underscored China’s approach to international cooperation as grounded in equality and mutual benefit. Speaking against the scenic backdrop of the Drakensberg mountains, he highlighted the Global Governance Initiative introduced by President Xi Jinping and reiterated China’s ongoing support for South Africa’s upcoming G20 presidency.
“China stands firmly with the Global South,” Ambassador Wu said. “We believe in growth that uplifts communities, strengthens sovereignty, and fosters fairness in global governance.”
The Ambassador also pointed to China’s zero-tariff policy for African countries as an example of concrete measures aimed at boosting trade and industrial development across the continent. He reflected on decades of China-Africa cooperation from infrastructure and energy projects to educational and health partnerships describing them as “living proof” of a relationship built on trust and shared vision.
Former President Kgalema Motlanthe, whose foundation launched the forum six years ago, welcomed the dialogue as an opportunity for developing nations to shape their own narratives. United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, and Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau were among the high-profile participants.
Delegates praised China’s role in promoting equitable global development and called for deeper collaboration between China, South Africa, and the wider African continent in areas such as green energy, digital innovation, and skills development.
Since its establishment in 2014, the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation has positioned the Drakensberg Inclusive Growth Forum as a platform for bridging ideas and action. This year’s discussions reflected a growing consensus: that the future of development lies not in aid dependency, but in partnerships that respect national priorities and drive inclusive transformation.
As the forum closed, there was a shared sense of optimism that South-South cooperation, powered by mutual respect and shared goals, could chart a new course for global development.
