Africa Day 2025: Renewing China-Africa Friendship with New Vitality
May 25, 2025 — A day that echoes with unity, independence, and shared identity across the African continent and its global diaspora. Africa Day is more than a date on the calendar; it’s a celebration of a journey toward freedom and a beacon for the future.
In an exclusive interview, Ambassador Rahmat Allah Mohamed Osman, the African Union’s Permanent Representative to China, shared his insights on the significance of Africa Day, the enduring legacy of African liberation, and the blossoming cooperation between Africa and China.
A Sacred Day of Unity and Liberation
“Africa Day is almost sacred,” Ambassador Osman remarked. “It’s a day when we reflect on our unity and the collective struggle against colonialism and apartheid.” Tracing its roots back to May 25, 1963, the founding of the Organization of African Unity—now the African Union—the day symbolizes the continent’s commitment to freedom and justice.
This year’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” underscores the global call to address historical injustices and promote fair treatment. “It’s about preserving the spirit of freedom for future generations,” the ambassador emphasized.
China’s Role in Africa’s Liberation and Development
Ambassador Osman highlighted China’s pivotal role in supporting Africa’s decolonization and development efforts. A landmark example is the construction of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) in the 1970s. When Western financial institutions declined to fund the project, China stepped in, despite its own economic challenges at the time.
“This railway was not only about transportation. It was about freedom, sovereignty, and dignity,” he said. The TAZARA became a lifeline for landlocked countries, helping them reduce reliance on colonial powers.
The African Union Strengthens Ties with China
As the continent’s leading regional body, the African Union (AU) plays a crucial role in fostering cooperation with China. The AU was the first regional organization to sign a Belt and Road cooperation agreement with China, joining the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in the early 2010s.
Today, the AU advocates for cross-border infrastructure and digital connectivity projects, many of which are supported through China-Africa partnerships. “The AU serves as a unifying voice, helping African nations coordinate strategies and ensure continent-wide benefits,” Ambassador Osman explained.
Learning from China’s Development Journey
Since his appointment as the AU’s first permanent representative to China in 2018, Ambassador Osman has observed China’s rapid development firsthand. From successful poverty alleviation campaigns to massive investments in infrastructure and innovation, China’s experience offers valuable insights.
“We can’t replicate it directly,” he acknowledged, “but we can certainly learn from it.” He emphasized the importance of adapting policy implementation, utilizing digital tools, and strategic economic planning tailored to Africa’s unique context.
Aligning Visions: Agenda 2063 and the Belt and Road Initiative
The AU’s Agenda 2063, known as “The Africa We Want,” outlines a long-term blueprint for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Ambassador Osman highlighted the alignment between Agenda 2063 and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), both launched in 2013.
“Both initiatives focus on connectivity, industrialization, and people-centered development,” he noted. China has become Africa’s number-one partner in mobilizing resources for continental goals. “African leaders see China not only as a funder but as a strategic partner in shaping our long-term transformation.”
Standing Together in a Changing World
In an era marked by global challenges like climate change, pandemics, and economic shocks, Ambassador Osman stressed the importance of multilateralism and solidarity among Global South nations. “No country can face these challenges alone,” he asserted. “Our strength lies in cooperation.”
As Africa Day 2025 is celebrated around the world, Ambassador Osman’s reflections serve as a powerful reminder of the shared past and the collaborative future between Africa and China. The renewed vitality in China-Africa friendship signals hope and progress for generations to come.
