Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for more success stories like that of Musa Darboe, a Gambian farmer whose life transformed thanks to China’s hybrid rice technology. Speaking at a reception in Changsha, Hunan Province, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Wang highlighted the importance of deepening China-Africa ties to improve livelihoods across the continent.
Darboe shared his inspiring journey, recounting how the introduction of hybrid rice technology, developed by renowned Chinese scientist Yuan Longping, significantly boosted his rice yields. With support from Chinese agricultural experts, Darboe not only achieved prosperity but also helped his hometown overcome hunger.
“I brought my rice all the way from the Gambia to China to honor Yuan Longping,” Darboe said, expressing gratitude and a desire to learn more about China’s agricultural advancements. He aims to foster deeper cooperation between the two countries, promoting modernization and shared growth.
Wang Yi emphasized that enhancing the well-being of ordinary Africans is a key priority in China-Africa friendship. “We will continue to pursue shared interests and deliver tangible benefits to people across the African continent,” he stated.
Yuan Longping, hailed as the “father of hybrid rice,” made groundbreaking contributions to rice breeding. His innovations have not only bolstered China’s food security but also offered solutions to global hunger. Yuan’s legacy lives on through farmers like Darboe, who are reaping the rewards of his life’s work.
