China Champions Human Rights Protection in Africa

By Linda Mupemo 


Zhao Yating

A Chinese official has called for continued collaborative efforts in human rights protection in Africa and China. 

Chinese Academy of Social Sciences Assistant Research Fellow Zhao Yating noted that both Africa and China experienced western colonialism hence they value their human rights and understand the importance of safeguarding these rights.


Ms. Zhao stated that the shared experiences between Africa and China regarding human rights have shaped China’s support for human rights in Africa. 

She said China’s financial aid to Africa in various sectors such as infrastructure development, education and healthcare demonstrates China’s commitment to helping African countries create an environment where human rights can be enjoyed.


“Democracy and human rights are not castles in the air; they cannot be realised through mere rhetoric. They must be built on economic development, improved educational standards and increased awareness of democracy and the rule of law,” she said. 


Ms. Zhao, who is also a Fellow of West-Asian and African Studies, noted that the People’s Republic of China President Xi Jinping has shown his willingness to support Africa achieve the African Union’s Agenda 2063. 


She said the Agenda 2063 is a comprehensive continental development plan aimed at guiding Africa’s development with human rights as a key objective. 



 “President Xi Jinping operates on principles of sincerity, amity, good faith, pursuing the greater good and shared interests in developing China’s relations with Africa. He always emphasises the need to build a community of a shared future for mankind, “ she said. 


Ms. Zhai stated that the benefits of the China- Africa Cooperation have reached many households across African countries. 


She said China has helped African countries build a total of 6, 000 kilometers of railways, 6, 000 kilometers of highways and more than 80 large scale power facilities. 


She added that China has additionally assisted Africa in the construction of over 130 health facilities, 170 schools and 45 stadiums. 



“This positive cycle ultimately ensures that African people truly enjoy their human rights, with fairer opportunities for development and a brighter future. This is a concrete example of how the China - Africa Cooperation advances the cause for human rights, ” she said.



This is contained in a statement made available to ZANIS.





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