Tag: CPC.

3rd Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the CPC: Announced New Reforms Will Ignite Global Cooperation

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By Allawi Ssemanda

From July 15 to 18, the third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) was held successfully in Chinese capital, Beijing. This plenum came at a time when the world is faced with grave and complex challenges such as slow economic recovery, confrontation, power politics by some countries, and block formation. It also came at a time when tens of thousands of people have died in avoidable wars like Israel’s war against Gaza which the UN has described as “terrible” and bringing the strip closure to “human catastrophe.”

The plenum saw discussion of a report on the work of the Political Bureau. President Xi Jinping who is also the General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee attended and made some important comments. At the end, the plenum unanimously adopted the Resolution of the Central Committee of the CPC re-affirming on “Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernisation.”

While one may argue that the third plenary session of the CPC Central Committee which is normally held once every five years concerns China alone, if critically analysed, it is of great significance not only to China but entire world. This is because, it is during this time that that the world’s second largest economy – China under the CPC leadership meet to plan and strategise for the country’s short and longterm socio-economic policies. As the second largest economy and Africa’s largest trading partner and financier of the continent’s most infrastructure projects, in all ways, policies made in Beijing also have direct bearing on economic development of the rest of the world.

Indeed, just a day after the commencement of the third Plenary Session of 20th Central Committee of the CPC, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the 16th July 2024 upgraded China’s 2024 economic growth forecast to 5% beating the U.S’ economic growth projection which IMF downgraded from April’s 2.7% to 2.6%. In the same forecast, IMF put 2024 growth forecast for the 20 Europe’s countries that share the euro currency at just 0.9%, while Japan’s outlook was downgraded from 0.9% to 0.7%!

Noting that Chinese economy has been doing well, the IMF attributed China’s continued good economic performance to among others what the IMF called China’s “program of of trading and equipment upgrade.” Announced in March this year, Beijing says the program will boost consumption and investment and growth at the same time.

When analysed, the adopted resolution which was announced in the communique talks about “Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernisation,” it is an open secret that religiously, China has not been selfish in their development plans and they have consistently executed plans and strategies that also look at the well being and development of the rest of the world. A case in point is the Global Development Initiative (GDI) announced by President Xi Jinping in 2021 to accelerate efforts in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of 2030. The GDI suggests ways to address key human challenges.

Also, China introduced the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which several studies have concluded is helping in sparking economic growth in all implementing countries. Indeed, a World Bank study – “How Much Will the Belt and Road Initiative Reduce Trade Costs?” conducted in 191 countries concluded that BRI projects have made trade easier in BRI participating countries by “reducing shipment times and trade costs at country-sector level.” BRI stands as a testament to China’s commitment to enhancing five connectivities or “five C” experts describe as key drivers of economic take off. The “five Cs” are; Policy Connectivity, Trade Connectivity, Infrastructure Connectivity, Financial Connectivity and; People-to-People Connectivity.

Such is enough evidence that while the 3rd Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the CPC primarily benefit, if well implemented such polices by all means have a significant contribution as far as economic development of the rest of the rest of the world is concerned.

Indeed, while describing China’s economic growth projection as positive on the 16th of July, the IMF observed that led by China, “Asia’s emerging market economies remain the main engine for the global economy” stressing that today, China and India  “accounts for almost half of global growth.”

“The very fact that China is also bigger, it means it has a bigger footprint in the rest of the world.  An increase in the trade surplus might be small from Chinese perspective, but it could be big from the perspective of the rest of the world,” emphasised IMF’s Division Chief researcher Jean-Marc.

Looking at the communique from the plenum, one can safely argue that the new reforms will generate economic growth opportunities and hence, a firm foundation as the country intensify efforts to become a modern socialist country by the mid-century.

From historical perspective, the opportunities these reforms will bring will as well benefit the world as we race to achieve the United Nations’s 2030 SDGs agenda. This is premised on the fact that for the last several decades, China’s economic growth has left different parts of the country enjoying the same benefits. For example, to date, the country remains a major source of  trade, investment, and innovation to the world especially the global south.

It is important to recall that, the  3rd plenary session of the 11th CPC Central Committee of 1978 introduced these reforms, laying a foundation to transform China from a peasantry and made it economic power house as the rest of the world shared benefits of China’s economic growth.

Today, the country’s economic transformation which came as a result of Beijing’s reforms has seen China’s over 800 million people lifted out of extreme poverty – a record praised by different scholars and UN as historic.

To conclude, from historical perspective and the current trend characterised by China’s desire of building a community of shared prosperity and a community of shared future for mankind, one can safely argue that the resolutions adopted at the just concluded 3rd Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the CPC will not only help shape China’s future but will help Ignite Global Cooperation and development in the new era.

The writer is a senior research fellow at the Development Watch Centre.

What is Good Governance? The Case of China

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By Moshi Israel

China’s governance system has long been a source of contention among Western political leaders. This microscopic focus on China has been fuelled by Washington’s excessive fear of everything communist. Many in the West believe that in a world dominated by capitalism and neoliberalism, a so-called communist or socialist country cannot and should not succeed. Capitalism’s entire existence as an infallible economic system is dependent on the public shaming and failure of other alternative economic systems. Furthermore, the West sees itself as having been the most successful democratic experiment since the inception of the democratic idea in Ancient Greece. As a result, unless it is an exact replica of Western conceptions of democracy, any other political system is a sham.

Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the People’s Republic of China (PRC) unexpectedly emerged as the exception to the norm, challenging existing conventional wisdom about how a country should develop and be governed. China’s success lies at the heart of its uniqueness, and it would not have been on the radar of the West if it had failed, as most other countries that have experimented with alternate forms of governance have.

However, China has arrived, demonstrating unequivocally that capitalism and Westernization are not the only roads to prosperity, nor is Western democracy the only good system of governance. There is nothing wrong with Western democracy; the fault is with the Western political class, which believes that their form of government is the only correct one.

To resolve this dispute, people must first ask themselves, “What is governance?” What, more specifically, is good governance?  If, as many in the West believe, China’s system of governance is flawed, we should apply the good governance test to it. To do so, we must first define what good governance is, what it includes, and how China measures up to it. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate that China is a democratic and well-governed country; this is not to imply that China’s style of government is flawless, just as it is absurd for the West to argue that their system is the only right one.

Most rational individuals and groups would like to live in a society that is well-governed. Good governance is a continuous process that needs to be pursued consistently. Therefore, no country is perfect because good governance requires constant improvement which adapts to contemporary realities and anticipates future challenges. We can all agree that a well-governed country should be developed or developing, its citizens should be fairly prosperous and well-provided for in most aspects of their lives, its institutions should be efficient, the country’s administration should be inclusive and participatory, the country should be stable and governed by the rule of law, development should be sustainable and environmentally friendly, and the government should have a strategic vision for the future and must be able to build consensus.

China has been governed by a single party, the CPC, since the revolution. The CPC’s manner of governance combines Marxist concepts, traditional Chinese customs, and elements of Western systems to establish a socialist government with Chinese characteristics. The CPC has presided over China’s remarkable economic progress, and one of its major successes has been the emancipation of nearly a billion people from absolute poverty. The CPC has succeeded in establishing political consensus in China, with its policies widely supported and the majority of its inhabitants satisfied with the country’s course. The party is a coherent body that is led from the top but has a strong grassroots core. Every decision is decided by the party, with other democratic parties serving as consultants.

China considers itself a developing country, even though it is the second largest economy in the world, it is a global manufacturing hub with about 28% of global output and is largely known as the world’s factory. This has enabled the country to be relatively rich.

China’s whole process people’s democracy is an effective system of governance that ensures everyone is included and participates in the administration of the country. Cities in China, for example, have suggestion boxes where residents can leave their concerns and recommendations for public officials. These issues are frequently resolved in a timely manner. Within 48 hours after expressing their concerns, the complainant is contacted, and a further 48 hours are employed to examine the issue and uncover viable remedies. Few other governments, if any, can do this, demonstrating the effectiveness of Chinese public institutions and the effective responsiveness of public officials. Public authorities may be promoted or recognized for each problem satisfactorily resolved.

Furthermore, China is a technology powerhouse, with 5G and significant expenditures in renewable energy technologies. The country has committed to reaching carbon neutrality and peaking by 2030, and it is continually cleaning up its air. Chinese society is increasingly being constructed for long-term green growth. China leads in the adoption of EVs, accounting for about 60% of all newly registered electric vehicles in 2022. Moreover, China is very competitive when it comes to the development of AI technology, second only to the United States. Recent US sanctions against China over chip-making technology have mostly backfired, and China is now becoming self-sufficient in the chip-making market. The CPC’s emphasis on green development is the essence of good governance since it shows that the government prioritizes the long-term safety and well-being of its citizens. Because the climate change threat is existential, it demands dedicated political will to address and alleviate and China has shown exceptional readiness.

China is a politically stable country that is secure both internally and externally. Every citizen wishes to live in a mostly crime-free society regulated by the rule of law, which is equitably applied. China’s crime rate is quite low, and I don’t think anyone will feel comfortable invading China very soon. The infrastructure is first-rate and modern, effectively serving the people and contributing to economic development. In comparison to the United States and other European countries, China’s subway system is cutting-edge. It also has well-built, clean roads, airports, and bridges that have boosted connection throughout the country.

China’s population is properly educated, with the government providing 9 years of free education to all Chinese children. Its higher education is centered on graduating as many students as possible in STEM topics, ensuring that the next generation leads the country in science, technical innovation, and mathematics. This exemplifies the CPC’s long-term strategic strategy for its young people.

Overall, China checks the majority of the boxes for excellent governance. As the government’s leader, the CPC qualifies as a legitimate party with the people’s mandate. The right to a dignified life is the most important human right. It makes no sense to be allowed to vote but never receive the services for which you vote. What good is a democracy if it cannot meet the demands of its citizens?  The ultimate purpose of any democratic society is to ensure that its people are prosperous and happy and that they can look forward to the future with hope, assurance, and security. China performs quite well on this parameter, and hence, to any sensible person, the CPC runs a well-governed democratic country, the Chinese way.

The Writer is a Senior Research Fellow with the Development Watch Centre

 

The 74th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China: Celebrations are in Order

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By Moshi Israel

In 1949, then Chinese leader Mao Zedong declared the creation of the People’s Republic of China. A new era in China’s history begun under the stewardship of the Communist Party of China (CPC). A new kind of socialism with Chinese Characteristics took root. A new vision for a better China was still in its infancy and the building blocks were placed on top of one another, one by one. Fast forward, seventy-four years later, and the Peoples Republic of China is an entirely new country, with unprecedented development and a lot of potential for even more growth. The CPC revolutionized the thinking of the Chinese people, and placed them on a path of modernisation, that has been dubbed a miracle by many.

Several factors have contributed to China’s development, prominent among them being strategic government planning, service to the common people and rapid industrialization driven by a unique brand of political organization and mobilisation by the CPC. Opening up of China to the rest of the world put the Country on a healthy development path and by and large the CPC has managed to rid most Chinese of the colonial mindset that has held many developing countries back.

China today is a world giant that has put the rest of the world on a new agenda that emphasizes win-win partnerships, mutual benefits and peaceful development, with the aim of achieving a truly multipolar world. China has created the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that has taken the world by storm by increasing connectedness of the global trade routes with the aim of doing mutually beneficial business. Furthermore, the country has published several white papers laying out China’s vision on the Global Security Initiative (GSI), Global Development Initiative (GDI) and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). These initiatives, are China’s vision for a better world of today and tomorrow. They aim to achieve the ultimate Chinese ideals of cooperation and peaceful development.

During the celebrations of the 74th anniversary of the founding of China, organised by the Embassy of China in Uganda at Sheraton Hotel, I witnessed a profound display of China’s good will and respectful cooperation with our country – Uganda. There was a marvellous display of cultural fusion and a profound display of how Chinese people have adapted to the Ugandan scene. Both Chinese and Ugandans performed together cultural dances and songs that revealed to me how far our relations with China have come.

The speeches by China and Uganda’s government officials reflected on the already existing cooperation between the two countries and the potential for future engagements. China has proved to be a reliable partner to Uganda especially at a time when the latter is facing an impasse with western governments and their institutions. The issues of same sex relations and the construction of the EACOP pipeline has put Uganda at odds with western powers with the small African country courting the ire of powerful western regimes on grounds of ideological differences.

On a more positive note, the 74th celebrations of the founding of the PRC should serve to remind us of only the good times and encourage us to look further into the future when it comes to Uganda’s relations with China. Through trade and cultural cooperation, Uganda is already an established friend of China. The latter has taken steps to educate all developing countries on what it has been doing that has set it apart from other developing nations without following western models of development.

China is now among the leading countries in sustainable development issues, infrastructure development, trade and digital development. It is the duty of all countries seeking true independence and sustainable development to probe the ‘how and why?’. This is a point the deputy Ambassador, His Excellency Fan Xuencheng emphasized during his speech; China’s development under the Chinese context. That’s the mantra the Ugandan people should accommodate and practice.

As an African, I think there’s much we can learn from China’s development path and apply what we think can work for us. Perhaps, one can only hope that during the next anniversary of the founding of the PRC, that by that time, most of African countries will have taken the necessary steps to put their respective countries on a unique development path with African characteristics. Our Achilles heel lies is rampant corruption, a vice that our partners in China have fought vehemently and defeated.

The African mantra should be the undisputed theme of Adopting, Improvising and overcoming especially under current tensions with the west. Thank goodness, we have an ally like China to learn from.

Moshi Israel is a senior research fellow at the Development Watch Centre.

 

 

 

CELEBRATING CHINA-AFRICA’s WIN-WIN RELATIONS AS PRC TURNS 74

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By Steven Akabwayi

On Friday the 29th September, China started a week-long celebration dubbed the golden week. It is marked the 74th anniversary since Mao Zedong the chairman of the Communist Party of China (CPC) formally proclaimed the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in 1949.

Since then, relations between China and Africa have evolved considerably amidst the ideological struggle that culminated in the 1960s between the US, Russia, and China.

Though not strong ties as it is now, starting from the early 1980s, China has always placed great importance to relations with African countries. Arguably, at the start of the start of the millennia China’s relations with Africa and the rest of global south started growing at a speed never seen before.

China is currently Africa’s largest trading partner, experts observe that trade between the US and Africa has been declining over the past years, this has been largely attributed to China’s warm approach to Africa over the years.

The Sino-Africa relations were established based on a win-win philosophy, under this philosophy, China vowed to treat Africa with the spirit of sincerity, genuine cooperation, and mutual respect which has been a thread linking China and Africa for more than the past seven decades.

Western countries on the other hand have failed to recognize Africa as their equal resulting in unfair treatment and lack of mutual respect, the West still views Africa as a place of humanitarian crisis and a battleground for ideological competition between global powers. It is not a surprise that in May 2000, United Kingdom’s Magazine the Economist described Africa as a “Hopeless Continent.” Today, one can safely argue that with China’s win-win cooperation philosophy guided by President Xi Jinping’s promoted principles of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith and the principles of pursuing the greater good and shared interests, China-Africa relations have seen the continent become the centre of attraction and that some western countries see it as a battle ground for the west and China.

Just like a famous internet meme reads, “When China is in Africa, it’s talking about trade but when the US is in Africa, it’s talking about China”.

Since its founding in 1949, the PRC’s role in Africa has defied and continued to expose Western-engineered stereotypes and fallacies that intend to blackmail China-Africa relations as a one-sided favor for China.

Beijing has continued to express itself as a long-established diplomatic partner and key investor in the African continent for the past 74 years.

In one of his interviews in 2022, Uganda’s president Kaguta Museveni demystified allegations commonly peddled by Western countries that Beijing expands its influence by drawing smaller economies into a debt trap.

“Africa has been having problems for the last 600 years due to the slave trade, colonialism, neocolonialism, and none of it was from China,” he said.

Since the 1960s, Uganda and China have enjoyed deep and sound diplomatic relations, the two countries are glued together by strong economic relations which have been significantly bolstered by the Belt and Road Initiative in the past decade increasing trade between the two countries to about a billion USD.

President Museveni further hailed China for having maintained tight coordination and collaboration with Uganda for over 60 years through numerous joint projects.

China has invested in all major sectors that are critical for Africa’s economic transformation and integration drive.

Chinese investments in Africa encompass infrastructure development such as roads notably the Entebbe- Kampala express highway in Uganda, the Railway line connecting Adis Ababa and Djibouti, the Mombasa -Nairobi standard gauge railway, Karuma dam in Uganda, telecommunication networks among other infrastructures.

These projects have paved the way for years of commercial and economic engagements throughout the continent.

Chinese state-owned agencies and financing institutions have always acted as a friend in need for African countries by supplying soft loans to African countries on critical projects that require heavy funding that cannot not contained in most African countries’ national budgets.

After most Western financing institutions recently pulling out from funding the East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) whose plan is to transport crude oil from the Albertine region to the Indian Ocean, a Chinese company stepped in to save the project.

Mrs Irene Bateebe permanent secretary under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development in Uganda confirmed that Sinosure, the Chinese state-owned provider of export credit insurance is working with Exim Bank to provide the largest funding for the pipeline.

As one way of ensuring food security in Uganda, China has supported agricultural projects geared towards agricultural modernization. Under the FOA-China Uganda South-South Corporation Project, Uganda’s agriculture ministry has been supported in quality seed breeding and cultivation of a variety of quality seeds such as rice, sorghum, maize among others. These have been availed to various districts to support smallholder farmers.

As China aims at a multipolar world and reform of global governance as opposed to America’s hegemony, Beijing has found it necessary to maintain developing countries as a bedrock and strategic focus of its foreign policy until the existing capability gap between third-world and developed nations is narrowed.

China has recently also shown unrivaled support for the African Continental Free Trade Area and AU’s accession to the G20 by pressuring Western countries that dominated the club.

China’s foreign policy to Africa has won the hearts of many African leaders given its nonexpansionist and conflict-averse approach. This has enabled it to foster a community based on cooperative security, common development, and political inclusiveness for the past decades since its founding.

For years, China has developed solid ties with African governments, this is demonstrated by the quality and number of high-level exchange visits, and support China receives from African countries at the United Nations and other international forums.

Steven Akabwayi is a Research Fellow at the Development Watch Centre.

 

The 74 Anniversary of The Founding of People’s Republic of China: What It Means to Africa

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By Alan Collins Mpewo

The 74th anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China is a significant date for both China and Africa. It was on October 1st 1949 when then Chinese Communist leader Mao Zedong announced the creation of People’s Republic of China (PRC). This big announcement which in many ways resulted into the birth of today’s modern China came as a result of the Chinese Communist Party defeating the Nationalists in the civil war, a development that saw the Communist Party of China (CPC) control over China the country fully recognised as nationalists surrendered and a few others fled. While the announcement was seen as China’s, if critically analysed, it was also significant for Africa, as it signaled the beginning of a new era of Chinese history and Africa’s relations with China. Since that time, the Peoples Republic of China has become one of Africa’s most important partners, providing much-needed economic and political support. The relationship between China and Africa has grown steadily over the past few decades, and today the two sides enjoy close cooperation on a range of issues.

The 74th anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China thus holds great significance for both China and Africa. It is a day to celebrate the strong ties between our two countries and to look forward to even closer cooperation in the future. But 74 years is not a disposable feat. Since the 1’st of October in the not so past 74 years, the major message that has been sang by the People’s Republic of China has been independence for its partners – Africa states and otherwise.

For African communities, the 74th anniversary of the founding of China marks not only a celebration of Chinese culture, but also provides a glimpse into what the future of African-Chinese exchanges and collaborations could achieve. Through the continued development of enriching bilateral ties, both sides stand to benefit greatly as the years go by. It can not be said in tire that the under the belt and road initiative, China has made an incredible impact on infrastructure in many African countries, with Shanghai based construction engineering firm China State Construction Engineering Corporation building many new rail networks, roads, schools, and hospitals across the continent. This has no doubt had profound impacts on local communities, who now have access to regular healthcare, education, and transportation that wouldn’t have been so easily available without China’s intervention.

The People’s Republic of China has also been an important trading partner for many African countries, particularly those in Southern and Eastern Africa. China’s entrance into the African market has made it a valuable trading partner, with Chinese goods being shipped in to supplement the continent’s domestic markets, creating much-needed jobs and revenues for producers, the distributors, and sellers alike.

For much of the past century, China and its people have made a concerted effort to strengthen relations with African countries, providing aid, opportunities for investment and mutual growth, and trade agreements. This relationship has only grown over time, with officials from both sides recognizing the importance of bolstering cooperation between African and Chinese communities. As such, the founding of the People’s Republic of China represents a landmark moment for Africans, providing hope that the future will bring great economic, political, and social progress.

Besides all the outstanding achievements reached thus far by the two bloc partners, the caution of consciousness has to be elevated past lands and generations ahead. The human race is much more than the political baits that present themselves. Colonialism didn’t end in the final period of the 1900’s. The phenomenon is multifaceted, and presently comes in large scale neocolonialism. The origin of the celebration by the PRC is based on the yearn for independence, and ultimately no other. Independence is not one to be achieved without much effort, and so while it is understandable that there has been much complacency by those supposed to propel the fight, there should be no compromise to achieving the ultimate goals. BRICS has taken out a line of agreement against the leading imperialism and double standards, an initiative that includes a push from China.

Therefore, with the birth of the FOCAC was a clear indication of respect to each State’s sovereignty through partnerships and mutual benefits, it is of no doubt that the relations have attracted more new entrants each year that succeeds another. Uganda has been one of the greatest beneficiaries, and one of the oldest to relate with PRC diplomatically having passed the 60 years mark of diplomacy not so long ago. There is therefore no need to overemphasize what the two blocs have achieved and what stands as an open door yet to be used. But along the way, still stands obstacles of imperialism and self-seeking to navigate past. So, while this period is to be hoisted with significance on the past, it can sincerely be hoped that it will shape the future for the two blocs to more successes.

Alan Collins Mpewo, Senior Research Fellow, Development Watch Centre.

 

China’s Cooperation with Africa is a Win-win Cooperation

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By Arnold Katende Ricky and Ssemanda Abdurahim

Dear Editor, on Thursday 27th July 2023 Sino-Uganda Research Centre, a Ugandan Think Tank dedicated to analysis of Uganda’s foreign policy and diplomacy in international milieux with focus on China-Uganda relations left me deeply thinking much about China-Uganda cooperation.  The symposium which ran under the theme “A New Era of China-Africa Relations: What is in it For Uganda?” saw different scholars and researchers discussing different topics among others China’s development path to modernisation and what lessons can Uganda and Africa in general draw from it, and role of women in development among others.

Partly organised to discuss likely implications of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in regard to China-Africa Cooperation as well as the outcomes of the China-Uganda cooperation, Sino-Uganda Research Centre released results for research entitled “perceptions about China-Uganda Relations: Public and Key Stakeholder’s Perspectives,” towards China-Uganda relations. The findings showed that majority of Ugandans are happy and support China-Uganda cooperation with 76% of Ugandans commending China’s role in supporting Uganda’s development plans especially through infrastructure funding support crediting the support for improving the countries road sector, creating employment opportunities to Ugandan and training as well as offering scholarship opportunities.

While according to Sino-Uganda Research Centre, only 22% of Ugandans believe China’s loaning terms to Uganda are fair, with the discussion of China’s development assistance, one can conclude that this area is always left out by Ugandans and Africans in general to be analysed and discussed by western media who arguably always want to criticise China’s engagement with the rest of the world. This is partly because; by playing a positive role in economic development of developing countries, China shrinks the so-called traditional development partners’ role who are largely western countries and secondly, because in most of Chinese funding are implemented by Chinese firms, a negative narrative is created since these Chinese firms take contracts which western countries firms normally want. Therefore, the negative feeling of Chinese loans to African countries should always be expected because of western media narratives and propaganda.

Indeed, Professor Timothy Kerswell of Chinese University of Hong Kong explained that most of negative views towards Chinese loans are as a result of what he described as “penetration of the so-called ‘Western Debt’ trap Narrative” which lacks facts.

While lauding Sino-Uganda Research Centre for investing time and resources in research that focuses on shaping Uganda’s interests, the First Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda and Minister for East African Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, who represented the Vice President Jessica Alupo under scored importance of researchers and think tanks being independent while conducting their work. She stressed that; “aware that credible and independent research is very important in guiding policy formulation and implementation, I would like to encourage and urge you to make sure that your work is done in total observance of the principle of independence in research for the benefit of Uganda, China, and the world.”

Kadaga stressed that for the last 61 years, China and Uganda have enjoyed good relations which has seen China’s continued support to Uganda in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, health, industry, and energy sectors emphasised Uganda government is commitment to strengthen ties between the two countries.

Speaking at the same occasion, Chinese ambassador to Uganda, Zhang Lizhong, explained that the Chinese Path to Modernisation is socialist modernisation under the leadership of the CPC, and emphasised that it is “based on China’s national reality, and draws on other countries’ experience.” Ambassador Lizhong argued that as part and parcel of humanity’s modernisation, Chinese modernisation path contains what he described as “elements that are common to other countries’ modernisation, such as industrialisation, urbanisation, greater democracy, and rule of law. Meanwhile, it also has unique Chinese features as it is rooted in the Chinese context.”

If we critically analyse ambassador Lizhong’s words in regard to China’s development path, it is not a surprise that when China announced that the country had eliminated extreme poverty, United Nations described the rate at which China achieved this as a record time. The point of emphasis here is that China took a path that that is/was compatible to the country because, their development path is/was “based on China’s national reality.”

Upon that background and recalling the failed structural adjustment programs (SAPs) which Bretton Woods Institutions particularly the International Monetary Fund (IMF) imposed on Africa, it looks clear that China’s path to development if considered may be the magic bullet for African countries to attain development and modernisation, more importantly, modernisation. Put differently, while African countries may learn from other countries’ development path, it is important that like China which decided to take a development path with Chinese characteristics or which is compatible with their national realities, African countries must also take a path that is compatible with our national realties but not simply following any program as it was in 1980s when IMF forced many of developing countries especially in Africa and Latin America to follow SAPs.

The other interesting revelation was arguments by Ambassador Lizhong that China’s modernisation path is premised on a view that modernisation should not be considered as a reserve of one country or individual stressing that Chinese modernisation is the modernisation of common prosperity for all, and will open up a broader path to common development of all countries. “Modernisation should not make the rich richer and the poor poorer. Common prosperity for the whole world requires prosperity of all countries,” argued ambassador Lizhong.

In a nutshell, looking at China’s continuous engagement with African countries and Chinese leaders’ consistency in their communication, there is no reason to doubt or question China’s relations with Africa. As a Ugandan, I have no reason to conclude that as Africans let’s joint our hands together, to open up a new chapter of China-Ugandan friendship of solidarity, friendship and cooperation, and jointly build the China-Ugandan and China-Africa Community of Shared Future in the New Era!

Arnold Katende Ricky and Ssemanda Abdurahim are Research Fellows at The Development Watch Centre.

Strategic Government Planning is at the Root of China’s Modernisation

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By Moshi Israel

The path of China to modernisation is a tale of perseverance, strategic planning, reform and whole process democracy. It is a path trodden by all the people of china with the Communist Party of China (CPC) leading the way. China’s path to modernisation should be a revered blueprint for other developing countries. It is testament to the fact that with a determined population and an organized government that appreciates its own contemporary and historical context, development can be achieved at the highest level.

Before the communist revolution in 1949, China like other impoverished countries struggled to find its identity. The country was stuck in the murky waters of constant civil wars, the opium wars, colonialism and years of humiliation. The advent of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) under Chairman Mao ushered in a new era of strategic ambition for the Chinese. Since then, the CPC has been at the forefront of efforts to turn china into a modern, developed and advanced socialist country with Chinese characteristics.

During this year’s April 21st Opening Ceremony of the Lanting Forum on Chinese Modernisation and the World in Shanghai, H.E State Councillor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang gave a keynote speech in which he uttered these immortal words that capture the spirit of China’s Modernisation path;

“A towering tree grows from its roots, and a long river flows from its source. Likewise, our success in Chinese modernization was not handed down from the heaven or just emerged by itself. It has been attained step by step through determined, painstaking efforts of the Chinese people under the leadership of the CPC always staying true to its founding mission. Chinese modernization is deeply rooted in Chinese history, practices and philosophies.”

The above quote should be framed and hanged on the walls of all policy makers in all developing countries. Words are the building blocks for action. A careful study especially here in Uganda of China’s path to modernisation can yield inspiration in various forms and put the country on a similar path. This path should involve all Ugandans and should be led by a government invested in long-term strategic planning.  One avenue to study are the characteristics of China’s path to Modernisation.

The first characteristic involves the fact that china’s modernisation covers a huge population of well over a billion people (1.4b). The lifting of millions of people out of absolute poverty is not only an advantage for China but also helps the world at large. The more people out of poverty, the more the world realizes its sustainable development goals expressed through the United Nations. Also, China has over 50 nationalities and a vast territory which in most cases is a recipe for disaster. However, all these diverse peoples have been well integrated into a development program that leaves no one behind. This is not easy to achieve but should serve as an example to a country like Uganda which also boasts numerous ethnicities and tribes. Cultural diversity is a strength and not a weakness.

Secondly, China’s modernisation involves common prosperity for all. This involves the reduction and elimination of the gap between the rich and poor. China’s President Xi Jinping commonly says “The Country is the people, and the people is the country.”  No country can achieve development without involving its people. For instance, China has established the world’s largest compulsory education system, social security system and health system. This prosperity is not relegated to the Chinese people but also extended globally to include Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. Initiatives such as the Belt and Road (BRI), FOCAC and GDI are China’s embrace of prosperity with the rest of the world.

Also, another characteristic of China’s modernisation path is the modernisation of Material and Cultural-Ethical advancement. It is rooted in Karl Marx’s philosophy of all-round development of the human being. China recognises the importance of material abundance in building a modern socialist country. However, to avoid the social breakdown in some other developed countries, the Chinese also value and implement Cultural-ethical advancement that focuses on upholding morality and social values to build a well-balanced material and Spiritual state.

The fourth characteristic of china’s modernisation honours the link between humanity and nature. The world today is seemingly united in the fight against the existential crisis of climate change. China has been taking major steps in curbing its carbon emissions. It has also pushed for sustainable development and promised to achieve carbon dioxide peaking and neutrality. This is an area in which, many developing countries are facing challenges and require extensive research and investment. Fortunately, China is also looking to address this global challenge through the ‘Belt and Road Green Development International Alliance.’

Last but not least, the Chinese path to modernisation is a path of peaceful development. A world without conflicts is an ideal world for all involved. It is a safe world for development and it is especially important for developing nations. China rejects the old notions of development through war, plunder and destruction of others. Vital to Chinese interests is a peaceful world in which to conduct relations. Therefore, china advocates for mutual respect and win-win partnerships. China’s credentials as a peace advocate have been enormously boosted by the recent brokering of the Saudi-Iran peace deal that had a positive effect on conflicts in the Middle East.

It is therefore, vital for developing nations to study China’s modernisation path that elevated it from a century of humiliation to a modern economic and political power house slated to overtake the United States as the largest economy in the world.  It is important to note that when the cold war ended in 1991, western countries were jubilant and celebrated the victory of capitalism. Several scholars labelled it the ‘end of history,’ because capitalism was the sole system driving human civilization. However, China through the strategic planning of the CPC and Chinese people produced a miracle, it achieved in a few decades, a kind of development that took western countries thousands of years. China’s modernisation is proof that there is more than one way to achieve development.

The Writer is a Research Fellow with the Development Watch Centre

 

 

 

China’s development model: Lessons for Uganda and Africa

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By Allawi Ssemanda.

Dear Editor, during a symposium on the implication of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) under the theme, “Forge Ahead on the New Journey and Work Together for A New Era,” Chinese ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong introduced Chinese path to development to Ugandan think tanks and journalists describing it as the major engine that saw China transform from a poor developing country to become the world’s second largest economy.  Ambassador Lizhong explained that as a developing country, China decided to not to move with the so-called common model of modernisation and embraced path of modernisation with Chinese characteristics.

Following a Chinese development path with Chinese characteristics, China ‘has united and led the whole country, and the people in solving many challenging problems that were long on the agenda but never resolved, making many achievements that concerned the nation’s future. As we completed the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects and achieved the first centenary Goal, China’s economic strength, scientific and technological strength, comprehensive national strength and international influence continued to grow. In 2021, China’s economic aggregate reached 114.4 trillion-yuan, accounting for more than 18 percent of the global economy,’ ambassador Lizhong emphasised.

With glaring achievements China has registered which includes being the first country globally to eliminate absolute poverty at a record time, arguably, such a path is way to go for developing countries like Uganda which is still grappling with poverty and key social service delivery.

Following Chinese path to modernisation with Chinese characteristics, China under leadership of CPC has been able to “accomplished the arduous task of eliminating extreme poverty. We have built the world’s largest education system, social security system and medical system, Chinese people’s lives have improved in all respects,” stressed ambassador Lizhong.

Upon that background and recalling the failed structural adjustment programs (SAPs) which International Monetary Fund (IMF) imposed on Africa, it looks clear that China’s path to development if considered may be the magic bullet for African countries to attain development and modernisation, more importantly, modernisation with “African characteristics”.

But how does China’s path to modernisation look like? What are some of its characteristics? Does it really suit African countries needs or, is it best model for African countries?

In his report to CPC’s 20th national assembly, Sectary General Xi Jinping highlighted what he described as systematic exposition of the unique features and essential requirements of China’s modernisation:

Firstly, the Chinese path is the modernisation of a huge population of the more than 1.4 billion people in china; Secondly, China’s path is the modernisation of common prosperity for all. Explaining that the immutable goal of China’s modernisation drive is to meet the people’s aspirations for a better life, Beijing stresses that China “will endeavour to maintain and promote social fairness and justice, bring prosperity to all, and prevent polarisation.” China argues that achieving common prosperity is a defining feature of socialism with Chinese characteristics and involves a long historical process; thirdly, China’s emphasises that “while continuing to consolidate the material foundation for modernisation and improve the material conditions for people’s wellbeing, we will strive to develop advanced socialist culture, foster strong ideals and convictions, and carry forward China’s cultural heritage.”

The other key characteristics of China’s development path are; the modernisation of harmony between humanity and nature. Here, China commitment that its modernisation “lies in building a beautiful homeland for man and nature to live in harmony.” Lastly, China’s path to development stresses modernisation of peaceful development. Ambassador Lizhong argues that “Chinese path to modernisation emphasises mutual benefit and win-win cooperation with other countries including Uganda, promotes the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, and strives to contribute to peace and development of mankind. China will not tread the old path of war, colonisation, and plunder taken by some countries. That brutal and blood-stained path of enrichment at the expense of others caused great suffering for the people of developing countries.”

From the above, we learn that in pursuit for her development, China put her national interests first; focused on internal political concerns; and maintained firm strategic resolve with determination to never yield to coercive power as the country sought its development.

Also, from China’s path to modernisation, Uganda and Africa in general can learn that you don’t loose your identity in order to modernise. China blended modernisation to its traditions. For example, despite modernisation the country is going through, to date, family hierarchy in China is respected. It is the same rational spread throughout other institutions in context of respect.

Put differently, Chinese development path has Chinese characteristics that “to developed as a country and people they have to drink from Chinese traditions in order to tap modernity. Not to just take modernity for its sake which would leave their country at risk of losing their identity through socialisation.

For Uganda and Africa in general, in Chinese development model we have an opportunity to learn from them but we must ask questions like; Yes, we need to be modern but what is it that it speaks to our minds and our hearts in this modernisation? What is in that is Ugandan/African? This way, Uganda and African can study from Chinese model and pick lessons from what can work for Uganda or Africa to develop.

Good enough is that China does not force other countries to take what they do not believe in. At the Embassy’s symposium, ambassador Lizhong explained that “China’s modernisation goes beyond copying others” stressing that “it is an independent path to development. For modernisation, there does not exist a single definitive model. Copying mechanically is not the solution. China’s modernisation is socialist modernisation pursed under the leadership of the CPC. It has broken down the stereotyped thinking of equating to the modernisation with Westernisation, proving irrefutably that developing countries are capable of independently treading the path to modernisation that works.”

Personally, if asked, western or Chinese modernisation? I definitely would say as Africans we can choose to learn from Chinese model and we blend it with African characteristics.

Allawi Ssemanda is a senior research fellow at the Development Watch Centre.

 

People at The Centre of Xi Jinping’s CPC’s National Congress Report

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By Allawi Ssemanda.

On Sunday October 16th, Chinese president Xi Jinping opened the highly anticipated 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) which is ongoing at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. In his 105 minutes speech, President Xi who doubles as CPC party Secretary General put Chinese people at the centre of his speech and broadly his governance.

In his report entitled “Hold High the Great Banner of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics and Strive in Unity to Build a Modern Socialist Country in All Respects,” President Xi explained, “this country is its people. The people are the Country. As the Communist Party of China has led the people in fighting to establish and develop the People’s Republic, it has really been fighting for the people’s support and bringing benefits to the people is the fundamental principle of governance,” President Xi emphasised.

The central point here is that, President Xi clearly knows that to lead well his country and help it move to what CPC sees as the ideal step, or to successfully start and walk CPC’s dream of a “New Journey of the New Era” and accelerate the creation of a new development pattern while pursuing high-quality development which he mentioned, ultimately, he needs the support and cooperation of people and thus, he promised that Chinese government would do all it takes to serve interests of the citizens. “We must strive to realize, safeguard, and advance the fundamental interests of all our people. To this end, we must do everything within our capacity to resolve the most practical problems that are of the greatest and most direct concern to the people. We will continue to improve the system of income distribution, implement the employment-first strategy, improve the social security system, and advance the Healthy China Initiative,” Xi stressed.

Further, President Xi told the delegates that CPC is committed to promoting and supporting advancement of “Whole-Process People’s Democracy” and ensuring that the people run the country. “We will continue to strengthen the institutions through which the people run the country, fully develop consultative democracy, actively develop democracy at the primary level, and consolidate and develop the broadest possible patriotic united front,” Xi emphasised.

From historical perspective, China’s concept of whole-process people’s democracy is not new. It is actually a major proposition put forward by CPC’s General Secretary Xi Jinping put forward based on the development of democracy in China and it is included in the communique of the 19th Central Committee of the CPC arising from its sixth plenary session held from 8th to 11th, November 2021.

While China has at times been criticised especially by the west claiming that Beijing is not a democracy, China has always argued that Democracy is not an exclusive patent of Western countries and therefore cannot and should not be defined and dictated by Western countries. Xu Lin, the deputy director of the publicity of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of State Council Information Office argues that after reviewing the gains and losses of political development at home and abroad, CPC keenly realised that China’s political civilisation and political system must be deeply rooted in China’s society and that it cannot work for China to copy the political systems of other countries. Xu Lin maintain that democracy is, “at its core, all about the people running the country.” If critically analysed, this may explain why in his speech Xi maintained that people must be at centre-stage of running affairs of their country.

Another key observation from President Xi’s report to CPC’s ongoing national conference is his diction. In language and communication, choice of words used by speaker(s) matter. And in International Relations, words of a leader matter. In his close to two hours address, at no time did president Xi use the word “I”.  His speech was largely characterised by “we” signalling that despite being the President and party Secretary General, Xi is not running a one man’s show. Put differently, it means as a party in government, when it comes to making decisions and governance, CPC is inclusive and arguably follows democratic principles of consulting, listening and working with majority than one individual. Going by words of Peter Drucker; Xi is an effective leader and a team player: “The leaders who work most effectively, never say “I.” And that’s not because they have trained themselves not to say “I.” They don’t think “I.” They think “we”; they think “team,” and their challenge is to make their team deliver.

On the international scene, president Xi indicated China’s readiness in promoting Global Peace and Development and Building a Human Community with a Shared Future. At a time when the world is faced challenges such as Ukraine crisis, sky rocketing energy prices and experts predicting poor economic recovery this year and the coming year, what the world needs to listen too are commitments from global leaders committing to support and protect peace and global development, consultation, and win-win cooperation; Leaders who are against group politics and block confrontation, conflict, coercion and zero-sum games.  Put differently, the world needs to hear leaders who speak and promote dialogue and diplomacy not block formation and or cold war mentality. On this, arguably, President Xi directly spoke wishes of peace and development lovers which signals statesmanship.

While he spoke for peace and dialogue in addressing issues, President Xi also exhibited a picture of a leader who is ready to guard and protect interests of his country vowing to uphold and improve the Policy of One Country, two systems and promoting national reunification.

The biggest applause throughout his speech came when he stated: “The wheels of history are rolling on toward China’s reunification and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Complete reunification of our country must be realised, and it can, without doubt, be realised.”  Citing

1971 United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and other historical facts, China maintains that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and always  wants to unite it with the mainland. Chinese people cast this as a sacred mission which should be completed. “We will continue to strive for peaceful reunification with the greatest sincerity and the utmost effort, but we will never promise to renounce the use of force, and we reserve the option of taking all measures necessary,” Xi declared. All this shows that China is willing to do anything it takes to complete its unification be peaceful or otherwise.

Conclusively, President Xi’s speech largely focused on people, development, peace, democracy and environment as China seeks to cooperate and work with the world to build a Human Community with a Shared Future and common prosperity.

Allawi Ssemanda,PhD is a Senior Research Fellow at Development Watch Centre.

 

Xi Jinping’s report to the 20th National Congress of the CPC: Lessons for Uganda and Africa

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By Alan Collins Mpewo

The Communist Party of China (CPC) is currently holding its 20th National Congress at the Great Hall of the people of Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping who doubles as party secretary general on behalf of CPC delivered to the Congress a report entitled “Hold High the Great Banner of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics and Strive in Unity to Build a Modern Socialist Country in All Respects.”

The report was so rich in as far as nationalism goes, but also addressed the contemporary issues that surrounding China within the greater global environment. There’s a lot of lessons to pick for the Global South, and specifically Uganda. China and its nationalists have metamorphosed the art of planning for the future while circumstances permit. This was equally showcased in the report. The aims for achieving endless innovation and creations on the new era, while also appreciating China’s relations with other global actors.

Culture is a commonly emphasized phenomenon, and there’s hardly a chance of not noticing Chinese culture whenever an individual meets Chinese Nationals. This ideal has for decades now been a foundation for running the Chinese society and governance systems. It’s one of the ideals that Uganda should look out for. An incorporation of the Uganda people’s ideals in administrative structures such as “Ubuntu – I am, because you are,” togetherness and always having second opinions before undertaking to fulfill some actions or omissions.

In President Xi Jinping’s words, he noted that “corruption is a cancer.” Uganda, just like numerous other countries in the world have for decades been struggling with ridding the vice from their communities. In some social spaces, it may have one thinking that it’s a common norm, and not a vice. China undertook the importance of such a robust fight against it, and because of that, it’s of no surprise that China is currently one of the leading economies. Uganda should therefore fast track and assert a better place on the global corruption index.

In his close to two hours speech, Xi emphasized the long Chinese tradition that “the country is its people.” This introduces the aspect of respect for governance structures and the understanding that without the citizens in a country, much would soon crumble. This, African countries can learn from that above ideal since it’s foundational especially in the arena of observance of fundamental human rights and freedoms. Whereas it’s not an indictment, most of countries in the global south have for long had challenges in appreciating the aspect of “country being its people” and such gives them a bad look. We can look at our shortcomings and find a common ground of reconciling with the fact that much efforts are still required to endeavor every citizen feels assertive of their connection to the country.

China’s national policy for opening up to the outside world was also reiterated. With this, China understands the role of international relations. Each year, China makes sure to create mutually beneficial new relations with the far global lands. With Uganda, China formed these relations as early as the 1960’s, yet still in 2022, the two countries are celebrating 60 years of diplomacy. This aspect shouldn’t be undermined and it has many lessons for Uganda to learn. The ability of making new relations with global actors, while maintaining them for many years is something not so many countries have managed to achieve. Often times, some of these countries end up being dictatorial onto other states.

Xi’s report re-emphasized respect for the other countries that China deals with. But while at it, China views the countries it relates with as partners while being guided by the principle of mutual respect. On global stage, other world players like the US should embrace that aspect of respecting other countries they deal with to ensure tranquility rather than seeking dominance, hegemony and confrontations and cold war mentality.

The report guides as to how far China has gone in as far as easing economic relationships with other global actors. Because of that, the economy has been infested with great strides in development. Numerous opportunities have also been created for the Chinese Nationals in other many partner states that China relates well with.

Lastly, the report highlighted a major, perhaps the most important aspect of the new prospective era – Technology advancement. As far as global growth goes, technology is the future, and without a doubt, the countries that fail to cope with the shifts, will face more complex times ahead. Uganda and African countries in general should also look at the aspect of planning for the future. Sparking a new revolution of science and technology through impactful research and government support for the many budding innovators within our countries. Uganda has a lot of potential in setting a revised approach to this phenomenon. Technology sharing would therefore be in sight if Uganda supports its STEM innovators and perhaps someday, Uganda, just like China, would become a benchmark as far as innovation goes.

Alan Collins Mpewo, is a lawyer and senior research Fellow at Development Watch Centre.

 

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