BEIJING, Oct. 29, 2025 – From October 20-24, a delegation of 12 African journalists and opinion leaders visited Beijing and Tianjin as part of the 2025 African Media Tour in China, orchestrated by Global Times Online (huanqiu.com). Representatives from 10 nations, including Burundi, the Republic of Congo, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, examined various facets of Chinese modernization, focusing on cultural preservation, rural development, and urban transformation initiatives.
Technology and Urban Renewal: A Pragmatic Solution for High-Quality Growth
In Beijing’s Daji Alley, the delegates observed the skillful incorporation of historical structures into contemporary commercial areas, serving as an exemplary model for urban revitalization. At the Daxing International Aviation Community project, they were particularly impressed by the modular construction techniques, which allow for a wall to be erected in merely 12 minutes. Chadrack from Burundi remarked that these efficient and environmentally friendly building practices could be valuable for addressing housing needs in Africa. The group also visited Tianjin’s Tanggu Bay ‘Smart Micro-City’ to study China’s strategy for integrating industry and urban life, promoting sustainable living, and discovered the advanced capabilities of Chinese-engineered tunnel boring machines at China Railway Engineering Equipment Group.
“I hope we can collaborate on documentaries to showcase China’s strengths in technology and infrastructure,” commented Mavara from Namibia’s Daily News.
Rural Revitalization: Where Tradition Embraces Innovation
At Tangdazhuang Village in Tongzhou District, the delegation discovered how the establishment of Universal Beijing Resort significantly boosted the local homestay sector, leading to an almost 50 percent year-on-year increase in village incomes. Nicola from Zimbabwe commended the local administration’s inventive strategies for maximizing rural potential. During a poverty-alleviation forum at Nankai University, delegates concluded that China’s integrated approach of “infrastructure + internet + market” could offer valuable insights for developmental initiatives across Africa.
Cultural Heritage: A Pathway for Shared Learning
The delegates explored a range of cultural sites, from the Palace Museum to Tianjin’s Wudadao and Ancient Culture Street, where they participated in hawthorn candy making and observed demonstrations of clay figurine creation and Yangliuqing woodblock-printing, thereby gaining direct experience with China’s intangible cultural heritage. Furthermore, they applauded the interactive displays at the China National Geographic Exploration Center, highlighting how technology can render traditional wisdom more approachable and captivating.
Over the span of five days, the delegation traversed urban centers and rural communities, witnessing both groundbreaking innovation and enduring traditions, which provided them with a clear and practical understanding of modern China. “I intend to share these narratives and insights back in Africa, enabling more individuals to learn from my observations,” stated Somali journalist Mohamedkafi.
Company: huanqiu.com
Contact Person: Weile Ji
Email: jiweile@huanqiu.com
Website: https://www.huanqiu.com/
Telephone: +86 10-65361998
City: Beijing
Photos are available at:
