Joint innovation promoted at China-Africa Agricultural Cooperation Dialogue

Zhai Yanning, deputy director of the Institute of Vegetables and Flowers at CAAS, introduces the institute’s key research areas and achievements.

The China-Africa Agricultural Cooperation Dialogue was held at the Institute of Vegetable and Flowers of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) in Beijing on April 29. Approximately 30 participants, including delegates from the seminar for renowned journalists from English-speaking African countries and international students based in Beijing, participated in the dialogue. The initiative was aimed to showcase China’s achievements in peony breeding, facility agriculture and green cultivation, exploring promising opportunities for joint agricultural innovation and youth engagement in the farming sector.

Zhang Xiuxin, scientist in Chinese medicine industry technology system and researcher at CAAS, interacts with participants.

Li Zhong, project manager at the Overseas Agriculture Research Center of CAAS and representative of the World Food Forum China, hosts the interactive exchange session.

Li Zhong, project manager at the Overseas Agriculture Research Center of CAAS and representative of the World Food Forum China, introduced the cooperation between CAAS and African countries in agricultural science and technology, platform building and talent training. He also shared the development plan of the World Food Forum China project team with the participants.

Ayman Mohamed Ahmed Abduallah, a PhD student focusing on peony research at CAAS, gives an introduction of a plant to the delegation.

Young representatives from Africa also engaged in an in-depth discussion on the current situation and challenges of youth participation in agriculture, sharing their experiences and hurdles they face, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.

“The visit to the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences was both insightful and thought-provoking. It showcased how deeply China values research and development in agriculture.” Emeldah Libanga, managing editor from Zambia Daily Mail said. She noted that despite Africa’s abundant natural resources, the continent's limited research capabilities have left many indigenous plants largely unexplored and underutilized. In her view, this presents a golden opportunity for China-Africa collaboration in agricultural and botanical research. “By combining China's expertise with Africa’s rich resources, we can develop solutions that will not only benefit our local communities but also contribute to global sustainability and public health,” she emphasized.

Susan Kimachia, head of electronic news from Radio Africa Group, noted that research conducted at the institute will help the world make great leaps in ensuring that global citizens can enjoy balanced meals, even in the face of limited resources and space constraints. “The full utilization of every part of a plant and the value addition witnessed are key components that we can take away and encourage back home; especially now when youth are participating in agriculture.”

A delegation member visits the horticultural science base at the institute.

This visit served as a crucial platform for dialogue and cooperation among young people in the agricultural sector from China and Africa. It furthered the mutual understanding and ties between agricultural science institutions and laid a solid foundation for promoting practical cooperation and achieving joint development in the future.

A group photo of participants at the China-Africa Agricultural Cooperation Dialogue.