Botswana Speaker Praises China’s Role in Africa’s Growth

The Speaker of Botswana’s National Assembly, Mr. Dithapelo Keorapetse, has commended China for its sustained support toward Africa’s development, describing the country as a vital partner in the continent’s socio-economic transformation.

Keorapetse made the remarks on Friday at the opening ceremony of the 4th Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations in Dunhuang, China. The event was organised by the Chinese Association for International Understanding and the People’s Government of Gansu Province.

Representing African delegates at the forum, Keorapetse highlighted China’s contributions through infrastructure development, technology transfer, and educational partnerships. He emphasized that these areas of cooperation reflect shared values and mutual progress under the Global Civilisation Initiative.

“From railways to digital innovation, our partnership exemplifies mutual respect and shared progress,” he said.

He also praised Chinese President Xi Jinping’s three major global initiatives – the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative – describing them as key frameworks for empowering the Global South and fostering international cooperation.

Recalling China’s support since Botswana’s independence in 1966, Keorapetse noted:

“When Botswana gained independence, we had fewer than 10 kilometers of tarred roads. China assisted in rehabilitating our railway, modernising 522 kilometers of track through a $99 million interest-free loan.”

He further pointed to the deepening of cultural and academic exchanges between both countries, including the establishment of the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana, in partnership with Shanghai Normal University, to promote Chinese language and intercultural dialogue.

While acknowledging global challenges such as armed conflicts, climate change, health crises, and growing nationalism, Keorapetse called for stronger multilateralism and partnerships across the Global South, with China playing a leading role.

“We look to China to continue partnering with us to address the adverse effects of these global challenges,” he said, reaffirming Botswana’s commitment to ongoing collaboration.