Thandiswa Losi
On March 6, 2025, a pivotal moment unfolded in Beijing, as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivered an impassioned address that rang out far beyond the brick confines of the Great Hall of the People. His remarks heralded a new era for the Global South, especially for Africa, positioning developing nations—long neglected by historical narratives—as central players in shaping the future global landscape.
The clarity and strength of Wang Yi's message were unmistakable: Africa is not merely a beneficiary in the intricate web of global affairs; it stands poised to reclaim its agency as a self-reliant world leader. For those gathered in Beijing and for millions across the continent, his words served as a clarion call to engage in a mutually beneficial partnership with China, forging a counterbalance to what many perceive as an overreaching influence of the United States.
“The dynamism of the changes originates from the South,” Wang declared, underscoring the vulnerabilities of traditional Western dominance in an era where the voices of emerging economies—particularly those from Asia, Africa, and Latin America—are gaining unprecedented prominence.
Wang Yi’s assertions were supported by significant milestones, such as the inclusion of the African Union into the G20, the expansion of BRICS, and the remarkable success of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing. For South Africa, a nation balancing its role as a regional leader and a global player, this newfound emphasis on African agency is not only affirming but also exciting.
At the heart of Wang's speech was an unwavering commitment to Africa's development—a call for nations to “support Africa in exploring a new development path of self-reliance and self-strengthening.” This vision resonates deeply with a continent historically striving for sovereignty and equity on the world stage. China’s dedication is evidenced by the elevated status of its diplomatic relations with all 53 African nations that enjoy ties with Beijing, leading to the formation of what Wang termed an “all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future.”
This partnership has tangible manifestations across the continent, from transformative infrastructure projects like the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway to burgeoning trade corridors fueled by Chinese investment. Wang Yi's focus on enhancing cooperation in green technology, agriculture, and infrastructure presents a lifeline as Africa navigates the challenges of economic advancement.
In what can be interpreted as a sharp critique of American foreign policy under the banner of “America First,” Wang Yi cautioned against a world dominated by aggressive nationalism. He admonished that the prioritisation of national interests at the expense of global equity risks plunging the world back into a “law of the jungle,” a narrative that resonates with the historical injustices Africa has endured.
However, rather than adopting a purely confrontational tone, Wang Yi emphasised the need for “peaceful co-existence,” a vital perspective that highlights China’s mature approach to its global role amid geopolitical rivalries. For South Africa, a nation invested in multilateralism through platforms like BRICS and the African Union, the notion of collaboration superseding confrontation is an encouraging stance.
Moreover, Wang's firm assertion that “China will definitely take countermeasures in response to arbitrary pressure” could be seen as a declaration of sovereignty on behalf of developing nations. In countries like Namibia, Congo, Chad, and Nigeria—recent destinations of Wang's diplomatic travels in early 2025—the consistency of these engagements affirms China's reliability as a partner, especially in times marked by Western reticence.
China’s approach to partnerships stands out for its emphasis on equality, positing principles of “equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal rules” that resonate with South Africa’s post-apartheid ethos. Promised initiatives from the FOCAC 2024, including vocational training and improved market access, are defined by Africa’s unique needs rather than China’s prerogatives, setting the stage for a relationship characterised by mutual respect rather than dependency.
While some critics raise concerns about China's loans or trade surpluses, it is worth noting that every global power maintains its interests. The difference, as Wang Yi highlighted, lies in how those interests are executed. China builds infrastructure that catalyses growth, in stark contrast to the history of extraction associated with Western powers.
In closing, Wang Yi's remarks compel us to reflect on an important question: What future do we envision for Africa? As the fabric of global power continues to shift, the opportunity arises to redefine our role—not tethered to a diminishing U.S.-led order but emerging alongside China's ascent. This is not just about receiving investments; it is about seizing the tools that empower us to chart our own destinies. Together, Africans can embody the ideals of self-reliance and agency, transforming dreams into tangible realities.
Wang Yi's vision is one of collective resilience, where Africa is not merely a passive recipient but an active co-creator on the global stage. The time has come for the Global South to embrace its ascent and capitalise on the opportunity presented. If we dare to take these bold steps, the forecast for our future can indeed be bright, paving the way for an empowered Africa.
Thandiswa Losi is a freelance columnist