From May 7 to 9, 2025, the city of Lusaka, Zambia, played host to a vibrant and impactful event—the Africa-China People-to-People Dialogue (ACP2P2025). Organized by the African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC), this three-day gathering brought together civil society representatives from Africa and China to foster mutual understanding, strengthen partnerships, and chart a shared future focused on sustainable development and cultural exchange. The event, held under the theme of people-to-people connectivity, underscored the power of dialogue, music, and dance in bridging continents and building lasting relationships.
A Platform for Collaboration
The Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) was established in July 2004 as an Advisory Organ composed of different social and professional groups of AU Member States. The mandate of ECOSOCC is to contribute, through advice, to the effective translation of the objectives, principles, and policies of the African Union into concrete programs, as well as the evaluation of these programs.
True to its mission, ECOSOCC facilitated the Africa-China People-to-People Dialogue as a platform for civil society organizations to exchange ideas, establish cooperation mechanisms, and promote people-to-people bonds.
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The event saw participation from high-level figures, including Zambia’s Vice President, Her Excellency W.K. Mutale Nalumango, and ECOSOCC’s Peace & Security Chair, Boniface Cheembe, alongside Chinese delegates like Mr. Li Jun, Vice President of the China International NGO Network for Exchanges (CNIE).
The dialogue provided a space for African and Chinese communities to map out real, actionable projects aimed at improving lives across both continents. From discussions on strengthening civil society partnerships to creating sustainable development initiatives, the event highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges.
As Vice President Nalumango emphasized in her remarks, the Africa-China friendship “transcends mountains and oceans and enjoys a long history.” Her presence was particularly significant, given her role as Zambia’s 14th Vice President and only the second woman to hold this position since her appointment in August 2021. A former educator and the first female Deputy Speaker of Zambia’s National Assembly, Nalumango has long advocated for inclusive policy-making, making her a fitting figure to champion this cross-continental initiative.
Cultural Exchange at the Heart of Connection
One of the standout features of the ACP2P2025 Dialogue was its celebration of cultural diversity through music and dance, which served as universal languages to connect participants. A memorable moment captured during the event was a musical exchange where a Chinese instrumentalist joined Zambian musicians on stage, blending their talents in a performance that needed no interpreter. The Zambian performers, dressed in vibrant green and red traditional attire, played traditional drums, reflecting the country’s rich musical heritage. With 73 ethnic groups and six official language groups—including Bemba, Tonga, and Lozi—Zambian traditional music is a melodic testament to the nation’s cultural diversity, often serving as a cornerstone of community life and identity.
Another heartwarming snapshot showed a Chinese delegate learning traditional Zambian dance steps, moving joyfully alongside local performers on a red carpet under the Lusaka sun.
These interactions were more than just performances—they were symbolic of the deeper connections being forged.
As the African Union ECOSOCC noted in its X post, “friendship can be found in every beat,” a sentiment that resonated throughout the event. These cultural exchanges not only highlighted Zambia’s heritage but also demonstrated how creativity can break down barriers and foster mutual respect.
Building a Shared Future
Beyond the cultural festivities, the dialogue focused on tangible outcomes. Chinese and African civil society representatives sat side by side, discussing projects that would drive sustainable development and improve livelihoods. The event aligned with ECOSOCC’s broader mandate to promote dialogue between all segments of African society and to amplify the voices of the continent’s citizenry in shaping its future. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the ACP2P2025 Dialogue exemplified how grassroots collaboration can complement high-level diplomatic efforts, such as those under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
The event also served as a reminder of the historical ties between Africa and China, which have grown stronger through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and various cultural exchange programs. As Mr. Li Jun of CNIE noted, such dialogues are crucial for mutual learning and cooperation, ensuring that partnerships are not just transactional but rooted in genuine understanding and shared goals.
A Legacy of Connection
The Africa-China
People-to-People Dialogue in Lusaka was a testament to the power of human connection in building a better future. From the conversations between leaders like Vice President Nalumango and Boniface Cheembe to the rhythmic beats of Zambian drums echoing alongside Chinese melodies, every moment underscored the potential for collaboration to transcend borders.
As the African Union ECOSOCC reflected, “when we sit, speak, play, and dance together, we build something lasting.”
As the participants departed Lusaka, they carried with them not just memories of a successful dialogue but also the seeds of new initiatives that will continue to grow, ensuring that the Africa-China friendship remains a vibrant and enduring force for progress.
The inaugural Africa-China People-to-People Dialogue in Zambia will be remembered as a milestone in people-to-people diplomacy, proving that through shared experiences and mutual respect, the world can indeed move closer together—one conversation, one song, and one dance at a time.
