The Africa-China People-to-People Dialogue officially opened today at the Lusaka International Convention Centre, Ciela Resort, marking a renewed commitment to deepening cooperation between civil society organizations across Africa and China.
Taking place from 8–9 May 2025, this high-level event brings together senior African and Chinese government officials, civil society leaders, business representatives, diplomats, and development experts to celebrate a decade of people-to-people exchange since the 4th China-Africa People’s Forum.
Among the dignitaries leading the Dialogue are Her Excellency W\.K. Mutale Nalumango, Vice President of Zambia; H.E. Selma Haddadi, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission; Mr. Louis Sissoko, Presiding Officer of the African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC); and H.E. Alpheus Matlhaku, Botswana’s High Commissioner to Zambia and Acting Dean of the African Group of Ambassadors (AGOA).
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They are joined by Chinese counterparts including Mr. Li Jun, Vice President of the China NGO Network for International Exchanges (CNIE) and former Vice Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and various leaders from Chinese NGOs and trade associations.
The Dialogue is co-organized by ECOSOCC in partnership with Chinese civil society organizations and aims to review the progress made since the 2015 Declaration on Africa-China cooperation, while outlining a new roadmap for people-to-people engagement. The platform also intends to strengthen cultural, educational, and entrepreneurial ties that support inclusive development.
Dr. Amany Asfour, President of the Africa Business Council, emphasized the importance of Africa-China partnerships that go beyond trade. “We must deepen our cooperation in a way that touches communities, empowers youth and women, and promotes sustainable development. Civil society is the bridge between our peoples,” she said.
Mr. William Carew, Head of Secretariat at ECOSOCC, noted that this year’s gathering was a “testament to the enduring relationship between African and Chinese communities, built on mutual respect and shared aspirations.”
Key objectives of the Dialogue include renewing the commitments made under the 2015 Forum Declaration, launching a joint Steering Committee for future projects, and creating long-term collaboration in areas such as education, cultural exchange, entrepreneurship, and community development.
With the participation of the African diaspora in China and Chinese NGOs that are actively working across Africa, organizers are confident that this year’s event will lead to tangible outcomes. One such expected result is the launch of a permanent platform for continuous engagement between African and Chinese CSOs, governments, and the private sector.
The event also draws a wide range of participants including youth representatives, academics, cultural influencers, members of the diplomatic corps, and business leaders. Organizations such as the China-Africa Business Council, China Charity Alliance, Africa China Centre for Policy and Advisory, and the Global South North Centre are all contributing to discussions and future plans.
The Africa-China People-to-People Dialogue stands as a powerful reminder of the role grassroots partnerships play in global diplomacy and sustainable development.
The Dialogue continues tomorrow, with workshops and panel sessions focused on cross-cultural collaboration, inclusive innovation, and building a shared futur
