Nineteen “small but beautiful” projects highlighting pragmatic cooperation between China and Africa where promoted at the recent China-Africa economic and commercial exhibition.

These initiatives, designed to improve living conditions for local populations, were lauded by political leaders and experts at the event.

One key announcement was the creation of an economic zone in Sikasso, in southeast Mali. This integrated area,planned to cover 300 square kilometers near Côte d’ivoire and Burkina Faso,aims to become a major hub for production,processing,logistics,and trade.

“Mali is an agricultural country. some of our regions have good production and have real potential,” said Brehima said Féfé Koné, chief of staff to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

Mr. Koné emphasized that industrialization is crucial for the country’s economic progress and that the economic zone in Sikasso represents a vital step.

The project aims to transform agricultural resources locally, create jobs for young people, and foster the growth of small commercial enterprises and services.

An initial 80-square-kilometer pilot area will be developed, featuring commercial spaces, industrial units, food processing facilities, and educational, medical, and residential infrastructure.

Sino-African Cooperation Extends Beyond Major Infrastructure

Sino-African cooperation also includes smaller, high-impact projects that directly address the needs of local communities, improving living conditions and supporting local development across the continent.

“Mali is an agricultural country. Some of our regions have good production and have real potential,”

One such project is a solar electrification initiative for households, addressing chronic electricity shortages in many African regions.

The “Initiative for lighting the whole house in Africa” ​​(Whole-House Lighting initiative In Africa) aims to provide African households with complete systems that include solar panels, domestic batteries, and suitable electrical devices.

This initiative seeks to ensure a stable power supply, improve the quality of life for families, extend daily activity hours, and stimulate economic and cultural development. It could also reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower carbon footprints, and help protect the environment.