China’s agricultural development strategy, which began with a focus on food security and evolved into a commercially viable agricultural sector, serves as a valuable model for Africa, Kafui Tsekpo, deputy chairperson of the Association of China-Africa Smallholder Agriculture in Ghana, said, underscoring the necessity of learning from China’s agricultural advancements.  

By combining lessons from China’s agricultural successes and local knowledge, Africa can unlock its agricultural potential, improve food security, and create a more equitable economic future for its people, Tsekpo said. 

In an interview with ChinAfrica on the sidelines of the 2025 International Forum on Poverty Governance and Global Development, held in Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China’s Yunnan Province, on 29 March, Tsekpo discussed the critical role of agricultural cooperation between China and Africa in addressing poverty and fostering sustainable development, highlighting the importance of technical cooperation, particularly in the transfer of both simple and complex agricultural technologies that can enhance productivity and sustainability for African farmers. 

China and Africa share historical and socio-economic similarities, having faced similar developmental challenges over the past six decades. However, China has successfully lifted itself out of poverty while Africa continues to grapple with significant challenges, he said. 

Tsekpo elaborated on the critical role of agriculture, particularly in the context of poverty alleviation in regions like Yunnan’s Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, which itself is a shining example of China's success in eradicating poverty. 

“Agriculture is not merely a sector but a cornerstone of economic development and rural revitalisation in Africa,” he said, pointing out that agriculture has historically been the bedrock of industrialised nations and remains vital for food security, economic growth, and poverty alleviation. He highlighted Africa’s immense agricultural potential, with a diverse range of crops and resources that can significantly contribute to food security and economic development. He said African governments must prioritise agricultural investment and create policies that recognise the unique needs of different regions and communities. 

Tsekpo said smallholder farmers in Africa are the backbone of the continent’s agricultural sector but face a myriad of challenges, including limited access to technology, markets, and resources. He called for deliberate policy interventions to create an enabling environment for farmers, ensuring they have access to the necessary tools and resources to thrive. Smallholder farmers possess invaluable knowledge and experience that should be leveraged. He advocated for a focus on enhancing this knowledge through technology transfer and research, ensuring that African farmers are at the centre of agricultural innovation. 

Tsekpo also stressed the need for Africa to leverage its unique cultural values and agricultural practices. He pointed out that Africa’s diverse ethnic groups possess rich agricultural knowledge and practices that can be harnessed to improve agricultural outcomes. By integrating local knowledge with appropriate technology, African farmers can enhance their productivity and resilience. 

When talking about the importance of creating synergies within agricultural systems, Tsekpo illustrated how interconnected agricultural practices can lead to more sustainable and efficient food production systems. For example, byproducts from one agricultural process can serve as inputs for another, thereby creating a circular economy that benefits local communities. This approach not only enhances productivity but also fosters economic resilience and sustainability, he noted. 

Co-hosted by the Yunnan provincial government, the China Public Relations Association, and China International Communications Group, the forum gathered some 300 diplomats, policymakers, and development experts from 34 countries and international organisations to discuss topics surrounding the theme "Together Promote Rural Revitalisation and Common Development."