BRI cooperation boosts 'Made in Africa'

NAIROBI -- From Uganda to Egypt, and from Senegal to Nigeria, Chinese-operated industrial parks and zones are thriving across Africa, helping the continent better integrate into the global production chain and promote new African brands.

Driven by the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China's involvement in African industry is also fostering the ecological and sustainable development of local manufacturing, thereby enhancing its competitiveness in the global market. As this fruitful cooperation continues, "Made in Africa" sees promising prospects.

"MADE IN AFRICA" BOOMING

Hellen Mugala, 27, joins hundreds of her colleagues each morning to commute to the Sino-Uganda Mbale Industrial Park in the eastern district of Mbale, Uganda. "This industrial park has helped many local people. I've gained skills and earned a living," she said.

The park, invested in and operated by the private Chinese company Tian Tang Group, has attracted more than 40 companies since its establishment in March 2018, creating over 5,000 local jobs.

One notable company in the park is Pearlight Technology Co., Ltd, which manufactures lighting products, contributing to reducing Uganda's dependence on imported LED lamps by producing them affordably and facilitating repairs.