May 25 marks Africa Day, a celebration of unity, independence, and shared identity across the African continent and among its global diaspora. In a special interview commemorating this occasion, Ambassador Rahmat Allah Mohamed Osman, the African Union’s Permanent Representative to China, reflected on the significance of the day, the enduring legacy of African liberation, and the growing momentum behind China-Africa cooperation.
A sacred day of unity and liberation
Africa Day traces its roots to May 25, 1963, the founding date of the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union (AU). Ambassador Osman described the day as “almost sacred,” a moment when Africa united to fight colonialism and apartheid. The annual celebration, he explained, is not only about history but about preserving the spirit of freedom and justice for future generations.
This year’s Africa Day theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations”, highlights the global call to address historical injustices and promote fair treatment, especially in light of the enduring legacy of slavery and colonial exploitation.
China’s role in Africa’s liberation and early development
Ambassador Osman emphasized China’s pivotal role in Africa’s decolonization and early development efforts. A landmark example was the construction of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) in the 1970s, a project funded by China when Western financial institutions declined. At a time when China itself was economically struggling, it provided essential support to help southern African nations gain independence and reduce reliance on colonial powers.
“This railway was not only about transportation. It was about freedom, sovereignty, and dignity,” said the ambassador.
The AU’s role in strengthening Africa-China cooperation
As the continent’s leading regional body, the African Union plays a crucial role in coordinating multilateral projects and facilitating interconnectivity among African nations. It was the first regional organization to sign a Belt and Road cooperation agreement with China and joined the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in the early 2010s.
Today, the AU advocates for major cross-border infrastructure and digital connectivity projects, many of which are financed through China-Africa partnerships. Ambassador Osman noted that the AU serves as a unifying voice, helping African nations coordinate strategies, present joint proposals, and ensure Africa-wide benefits from Chinese cooperation.
Observing China firsthand: lessons for Africa’s growth
Since becoming the AU’s first permanent representative to China in 2018, Ambassador Osman has observed China’s development up close, from its successful poverty alleviation campaign to its massive investment in infrastructure and innovation.
He acknowledged that while Africa and China have different socio-political contexts, China’s experience offers valuable insights, especially in adapting policy implementation, digital tools, and economic planning. “We can’t replicate it directly,” he said, “but we can certainly learn from it.”
Aligning Agenda 2063 with the Belt and Road
The AU’s Agenda 2063, dubbed “The Africa We Want,” outlines a long-term blueprint for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Ambassador Osman highlighted the strategic alignment between Agenda 2063 and the BRI, both launched in 2013, emphasizing their shared focus on connectivity, industrialization, and people-centered development.
China has become Africa’s number-one partner in mobilizing resources for continental goals, and the ambassador confirmed that African leaders see China not only as a funder, but as a strategic partner in shaping Africa’s long-term transformation.
Standing together in an uncertain world
In a time marked by unilateralism and protectionism, Ambassador Osman stressed the importance of multilateralism and solidarity among Global South nations. “Climate change, pandemics, economic shocks, no country can face these challenges alone,” he said. “Our strength lies in cooperation.”
As Africa Day 2025 is commemorated across the globe, Ambassador Osman’s reflections serve as a powerful reminder of the past that binds Africa and China and the future they are building together.
