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The catastrophe began when a fire started while a person was cooking on board the vessel, said Compétent Loyoko, the river commissioner. Several passengers, including women and children, died after jumping into the water without being able to swim.

Dozens were saved but many of the survivors were left badly burnt. The search for the missing included rescue teams supported by the Red Cross and provincial authorities.

The motorised wooden boat caught fire near the town of Mbandaka, Loyoko said. The boat, HB Kongolo, had left the port of Matankumu for the Bolomba territory.

'The death toll among the 500 passengers on board was extremely high,' said senator Jean-Paul Boketsu Bofili on Friday. 'As we speak, more than 150 survivors suffering from third-degree burns are without humanitarian assistance.'

Deadly boat accidents are common in the central African country, where late-night travels and overcrowded vessels are often blamed. Authorities have struggled to enforce maritime regulations.

Congo’s rivers are a main means of transport for its more than 100 million people, especially in remote areas with little infrastructure. Hundreds have been killed in boat accidents in recent years as more people abandon the few available roads for wooden vessels packed with passengers and their goods.

'Our magnificent Congo River and the lakes our country abounds in have become huge cemeteries for the Congolese people. This is unacceptable,' said Bofili.

Dozens were saved but many of the survivors were left badly burnt. The search for the missing included rescue teams supported by the Red Cross and provincial authorities.

Rescue efforts continue after the fire and sinking of a boat on the Congo River.

IGIHE

The president carried a wooden cross during the procession, accompanied by his family, in an attempt to practice the symbolic gesture involving retracing Jesus’ final steps before his crucifixion and praying or meditating at each of the 14 designated stations.

The Burundian presidency later stated that Ndayishimiye participated in the 'stations of the cross,' joining in the suffering of Jesus. His public involvement in the religious ceremony was seen by some as a sign of humility and solidarity with the nation’s Christian community.

However, the gesture also sparked mixed online reactions. While some praised the president’s devotion, others criticized the move as tone-deaf in the face of ongoing national challenges.

'He should be solving the problems Burundians are facing, at the very least helping secure fuel, but here he is lifting wooden crosses made from Grevillea trees,' read one of comments by a social media user.

The event, which was part of global Good Friday observances, has since fueled a broader conversation in Burundi about leadership, faith, and national priorities.

President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi participated in the 'stations of the cross' a Christian tradition reflecting on the suffering of Jesus Christ.

President Évariste Ndayishimiye was in the company of his family.

IGIHE

Reports indicate that Kabila, who had been residing in South Africa, arrived in Goma on Friday afternoon. According to members of the AFC/M23, he entered the country via Rwanda.

Since leaving office, Kabila has spent most of his time in South Africa, though he has also lived in Zimbabwe.

Reports of Kabila’s return to the DRC began circulating earlier this month, with sources revealing that preparations to welcome him had been underway for several days.

He had pledged to return soon, citing the country’s serious security issues and challenges in all other sectors of national life, stating that he wanted to help find solutions.

The country has been facing a crisis due to the ongoing conflict between the government and the AFC/M23 rebels, who have recently taken control of large swathes of eastern DRC. The rebels accuse President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration of poor governance and the targeted persecution of minority groups, particularly Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese.

Kabila remains a powerful figure in Congolese politics and retains a strong base of supporters.

Olivier Kamitatu, a former minister and current spokesperson for Congolese businessman and politician Moïse Katumbi, recently posted on X, saying, 'Joseph Kabila’s decision to go to the East, a region controlled by rebels, is not just symbolic: it’s a reminder of our shared future.'

Joseph Kabila remains a powerful figure in Congolese politics and retains a strong base of supporters.

IGIHE

The new system reflects a broader effort to modernise traffic regulations and improve accountability on the roads. At its core is a merit/demerit point system, which assigns drivers a set number of points annually. Safe drivers will maintain or even earn points, while those who violate traffic rules will see points deducted.

If a driver accumulates too many violations, their license could ultimately be suspended or revoked, adding real consequences to repeat offences. Officials hope this will encourage more responsible behaviour behind the wheel and reduce the rate of road accidents.

The draft law also introduces other reforms, such as updated driving school standards and provisions to leverage new technology for better enforcement. The changes are intended to enhance transparency in the transport sector and strengthen public trust in traffic management systems.

Specific details, including the categories of infractions, the number of points deducted per offence, and associated fines, will be outlined in a Ministerial Order currently under review.

As Rwanda continues prioritising safety and efficiency in its transport sector, the point-based system is being viewed as a practical tool to promote a culture of careful and responsible driving.

In addition to the upcoming point-based system, Rwanda has implemented several other measures over the years to promote road safety. These include the enforcement of strict speed limits—typically 40 km/h in urban areas and 60—80 km/h on highways—monitored by speed cameras installed across various locations.

Seat belt use is mandatory for all vehicle occupants, and failure to comply results in fines. Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless a hands-free device is used. The country also upholds a firm stance against drunk driving, with a legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08%.

To further ensure order on the roads, adherence to traffic signals and signs is strictly enforced, and helmet use is compulsory for both drivers and passengers on motorcycles (motos).

Rwanda has implemented several other measures over the years to promote road safety. These include the enforcement of strict speed limits—typically 40 km/h in urban areas and 60—80 km/h on highways—monitored by speed cameras installed across various locations.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Designed to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, the program not only offers full scholarships to international universities but also equips students with practical skills that prepare them for academic and professional success.

The ALX Pathway is open to high-performing secondary school graduates, offering them access to some of the world’s top universities across North America, Europe, and Africa.

But beyond the funding, what sets the program apart is its intentional focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving. According to Yvan Cedric Mukunzi, the ALX Pathway Lead in Rwanda, the greatest value of the program is not just the scholarship itself.

'When most people hear about the ALX Pathway Program, they immediately think of the incredible opportunity to secure a fully funded scholarship to a world-class university. And yes, that alone is a life-changing benefit. However, the true value of the Pathway program goes far beyond financial support,' Mukunzi said.

He explained that for learners making the leap straight from high school to university, ALX Pathway offers something far more powerful, a head start, a carefully designed foundation for academic, professional, and personal success.

This head start begins with an eight-month curriculum designed to build essential skills that traditional secondary education often overlooks.

Students learn the basics of entrepreneurship, communication, business mathematics, statistics, and even introductory software engineering. These courses are intentionally designed to help learners connect their academic knowledge with real-world application.

But beyond the funding, what sets the program apart is its intentional focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving.

Clovis Cyubahiro, a recent graduate from Ecole des Sciences Byimana, initially joined the program for the scholarship. But he says the program has already reshaped his perspective. 'I joined for the free university education, but what I’m gaining before I even set foot on campus is changing how I see my future in my community,' he explained.

A large part of this transformation stems from the entrepreneurship course (ENT 100), where students are encouraged to identify challenges in their own neighborhoods and develop potential solutions. Whether it’s addressing erratic electricity in rural districts or improving access to clean water, the emphasis is on turning local issues into opportunities.

'In our secondary schools, we learn theory very well. What we often miss is the connection between classroom knowledge and solving real problems in our communities,' said Pacifique Tumusifu, who is set to study International Business in Mauritius through ALX Pathway.

This practical orientation is no coincidence. As Mukunzi explained, the goal is to build a mindset of innovation.
'Rwanda and the region need job creators, not just job seekers. When young people start seeing challenges as opportunities, that mindset shift becomes as valuable as any university degree,' he noted.

The curriculum continues into a second term that focuses on deepening these foundational skills. Students learn how to apply statistical thinking, manage business finances, and use technology as a tool for entrepreneurship.

These are skills increasingly valued by universities and employers, especially in regions where economic development is linked closely with innovation and technological advancement.

One particularly transformative experience for many students is the quantitative reasoning course (QNT 101), which challenges the traditional fear of mathematics.

For many Rwandan students, the journey through ALX Pathway is redefining what it means to pursue higher education.

Students also engage in team-based projects where collaboration and communication are essential, giving them early exposure to the dynamics of professional work environments. These soft skills, often overlooked in purely academic settings, are proving to be just as critical as technical knowledge.

The program’s outcomes are beginning to take shape as the first cohort secures placements at leading universities.

Institutions such as African Leadership College in Mauritius, the University of California Berkeley, Macalester College in Minnesota, Code University in Berlin, and Morehouse College in Atlanta are among the diverse destinations that ALX Pathway students are heading to.

Each offers a distinct experience, from Silicon Valley’s tech hubs to the leadership-driven model of ALU Rwanda, giving students exposure to a range of academic and cultural environments.

Bigirimana Olivier, who will soon begin his studies at ALCHE in Mauritius, says the greatest benefit he’s received so far isn’t on paper.

'I’ll bring back knowledge, connections, and experience. But I already have something valuable, the ability to see opportunities where others see problems. That’s how we’ll build our community’s future,' he said.

For many Rwandan students, the journey through ALX Pathway is redefining what it means to pursue higher education. It is not just about gaining degrees abroad, but about returning equipped to contribute meaningfully at home.

The second cohort of ALX Pathway begins in May, with the application deadline set for April 21. Interested applicants can text the word “pathway” to 0796 163 394 or visit alxafrica.com/join-pathway to apply.

These are skills increasingly valued by universities and employers, especially in regions where economic development is linked closely with innovation and technological advancement.

IGIHE

Whether you’re dodging moto taxis in Kimironko or running your beauty salon in Remera, money has this sneaky habit of disappearing faster than airtime during a gossip call. One minute it’s there, the next—puff—gone. But why?

Let’s rewind to January—you know, back when we were still full of hope, life plans, and printed vision boards from Instagram templates.

'This is my year to save, invest, and level up!' we said.

Well… Q2 just tapped us on the shoulder like, 'Yoh, how’s that going?'

For me, it all started with an episode of The Boss Lady Africa. Just Ivy Africa was talking about self-sabotaging money habits. I had my earbuds in, minding my own business, until she said something that hit me harder than a 'you up?' text from your broke ex.

That’s when it clicked: if any of my Pinterest-inspired financial goals were going to happen, I needed to do the real work and get honest about my money habits. So I did what any curious person would do—I started asking my friends awkward questions about their finances. And oh, did things get juicy!

One friend didn’t miss a beat:
'I don’t get paid enough to manage my money well.'
Ma’am. Sir. Beloved. The paycheck might be small, but the damage is mighty.

Another friend, a champion of budget-dodging, pivoted faster than a motard at a roadblock:
'Budget? Hmm… have you considered starting another side hustle?'
Nice deflection, Delphine.

But then came the brave one. The one who staged what I now call 'The Budget Intervention' in a café:

'Let’s go through your budget,' they said.
I nearly dropped my phone.
Attacked? Yes.
Exposed? 100%.
Relieved? Weirdly, also yes.

For the first time, I wasn’t just hoping money would magically behave—I had a plan.
Did I follow it? Of course not. I’m a proud, card-carrying member of the 'avoid it and it will go away' club.

But hey, awareness is the first step, right?

From village mindset to victory mindset

Here’s a spicy truth: Everyone wants to be in a village, but no one wants to be a villager.

We want support systems, accountability partners, and community—but are we showing up for that same community? Are we building what we’re desperate to belong to?

Same applies to money. Everyone wants to be 'financially free,' but few of us are willing to do the slow, unsexy work of financial literacy. We dream of glow-ups without the grind. Of 'rich auntie energy' without reading a single article about savings accounts.

Well, buckle up. Let’s diagnose your money personality, Rwandan-style.

The money personality quiz you didn’t know you needed

Impulse spender

Your brain: 'This bag is so cute.'
Your wallet: 'Ha! We have rent.'
That coffee from Rubia every morning? Those 'just a small treat' days? They add up. Suddenly, you’re wondering why you’re skipping your cousin’s dowry ceremony—it’s because you spent that cash on a scented candle.

Bougie on a budget

You’re living champagne dreams on an Amstel budget. IG makes you think you deserve the lifestyle—fine dining, imported skincare, luxury loungewear—yet your account is screaming, 'Mwafashije koko!'

Budget avoider

Budget? That thing you say you’ll start every Sunday but instead binge The Residence? Yeah. You’ve ghosted your budget harder than your sneaky ex.

Financially illiterate (But cute)

You think investing is for men in suits or people who earn more than 1M a month. Wrong.
If you’ve ever handled a household, run a small biz, or simply tried to make RWF 10,000 stretch for two weeks—you are already doing finance. Now imagine doing it smarter.

So now that we’ve dragged ourselves, let’s get to the fun part: the glow-up.

Make a budget

Think of budgeting as writing a love letter to your future self.

'Dear Me in December, I wanted you to have money for the holiday trip. So I skipped the 3-drink outing with friends this week.'

Start tracking everything. That airtime top-up? The RWF 1,000 you sent for a WhatsApp group contribution?

Write. It. Down.

Here’s a simple starter formula:

50% for needs

30% for wants

20% for savings or paying off debts

Can’t make it work? That’s your cue to earn more—or spend less. Probably both.

Set goals that don’t scare you

Start small. Save 100K and open that BK Capital Aguka Fund. Build a 50K emergency stash.
Baby steps are still steps—and they’re way better than standing still.

Invest in yourself

Not with more clothes. I mean learning.Take a free budgeting class. Listen to podcasts like Africa’s Pocket or Money Movers Society. Ask questions. ChatGPT things. Your dream lifestyle starts with your current habits.

Own your money

Money is a tool. Don’t let it use you. If you want financial freedom, you need to make money your employee—not your master. And no, the salary fairy isn’t coming unless you invite her by showing up, asking for more, learning more, and choosing better.

It won’t always be pretty. Some days you’ll feel like the next Dangote. Other days, you’ll be in your kitchen, eating rice and beans and wondering why you spent all your food money at a brunch in Kiyovu.

It’s okay.

Growth isn’t linear. It’s messy. It’s personal. Sometimes it involves saying no to night-outs and yes to financial peace. Sometimes it means talking to friends about money—even when it’s awkward.

But every single time you choose clarity over confusion, discipline over delay, and ownership over avoidance, you’re rewriting your money story.

So, what habit are you breaking this month?

Whether you’re dodging moto taxis in Kimironko or running your beauty salon in Remera, money has this sneaky habit of disappearing faster than airtime during a gossip call. One minute it’s there, the next—puff—gone. But why?

The writer is a senior copywriter based in Kigali.

Josepha Mafubo

Many Wazalendo fighters and Burundian soldiers fled to Uvira territory after being pushed out of areas in South Kivu Province, including Bukavu city, by the AFC/M23.

The government-backed fighters had previously clashed with the Congolese army, accusing it of cowardice for avoiding combat and attempting to retreat to places like Kalemie in Tanganyika Province.

Wazalendo forces have recently been trying to launch offensives in areas controlled by AFC/M23, particularly in South Kivu, aiming to recapture lost territory. However, most of the attacks have failed, with Wazalendo being repelled almost immediately.

After a period of cooperation between Wazalendo and Burundian forces, a visit by Defence Minister Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita to Uvira on April 7, 2025, revealed the deteriorating relationship.

A Wazalendo leader told Minister Muadiamvita that whenever their fighters attempted to attack AFC/M23, the Burundian troops stopped them, even when the fighters believed they had a chance to win.

'We Wazalendo face many challenges on the battlefield. You are here with our leader and the regional commander, so tell us what the mission and purpose of the Burundian army in our country is. Every time we’re close to defeating the enemy in Kamanyola, the Burundians always tell us, 'No, you’re not allowed to attack the enemy here,’” he said.

Minister Muadiamvita attempted to ease the tension, explaining that Burundi is an ally of the DRC. He said Burundian troops only prevent attacks on AFC/M23 because they have their own strategy and plans for combat, whether during the day or at night.

Wazalendo forces say they are the ones defending Uvira, warning that if they leave their positions, AFC/M23 would immediately seize the territory. This reflects a loss of faith in both Burundian and Congolese armies.

The coalition also highlighted challenges such as lack of adequate weapons, ammunition, and food, noting that 'it’s hard to feed over 6,000 fighters.' They appealed to President Félix Tshisekedi to heed their pleas.

The revelations about Wazalendo’s dire conditions came after the group’s leader, Lt Gen. Padiri Bulenda David, was summoned to Kinshasa for undisclosed reasons.

Minister Muadiamvita attempted to ease the tension, explaining that Burundi is an ally of the DRC. He said Burundian troops only prevent attacks on AFC/M23 because they have their own strategy and plans for combat, whether during the day or at night.

The leader of Wazalendo, Padiri Bulenda David, was recently summoned to Kinshasa.

IGIHE

Mengniu, one of China’s leading dairy producers, has built this factory to depend more on machines and digital systems than on human labor. This is part of a bigger shift in how the company processes, tracks, and delivers its products, with a heavy focus on smart technology.

Each day, the Beijing facility handles 1.2 million liters of milk. But very few human hands are involved. Robots move between stations, and machines operate with little noise or delay. Most of the work is automated, controlled by software and guided by real-time data.

The factory is equipped with sensors that monitor everything, from the temperature of storage tanks to the amount of bacteria in the milk. These Internet of Things (IoT) sensors feed information into a central system that helps technicians manage the process from a glass-walled control room.

There, a 3D digital copy of the entire factory, known as a 'digital twin,’ allows engineers see what is happening in real time and fix problems before they get worse.

Artificial intelligence (AI) also plays a big role. It is used to predict when machines might break down, so repairs can be done before any damage occurs. AI helps with planning production, reducing errors by nearly 40%, and even cutting energy waste by adjusting power use based on the factory’s needs.

Robotic arms and conveyor systems working in harmony to process 1.2 million liters of milk each day at Mengniu’s facility.

Every package of milk or yogurt from the factory comes with a QR code. By scanning it, customers can trace the product’s entire journey, from the cow in Inner Mongolia, to the transport truck, to the final processing in Beijing.

This system is powered by block chain technology, which keeps the data secure and helps build consumer trust. The factory also takes sustainability seriously. About 30% of its energy comes from solar panels and biogas.

AI systems manage energy use minute by minute to avoid waste. Even wastewater is tracked digitally and treated with advanced sensors. Around 95% of that water is reused, mainly for irrigation in green spaces.

In product development, Mengniu’s Beijing team created an AI-based 'nutritionist' tool called Mengmeng. It offers customized dairy diet plans for over 10 million users.

The company also works with Alibaba to study market trends. When a new flavor, like bubble tea yogurt, becomes popular, the factory can quickly adjust production within 72 hours.

The use of advanced technology at the Beijing plant reflects a bigger shift in China’s manufacturing sector. It’s not just about making products faster, but about making them smarter and more efficient.

Mengniu started in 1999 as a small milk collection station in Inner Mongolia. But in Beijing, it now operates one of the most advanced dairy factories in the country. Technology is no longer a support tool—it’s now at the heart of everything the company does.

Technicians monitor operations from a high-tech control room, with robots quietly handling logistics on the factory floor.

Mengniu sees ‘lots of opportunities’ in Africa

As of now, Mengniu Dairy does not export its products directly to Africa. However, the company has expressed strong interest in expanding into the African market, recognizing the continent’s growing demand for dairy products.

However, it has previously engaged in initiatives like the 'Dairy Nourishes Africa’ project in Tanzania, aiming to support local dairy industries through technical assistance and training.

During my visit, Mengniu’s Vice President, Wei Wei, highlighted Africa as a significant opportunity for the company’s future growth.

'We see Africa as a very important market right now. For now, we don’t have a very specific timeline, but we really value this market…we see a lot of opportunities there and we will develop more business there in the future.' Wei Wei said.

Rwanda, with its robust dairy sector producing over one million tonnes of milk annually, stands to gain insightful lessons by adopting advanced technologies in dairy processing and management.

By embracing innovations such as automated milking systems, digital monitoring tools, and efficient supply chain management, the country can enhance productivity, ensure product quality, and reduce post-harvest losses.

Such technological integration not only supports Rwanda’s goal of increasing milk production but also positions the nation to meet growing domestic and regional demand for dairy products.

Collaborations with technologically advanced dairy industries can facilitate knowledge transfer, enabling Rwanda to modernize its dairy infrastructure and practices, ultimately benefiting farmers and consumers alike.

Beijing’s smart factory is part of a wider national shift in China—toward data-driven and automated manufacturing.

Engineers using a 'digital twin’—a 3D replica of the factory—to visualize workflows and troubleshoot issues in real time.

The R&D lab where innovations like 'Mengmeng'—the AI nutritionist—were developed by in-house data scientists.

A glimpse inside the smart factory where machines, not humans, dominate operations.

Milk packages rolling off the line, each tagged with a QR code enabling customers to trace its journey via blockchain.

Mengniu’s growth from a small milk station in Inner Mongolia to a cutting-edge factory in Beijing underscores China’s industrial evolution.

Machines move with precision and speed as one of the few workers oversees operations from a distance.

IoT sensors installed across the plant collect and transmit real-time data on milk quality, storage conditions, and hygiene.

Inside Mengniu’s dedicated R&D room, researchers work on new dairy formulas and smart tech applications.

In a factory that processes 1.2 million liters of milk daily, only a handful of human workers are seen on-site.

Exterior view of Mengniu’s smart dairy factory in Beijing.

Christian Mugisha

He shared this message during a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where officials from the Sudanese Embassy and Sudanese nationals residing in Rwanda were taken through Rwanda’s history, from the colonial era to the execution of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Musa stated that they wanted to learn from the resilience of the Rwandan people, who managed to stop the genocide, rebuild their nation, and move forward without forgetting their past.

“What I would say to Rwandans is that they must continue to remain united and stay the course of nation-building. They must preserve the unity they have today, and strive for lasting peace, development, security, and stability in their country,” he said.

The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, involves fighting between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and government forces. It has already claimed over 24,000 lives and displaced more than 13 million people. Civilian property and infrastructure have also been devastated.

In his message to the people of Sudan, Ambassador Musa described Rwanda as a clear example of how a nation can recover and thrive after going through extreme turmoil.

H.E. Khalid Musa Dafalla laying a wrath at the memorial center in remembrance of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

“It is a country that rose from difficult times, during the genocide, and achieved progress through unity, strong leadership, and firm principles. We in Sudan can also achieve this,” he emphasized.

A Sudanese national, Rwan Eljack, shared her impressions from the memorial visit, saying she was deeply moved by what she saw and learned, especially in contrast to Rwanda’s current state of peace and progress.

“What I saw was truly heartbreaking, but I believe everyone who visits this place leaves with a lesson. As Sudanese youth, we’ve learned that even after a dark chapter, there is hope for rebuilding. We believe that even our two-year-long war will one day end,” she said.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial, located in Gisozi, is the final resting place of over 250,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, who were killed in Kigali and surrounding areas.

Officials from the Sudanese embassy and Sudanese nationals residing in Rwanda were taken through Rwanda’s history, from the colonial era to the execution of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

The Sudanese Ambassador to Rwanda, Khalid Musa Dafalla, paid tribute to victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

The Sudanese Ambassador to Rwanda, Khalid Musa Dafalla, signs the condolence book at the memorial center.

IGIHE

This bilingual thematic report is the first of its kind jointly developed by an academic think tank and a media think tank, integrating the latest insights from both academia and industry on China’s green and low-carbon development.

The report was officially released at the Seminar on China’s Green and Low-Carbon Development: Vision and Action, which was jointly hosted by Tsinghua ICCSD and Global Times Online.

More than 30 representatives from international organizations, such as the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the International Labour Organization (ILO), the European Commission, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), and Harvard University, attended the event.

They witnessed the release of the report and engaged in in-depth discussions on China’s green and low-carbon practices, opportunities for international cooperation, and global climate governance.

The photo shows a research report titled “China’s Green and Low-Carbon Development: Vision and Action”, which was jointly released by the Institute of Climate Change and Sustainable Development of Tsinghua University (Tsinghua ICCSD) and Global Times Online (Huanqiu.com).

The report not only summarizes the logic and achievements of China’s green transition but also systematically reviews the country’s policy framework, domestic actions, and international cooperation under the dual carbon goals.

Furthermore, through case studies and strategic recommendations, the report provides replicable practices for developing countries and contributes Chinese insights to global climate governance.

The report features five exemplary case studies, illustrating China’s multifaceted pathways to green and low-carbon development.

One case is China-Africa agricultural cooperation. The report highlights efforts such as those made by the team led by globally renowned Chinese agronomist Yuan Longping to promote hybrid rice in Madagascar. In recognition of China’s efforts to help Africa enhance food security and climate resilience, the achievements of the team’s hybrid rice demonstration project were even featured on the local currency.

Another case focuses on the transformation of the power sector. China is developing a new energy-dominated power system, guiding the transition of coal-fired power plants towards flexible peak-load regulation through policy support and technological innovation.

Green finance innovation is also a key area highlighted in the report. Huzhou, a city in east China’s Zhejiang Province and one of the country’s first green finance pilot zones, has established a digital platform and standardized system to support sustainable finance.

In ecological governance, China’s project to stabilize the edge of the Taklamakan Desert has built a 3,000-kilometer green shelterbelt over 40 years, pioneering a “who invests, who benefits” model for desertification control, while driving the growth of local industries.

Lastly, the report introduces state-owned enterprise transformation. China Energy Investment Corporation (China Energy) has facilitated the transition of high-carbon assets into low-carbon benchmarks through coal-fired power modernization, renewable energy expansion, and innovative technology applications.

The report presents four key conclusions and universally shared international concepts: China’s green transition experience is open to the world; the cooperation in building a green Belt and Road aims for shared prosperity; new energy capacity serves as “advanced capacity” to address global supply shortages; and Chinese innovations reduce the global costs of low-carbon transition, promoting inclusive development.

The research report aims to highlight China’s practical achievements in harmonizing green growth with economic development, stressing the country’s commitment to deepening international cooperation in an open and inclusive manner and providing guidance for stakeholders concerned with green and low-carbon transition and global climate governance.

At the seminar, experts from both China and abroad discussed the progress of global climate governance and China’s growing role in driving green transitions.

They emphasized China’s dual-track approach to international cooperation—North-South and South-South—, which contributes China’s solutions to building a fair and equitable global climate governance framework.

Representatives from various industries also shared practical experiences. A delegation from Wuxi city in east China’s Jiangsu Province introduced the city’s Eight Major Action Measures for Taihu Lake Governance, which ensure regional drinking water safety and prevent lake eutrophication.

A representative from CRCC Development Group Corporation Limited, a subsidiary of China Railway Construction Corporation Limited, shared desertification control efforts in Hetian, Xinjiang, demonstrating how developing the sand industry can support both ecological restoration and economic growth.

It’s widely believed that the successful seminar and the release of the report have provided a valuable platform for international exchange among experts and scholars and offered insights and solutions for advancing green and low-carbon development.

Participants in the Seminar on China’s Green and Low-Carbon Development: Vision and Action, which was jointly hosted by Tsinghua ICCSD and Global Times Online, pose for a group photo outside the venue for the event.

IGIHE