Gambiaj.com – (Pretoria, South Africa) – The Gambia’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Dr. Fatoumata Jahumpa Ceesay (FJC), has commended the deepening cooperation between China and South Africa in human resource development, describing it as a vital model for broader Africa-China collaboration.
Speaking at the China-South Africa Human Resources Cooperation Fellowship Reception held on Monday in South Africa, Dr. Jahumpa Ceesay joined a distinguished gathering of diplomats, scholars, government officials, and business leaders to celebrate ongoing educational and professional exchange initiatives between the two countries.
In her remarks, the Gambian envoy praised China’s longstanding engagement with Africa, recalling the historic support of African nations that helped secure China’s seat at the United Nations in 1971.
“It was 25 African countries that voted for China to take its rightful place at the UN. Today, China continues to give back to Africa through investments exceeding $1 billion in capacity building, diplomacy, culture, sports, and political development,” she said.
Dr. Jahumpa Ceesay underscored the significance of China’s transformation from poverty to prosperity as an example for African countries seeking sustainable development. “Africa wants to replicate what China has done, lifting millions out of poverty through innovation and investment. The progress we see in China today is a lesson in what determination and strategic planning can achieve,” she added.
She also expressed optimism about South Africa’s growing partnership with China, describing it as mutually beneficial. “South Africa is indeed fortunate to be one of China’s leading trading partners in Africa, and this cooperation continues to open new opportunities for development,” she noted.
Dr. Jahumpa Ceesay extended her congratulations to the fellowship recipients recognized at the event, emphasizing that such initiatives strengthen not only bilateral relations but also Africa’s collective human capital.
She also lauded both China and South Africa for their commitment to education, skills development, and global cooperation, while expressing hope for a successful G20 engagement in the coming weeks.
The reception, linked to broader frameworks such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), featured presentations on fellowship and training programs, recognition of participants’ achievements, and discussions on expanding future collaboration in human resource development.
