From Banjul to Beijing: A Gambian reporter's journey of exploring China's poverty alleviation achievements

On the morning of Oct 12, Ms Yadicon Njie Eribo, president of Gambia NGO Federation, and I set out on the journey to China. We were invited by China's embassy in Gambia to participate in the Seminar on Rural Development and Poverty Reduction for Officials from Developing Countries.

During this visit, I was totally impressed by China's accomplishments in rural development and poverty alleviation, and the great force of the people-oriented development concept.

China's experience: Poverty alleviation wisdom

The seminar focused on how to achieve agricultural modernization and sustainable development and to break the chains of poverty holding back all communities, a problem demanding solutions from every developing country.

Through systematic lectures, in-depth discussions and on-site visits, we had a full picture of China's strides from an impoverished country to lifting more than 800 million of the population out of poverty.

It's not a coincidence. The Chinese government designed farsighted policies and arrangements and mobilized Chinese people to participate in a comprehensive way. The unswerving confidence toward development potential and joint efforts from governments and people made this miracle.

From Beijing to Pu'er: Personal experience of poverty reduction

In addition to stay in Beijing, the capital of China, we also went to Pu'er city in Southwest China's Yunnan province, one of the places best testifying to China's poverty reduction.

The trip to Jingmai Mountains in Lancang Lahu autonomous county remained one of my most stunning experiences. The tea industry supported the livelihood of the whole community. Local tea farmers, aside from planting tea, carefully protected and inherited tea culture, and integrated it with innovation and entrepreneurship.

We also visited a local vocational school which provided youth with skill training programs in high compliance with local market demand, such as agricultural technology and hotel service.

Students and their parents told us that education has prevented poverty from being transferred from generation to generation, and enabled young people to become true participants and beneficiaries of changes in their hometown.

New life: Embracing a wonderful life

I was deeply touched by those communities successfully lifted out of poverty. A few years ago, those families lived in shabby houses, rarely enjoying basic public services, but now, they can move to spacious apartments by making small installment payments.

Hearing rural residents' stories about poverty alleviation, I suddenly realized that the meaning of poverty elimination lies not only in the rising economic figures, but also in making everyone gain respect, a sense of security and hope for the future.

Industrial empowerment: Solid foundation for poverty alleviation

China's poverty alleviation was tightly interwoven with industrial development. In Yunnan, we stepped into a medical rubber processing factory, where medical gloves are produced to supply domestic and international markets. The factory is close to villages, so rural residents can take good care of their families while working there.

We also went to a large avocado planting project. The vast fields are more than cropland—they are high-value strategic investment grounds that bear the aspirations of the people's well-being. They create jobs to guarantee villagers' incomes and protect food security, translating the sustainable development concept into agricultural products.

Climbing the Great Wall: Touching ancient Chinese civilization

We also went to China's historical landmarks including the Great Wall. It's a challenge for me to climb it, but I felt the huge strength of Chinese civilization in my every step.

Insights: An enlightenment to Gambia's poverty reduction drive

China is a unique country, and it has never stopped development. China has continued to consolidate development results, from achieving poverty alleviation to advancing rural vitalization, ensuring that no one falls back into poverty and truly living up to the commitment that "no one will be left behind."

It's a clear and profound illumination for Gambia. As long as we have firm political commitment, sound strategic planning and extensive public participation, we will accomplish the goal of poverty alleviation. Development must be inclusive, uphold the dignity of everyone and put people first--this is a valuable lesson we have learned in China.

As we are about to leave China, I want to express my gratitude to China for sharing knowledge without reservation, treating guests with warm hospitality, and giving heartfelt encouragement.

I wish my fellow travelers a smooth and peaceful trip home, and hope that we can serve as messengers of reform, sharing China's achievements and insights with our home countries to illuminate the path ahead.