What lessons can South Africa learn from China’s Xinjiang province?

South Africa’s nascent democracy is approaching a juncture where it must forge a new vision for its trajectory in the 21st century. The National Development Plan 2030 serves as a benchmark for assessing progress toward meeting previous objectives. Through its participation in Brics, South Africa gains direct access to a bloc of nations that have tackled challenges similar to those faced by the country south of the Limpopo River, including housing, security, education, and infrastructure.

China, despite being viewed with skepticism by the West, may hold valuable lessons for South Africa in terms of societal efficiency and public administration. A recent conference in Urumqi, Xinjiang province, showcased the region's remarkable progress and the government's role in driving its development. Since 2012, the Chinese government has invested R9.6 trillion in Xinjiang for social and infrastructure development, resulting in the construction of 9,000 kilometers of railways, 230,000 kilometers of highways, and over 600 domestic and international air routes.

The region has also become a leading cotton producer, with 95% of its agricultural processes now automated. While top-down central planning has been the primary driver of development, local small- and medium-sized enterprises have been given a significant role, comprising about 40% of project work. Chinese policies have enabled the nation to lift hundreds of millions out of poverty, a success attributed to long-term planning, policy continuity, and a commitment to investing in people and infrastructure.

Experts from various countries, including the Turkey-China Friendship Foundation, Malaysia-China Friendship Association, and the Southern African Development Community, have highlighted the importance of leadership, education, and a collaborative approach to replicating China's success while adapting it to local contexts.