People-centred modernisation, green development: What African countries can learn from China’s governance approach

Development debates today are increasingly shaped by two pressing questions: how to sustain economic growth while improving people's wellbeing, and how to modernise without deepening environmental strain. These issues are particularly important for developing countries seeking long-term stability in an era defined by demographic change, climate concerns, and rising public expectations. ALSO READ: Inside China's unique model of governance In this context, the fifth volume of President Xi Jinping's The Governance of China, a multi-volume collection of speeches, writings, instructions, interviews, and policy explanations, offers insights into how China increasingly frames modernisation not only as an economic project, but also as a social and ecological one. ALSO READ: China and global governance Among the sections that stood out to me in this series intended to explain China's governance philosophy, policy priorities, and development strategy under Xi's leadership are the chapters on People-Centred Development and The Beautiful China Initiative. Together, they present a governance philosophy that links economic transformation with social welfare, employment, public services, and environmental sustainability. China's political and historical context is undoubtedly unique. Nevertheless, several of the ideas outlined in these chapters resonate strongly with the development priorities of many African countries, including my own country, Rwanda. A recurring theme throughout the text is that modernisation should ultimately be measured by improvements in people's daily lives. Employment, healthcare, and environmental quality are presented not as secondary concerns, but as central indicators of national progress. This reflects an important shift away from viewing development purely through the lens of GDP growth or industrial expansion. The emphasis on common prosperity is particularly striking. In the text, poverty reduction is framed not only as a political responsibility but also as a long-term development strategy. China's elimination of extreme poverty is portrayed not simply as a welfare achievement, but as the outcome of coordinated planning, rural revitalisation, infrastructure investment, and targeted policy implementation. The repeated focus on practical governance rather than rhetorical ambition gives the discussion a distinctly administrative character centred on delivery and results. Employment is described as fundamental to social stability and individual dignity, particularly during periods of economic transition. The text recognises that technological change, demographic shifts, and industrial restructuring create both opportunities and pressures for labour markets. Rather than addressing unemployment solely through short-term measures, it emphasises vocational training, entrepreneurship, labour protections, and aligning education systems with economic transformation. This focus is particularly relevant for African economies with young populations and rapidly evolving labour markets. Rwanda, for example, prioritises youth employment, digital skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship as part of its long-term development strategy. The Chinese emphasis on linking industrial policy with workforce development offers an example of how governments can reduce the disconnect between economic growth and job creation. Equally important is the governance approach outlined in The Beautiful China Initiative. Environmental protection is not treated as a separate environmental agenda. Instead, it is integrated into broader economic planning and national modernisation efforts. The concept that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets reflects an understanding that ecological resources possess enduring economic and social value. The broader implication is that environmental sustainability is increasingly becoming an element of national competitiveness. Pollution control, green industries, renewable energy, ecological restoration, and low-carbon transition are all presented as long-term investments rather than short-term sacrifices. This perspective is particularly relevant at a time when climate change and environmental degradation are reshaping global development discussions. One of the most striking aspects of this chapter is its emphasis on balance and gradual transition. The text repeatedly warns against rushed approaches to carbon reduction or industrial restructuring. Instead, it advocates a phased transition that takes into account national conditions, energy security, industrial realities, and economic stability. Traditional industries are not dismissed outright but are expected to undergo technological upgrading and greener transformation. Many developing countries face the challenge of pursuing environmental commitments while still addressing industrialisation, infrastructure deficits, and employment demands. The Chinese framework suggests that ecological transition must be carefully managed to avoid undermining development itself. This balancing act is likely to become increasingly relevant across Africa as governments seek to expand energy access and industrial output while responding to growing climate pressures. Another consistent feature across both chapters is the emphasis on state capacity. Development is portrayed as requiring long-term planning, institutional coordination, policy continuity, and disciplined implementation. Whether discussing public services, employment, pollution control, or ecological restoration, the text repeatedly stresses the importance of a governance system capable of sustaining large-scale transformation over time. At the global level, the ideas presented in this series also reflect the evolution of development thinking. Earlier models of modernisation often prioritised economic growth first and addressed social or environmental concerns later. Increasingly, however, governments are being compelled to consider social inclusion, demographic pressures, ecological sustainability, and public wellbeing simultaneously. The Chinese framework outlined in the series reflects this broader shift. The significance of these two important themes therefore lies not only in what they reveal about China, but also in the wider development questions they address. They suggest that modernisation in the 21st century may depend less on growth alone and more on the ability of governments to balance economic ambition with social stability, environmental sustainability, and institutional resilience.

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People-centred modernisation, green development: What African countries can learn from China’s governance approach