China's green playbook goes to Africa

China's experience in large-scale ecological restoration was highlighted at the Global Landscapes Forum Africa 2026, held in Nairobi from May 6 to 7.

The two-day conference brought together participants from 135 countries, both in person and online, to discuss rangeland restoration, environmental sustainability, and ways to improve the livelihoods of pastoral communities.

Zhong Chongjun, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Territorial Space Ecological Restoration at China's Ministry of Natural Resources, presented China's approach to restoring damaged land while generating economic value.

He highlighted China's Shan-Shui Initiative, a massive ecological restoration campaign spanning more than 100 million mu (about 6.7 million hectares) of forests, rivers, wetlands, and grassland nationwide. It was recognized by the United Nations as one of the first World Restoration Flagships.

Zhong also pointed to projects in Zhejiang Province and the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. In Zhejiang, ancient terraced fields and wetlands were restored and opened to tourism. The income generated was later reinvested in conservation efforts. In Ningxia, a former mining site was transformed into a vineyard that now produces award-winning wine.

Both projects reflect China's broader environmental philosophy, the "two mountains" concept, which holds that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets." It emphasizes that economic growth and environmental protection can go hand in hand rather than come at each other's expense. 

Zhong said the concept belongs not only to China but also to the world.
 

China has been sharing its experiences through platforms such as the Global Landscapes Forum and through partnerships with organizations including the World Bank Group.

André Aquino, head of the China-World Bank Group Global Center for Ecosystem Systems and Transitions, said many African countries are interested in learning from China's policy tools, financing models, and technologies. He said particular interest has focused on AI and remote sensing systems that can help monitor and restore landscapes more efficiently.

At the forum, the World Bank Group also announced the launch of the Livable Landscapes Academy, a new platform for ecological restoration training and knowledge sharing. According to Aquino, the academy will begin with a 24-month joint learning program involving the World Bank, China, and African partner countries.