A Shared Future: China steps up peacekeeping efforts in African countries

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China has been boosting its peacekeeping efforts in Africa: from Mali to South Sudan, and from the Democratic Republic of Congo to the Central African Republic. CGTN's Leslie Mirungu tells us more about the lives of Chinese peacekeepers in the UN Mission in Liberia.

With that rifle, Wang Ronghua can bring down a target more than a kilometre away.

Wang's a true marksman and he loves what he does.

WANG RONGHUA CHINESE SOLDIER, UN MISSION IN LIBERIA "In Liberia, I have formed the deepest feeling with the rifle, I once held the gun for five days and five nights straight, I protect it like it has life, I love it as much as I love my eyes."

Wang found his vocation by chance. Soon after he'd joined the police at 18, he took part in a national competition.

WANG RONGHUA CHINESE SOLDIER, UN MISSION IN LIBERIA "I was a natural with the rifle, maybe talent or fate. I won the competition in Guang Xi, and I was trained in the top armed police college called China People's Armed Police Force Special Police College. This college has trained the Snow Leopard Commando Unit which was conferred by President Xi Jinping."

Demands on the unit are high. Peacekeepers are called on to protect people at times putting themselves in harm's way. Despite their extensive training, there's a constant sense of anxiety. On top of that, there's homesickness.

SHI JING DUTY OFFICER, FIFTH CHINA FORMED POLICE UNIT, UNMIL "I grew up a bit of a tomboy, with strong personal opinions on life. Fortunately, my parents are open-minded and my mother pushed me to cautiously go after set goals. I feel guilty that I am not grateful to them, that I cannot take care of them as their daughter but I am also grateful for their support and not limiting my dreams."

25-year-old Shi Jing is a duty officer at the command centre. She felt compelled to join the mission to Liberia, even though she misses her family. The Liberian mission recently ended, so she's back home now. Others are not as lucky.

Violence broke out in South Sudan in 2016.

Two Chinese peacekeepers were killed in clashes. The fourth Chinese peacekeeping battalion commemorated their sacrifice. And renewed their pledge to continue their duties. LM, CGTN.