The Chinese investment group, Great Africa Human Mother (GAHM) International, has announced plans to build 1,000 industrial towns across Africa, with construction set to begin in 2025.
Speaking to a delegation of English-speaking media professionals touring the company’s projects in Beijing, GAHM International’s founder and co-chairperson, William Wang, outlined the vision for this large-scale initiative. The media group was hosted by the China International Press Communication Centre.
Mr. Wang explained that the company would contribute financial resources, technology, expertise, management systems, and market access to support the towns, with the aim of creating mutually beneficial partnerships. Management of the towns will remain under the control of local governments, councils, and boards, while the company will provide support as required.
Key Areas of Focus
Drawing on his 25 years of experience working in Africa, Mr. Wang noted that the industrial towns will focus on key sectors such as agriculture, food processing, healthcare, education, housing, and skills development. These initiatives aim to boost economic growth, generate employment, and advance industrialization throughout the continent.
Shifting to Renewable Energy
Mr. Wang also stressed the importance of moving away from traditional energy sources like hydropower and thermal energy in favor of sustainable, green energy solutions. He highlighted issues such as climate change, droughts, resource depletion, and pollution as critical challenges facing traditional energy systems.
To ensure the success of these projects, Mr. Wang shared that GAHM International carries out comprehensive assessments, deploying expert teams to evaluate prospective sites before signing agreements.
Initial Investment and Future Plans
GAHM International has allocated a minimum of 10 billion RMB (yuan) to fund the initiative, with work expected to commence in July 2025.
The co-chairperson also emphasized that the group is ready to invest in African countries, including Somalia, highlighting its vast natural resources and ownership of the longest coastline in Africa as major opportunities for development.
Highlighting Zimbabwe’s potential, Mr. Wang pointed out the country’s vast mineral wealth and expressed interest in forming partnerships with both public and private sectors to develop industrial towns. He also praised the tourist appeal of Victoria Falls, describing it as a destination with the potential to become a global attraction.
Source: ZBC
