In the activity report presented by the Chinese Prime Minister during the two sessions of 2025, technology and innovation, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), were highlighted as key concepts for the future. To better understand the evolution of this sector, a team of journalists traveled to southern China, to Shenzhen, the pioneering city of new technologies. There, they captured the pulse of innovations that are shaping the future.
One of the most fascinating innovations is the development of exoskeletons, devices designed to enhance human physical capabilities. In Shenzhen, exoskeletons allow tourists to effortlessly climb Tai mountains, an example of how technology can merge with tourism. According to local experts, optimizing the human body and improving physical condition are areas with growing demand, especially in a global context where population aging is becoming increasingly evident.
What’s interesting is that while in many countries exoskeletons are expensive and heavy, in China, a lighter, more compact, and affordable version is being developed, using artificial intelligence to make these devices more accessible to a wider audience. This combination of AI with exoskeleton technology not only opens up new possibilities for tourism but also for the labor sector, where elderly people, particularly in industries like construction and agriculture, could greatly benefit from this technology to increase their productivity.
Read also: Congo: Advancing towards energy self-sufficiency with the support of the African Development Bank
On the other hand, in the field of aerial mobility, Shenzhen is also positioning itself as a global leader with its developments in electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL). These aircraft, presented as an alternative to traditional air transportation, are designed to facilitate the transport of people in areas with little road infrastructure, making them an ideal solution for the African continent. eVTOLs can be used to transport medicines, construction products, and other essential goods, as well as for rescue operations and emergency transport.
The advancement of these electric vertical takeoff vehicles is not limited only to transport efficiency but is also marked by their ability to serve as a solution in areas where infrastructure is deficient, as is the case in many parts of Africa. Zhang Yao, founder of ANGAVIA, highlighted that his company is actively working to bring these electric aircraft to Africa, a market with great potential for development in this sector. With the right digital infrastructure, like the one already being developed by Chinese companies in Africa, the arrival of these vehicles could transform the way remote communities access medical resources, food, and other essential services.
During a dialogue with experts like Elvin Sunathree, founder of Smart Nest, and Zhang Yao, founder of ANGAVIA, it was discussed how these technologies not only have the potential to change transportation and mobility dynamics but also to improve working conditions and quality of life in rural and urban areas of Africa. Elvin, who has experience working in China and now runs his own business in Mauritius, emphasized that cooperation between China and Africa is essential for the development of these technologies. He highlighted that small and medium-sized companies, like his own, have the flexibility to innovate and adapt to the specific needs of each region.
Read also: Equatorial Guinea: Dreams Hub and ANDGE explore potential areas of collaboration
In this sense, the collaboration between China and Africa in the field of technology could open new opportunities for African countries, from improving digital infrastructure to offering solutions in key sectors like health, transport, and education. Elvin and Zhang agree that technology can be transferred directly to Africa, as long as the right conditions for its implementation are created. With adequate digital infrastructure and a joint commitment from governments, companies, and society, new technologies can have a real and lasting impact on Africa’s transformation.
The interview with the invited experts also included the opinion of Oscar Nchaso, the founder and CEO of our news portal, who from Equatorial Guinea leads Dreams Hub, a leadership and entrepreneurship center, and a member of AfriLabs, the largest network of innovation centers in Africa. Oscar, who studied and lived in China for nearly 7 years, described the development of Chinese technology as fascinating. He emphasized the importance of going beyond a simple transfer of technologies, stating that “China’s technological development is impressive. In just a few decades, the country went from being a mere manufacturer to a global leader in key fields like 5G, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy.”
“For Africa, this dynamic opens up numerous opportunities. China is already a key technological partner on the continent, with investments in telecommunications, digital platforms, and smart cities. However, for this cooperation to be truly beneficial, it should not be limited to the transfer of technology. It is essential that African countries also develop their own capacities by strengthening local skills and promoting innovation.” Nchaso concluded that the future of Sino-African collaboration in technology will depend on our ability to go beyond a purely commercial relationship.
Technological innovation is advancing rapidly in areas like artificial intelligence and aerial mobility, and these innovations have the potential to significantly transform everyday life, especially in Africa. Cooperation between China and Africa, as well as the development of technologies such as exoskeletons and eVTOLs, promises to change the way we move, work, and live, creating new opportunities for economic and social development on the continent.
