Today, driving and logistic mobility are more convenient and efficient in Rwanda, the landlocked country of a thousand hills. In 2023, this economic powerhouse in East Africa reached a significant economic growth of 8.2%.
One of the main reasons behind its robust economic growth is a well-connected and efficient national highway system. Chinese companies are good partners for these projects, such as the upgrading of urban roads in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, by the China Road & Bridge Corporation (CRBC) under China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC).
The Kigali City Council even awarded the project for its distinguished contribution to the beautification of the city in 2011.
Back in 1974, then Foreign Aid Office under the Chinese Ministry of Communications – the predecessor of China Road & Bridge Corporation (CRBC) – entered Rwanda’s engineering market.
The 160-kilometer Kigali-Rusumo road completed in 1977 became the main artery connecting Kigali with neighboring Tanzania.
Four decades later, the road remains in good condition, and has even garnered the reputation of the “African Model Road.”
With over 40 years of sound cooperation, Chinese companies have become household names in Rwanda as they undertake 70 percent of the country’s national highway construction. All of the projects have provided secondary benefits such as job creation, knowledge transfer and capacity building.
The highway system is not only connecting Rwanda’s provinces and villages, but also integrating itself with neighboring Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Finally, it is enhancing regional integration as well as stimulating trade among these countries, especially those who are members of the East African Community (EAC).
{{A road carries mushrooms, a road creates hope}}
For a long time, mushrooms were not on the menu for many Rwandan families, primarily due to old superstitious claims that a farmer who eats a mushroom will lose a cow. Today, mushrooms are not only a staple source of protein and other nutrients, but also generate cash.
Chinese experts in Rwanda say that mushrooms turn a profit quicker than traditional crops grown in the country, earning as much as 80,500 Rwandan francs (about 100 US dollars) per square meter after just eight days, compared to six months needed for sorghum or maize.
At the China-Rwanda Agricultural Technology Demonstration Centers (ATDCs), Chinese agronomists are sharing an efficient mushroom-growing method called “Juncao” or “mushroom grass,” invented by Professor Lin Zhanxi at Fujian Agricultural University in southeastern China in the 1980s.
With this method, mushrooms can grow quickly in agricultural waste and Juncao instead of traditional sawdust, helping preserve Rwanda’s forests.
So far, the Chinese have trained more than 1,000 Rwandans in the method, though it’s still a small and slow-growing industry. But some entrepreneurs in Rwanda and neighboring countries see the potential.
{{A path of pan-Africa rejuvenation}}
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has demonstrated effective leadership and zero tolerance for corruption while strengthening good governance and contributing significantly to global peace and order under the UN and the AU peacekeeping missions. All this shows Rwanda’s strong intentions to boost pan-Africa integration, especially after the historic African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement was signed in Kigali.
For decades, China has worked alongside African countries to contribute to many peacekeeping and humanitarian missions in many parts of the world, including on the continent itself. They’ve also worked together by exchanging experiences on poverty alleviation, infrastructure construction, medical assistance and the development of human resources.
As the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) will host new meetings in Beijing this year, China and Rwanda will strengthen the common idea in preserving Africa’s unity, promoting common development and letting African countries play a larger role in the international arena.
The prestigious Atelier du Vin was the perfect setting for an evening dedicated to the nostalgic sounds of R&B and soul classics. The venue buzzed with excitement as music lovers gathered, ready to be transported back in time by the soulful beats and melodies that defined generations.
As the night unfolded, DJ Akio took to the decks, spinning a masterful selection of soul tracks that had everyone swaying and dancing. His seamless transitions and deep cuts from the golden eras of soul music created an atmosphere that was both electric and intimate. Each track seemed to resonate with the crowd, evoking memories and emotions tied to the timeless genre.
Adding to the evening’s enchantment, the charismatic host Anita engaged the audience with her warm and infectious energy. She effortlessly connected with the crowd, sharing anecdotes and insights about the music, making everyone feel like part of a soulful community. Her presence elevated the night, turning it into more than just a concert, but a shared journey through music history.
The vibes were unbeatable, with people singing along to their favorite tracks, couples dancing closely, and groups of friends enjoying the infectious rhythm. The combination of impeccable music, a stunning venue, and a lively crowd made for an unforgettable experience.
Heineken’s sponsorship played a crucial role in bringing “Strictly Soul” to Kigali, showcasing their commitment to celebrating and promoting cultural events that bring people together. The night was a testament to the power of music to unite, uplift, and transport us to another time and place.
Located in Jinhua, East China’s Zhejiang province, the African Museum of Zhejiang Normal University is the only museum of its kind in China. It plays a vital role in educating students and visitors about the diverse and vibrant cultures of Africa, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the continent and the enduring ties between Africa and China.
Established in 2010 by Zhejiang Normal University’s Institute of African Studies, the museum spans 400 square meters and offers an immersive experience into African culture.
The exhibits feature a wide range of historical artifacts, accompanied by informative signage explaining their significance. From musical instruments and sculptures to household items, masks, and costumes, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of African cultural practices, history, and future prospects.
The Institute of African Studies, the first of its kind in China, has evolved to offer courses on economic development to both Chinese and international students. The campus hosts thousands of international students, many of whom hail from various African countries.
This diverse student body enhances cultural exchange and learning experiences within the university community.
Speaking to foreign journalists after touring the museum recently during the 8th edition of China-Africa Youth Festival, Prof. Yoro Diallo, Executive Director of the Center for Francophone Studies at the Institute of African Studies, observed that Africa-China relations are grounded in mutual respect and deep understanding of each other’s cultures.
Prof. Diallo noted that for some African students, the museum is their first opportunity to learn about their cultural heritage, as they may come from remote villages or lack access to cultural relics in their home countries.
He highlighted many cultural similarities and shared aspects of life between Africa and China, suggesting that such exchanges can lead to better mutual understanding and improved interactions.
Prof. Diallo also expressed optimism that a museum dedicated to Chinese culture will one day be established in Africa, allowing those who cannot travel to China to learn about its culture from home.
Zhejiang Normal University (ZJNU) was established in 1956. It is recognized as one of the first key universities in Zhejiang province. Currently, it serves a student body of 50,000, including 1,300 international students, and employs 3,000 faculty and staff members.
For the past 13 years, ZJNU has consistently ranked among the top 100 universities in China. According to the 2023 US News World University Ranking, it holds the 649th position globally and ranks 67th in mainland China. Eight of its disciplines are among the top 1% in the ESI ranking. The university has also developed a distinctive profile in educational research and African studies.
ZJNU has established cooperative relationships with over 280 universities and research institutions in more than 60 countries and regions. These collaborations include teacher and student exchanges, scientific research partnerships, and joint training programs.
Additionally, ZJNU has founded five overseas Confucius Institutes, one independent Confucius Classroom, one Chinese teaching center, and an overseas campus branch.
He made the disclosure at the opening ceremony of the 10th Ministerial Conference of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum at Diaoyutai State Guest House in Beijing on May 30, 2024.
As he delivered remarks, President Xi highlighted the historical ties and ongoing partnership between China and Arab nations, rooted in the ancient Silk Road and shared struggles for national development.
“The friendship between the Chinese and Arab peoples is deeply rooted in our friendly exchanges along the ancient Silk Road, in our joint struggles for national liberation, and in our win-win cooperation in promoting national development,” he stated.
Reflecting on the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict, President Xi reiterated China’s steadfast support for the establishment of an independent State of Palestine “that enjoys full sovereignty based on the 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as its capital.”
“War should not continue indefinitely. Justice should not be absent forever. Commitment to the two-state solution should not waver at will,” he asserted.
In a significant move, he announced additional financial support to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “On top of the previous RMB 100 million yuan of emergency humanitarian assistance, China will provide an additional RMB 500 million yuan [approximately US$70 million] of assistance to help ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and support post-conflict reconstruction,” President Xi declared.
President Xi further committed to donating US$3 million to the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East.
The Israel-Palestine conflict resurfaced last year after Hamas attacks on October 7 killed about 1,200 Israelis. Despite over 70 years of unresolved conflict and more than 130 UN resolutions, the war has reignited international divisions. China and Arab states support Palestinians, while Israel faces growing criticism, especially after striking Rafah in southern Gaza. On Monday, the Gaza Health Ministry reported the death toll from Israeli attacks since last October has reached 36,050.
The opening ceremony of the ministerial conference saw the participation of Arab leaders, including King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa of Bahrain, Egyptian President Abdul Fatah El-Sisi, Tunisian President Kais Saied, President Mohamed Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates, and Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit of the League of Arab States.
The leaders reaffirmed their stance on legitimizing Palestinian rights and establishing an independent Palestinian state. They also called for continued efforts to coordinate for lasting peace.
Among others, President Xi highlighted broader themes of cooperation and a shared future between China and Arab states. He shed light on the progress made since the first China-Arab States Summit in 2022 and announced plans for the second summit in China in 2026.
“China is satisfied with the progress we have made in delivering on the Summit’s outcomes. It will work with the Arab side to enhance the role of the Summit in providing strategic guidance for continued leapfrog growth of China-Arab relations,” he said.
Emphasizing mutual respect and shared goals, President Xi outlined five cooperation frameworks to build a China-Arab community with a shared future. These frameworks include innovation, investment and finance, energy cooperation, economic and trade ties, and people-to-people exchanges.
“Building a China-Arab community with a shared future is a strong statement of our common desire for a new era of China-Arab relations and a better future for the world,” he remarked.
President Xi also addressed the importance of global governance and multipolarity.
“The entire humanity shares one common future, which has become an inevitable trend. But deficits in governance, trust, peace, and development are getting wider. This calls on us to improve global governance under the principle of ‘planning together, building together, and benefiting together,’” he stated, expressing China’s readiness to work with Arab nations to champion an equal and inclusive global order.
Speaking to IGIHE, following the closing ceremony of the festival held from May 20th to 26th, 2024, the youths expressed their commitment to strengthening China-Africa relations.
The event which took place in Ruyi Hall of Your World International Conference Center in Yiwu County, Zhejiang Province, brought together Chinese officials and youth representatives from Africa and China.
A total of 64 youths from 52 African countries, including Rwanda, participated in the festival organized under the framework of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum (FOCAC).
The event also attracted nearly 30 African journalists participating in a four-month media exchange program organized by the China International Press Communication Center (CIPCC).
Throughout the festival, the youths visited significant sites such as the Common Prosperity Belt in Jindong, explored Chinese rural culture, toured the China-Africa Museum at Zhejiang Normal University, and visited Leapmotor, a new energy vehicle manufacturer.
In addition, they experienced traditional Chinese performances by the Zhejiang Wu Opera, visited the People’s Livelihood Conference Hall of the CPPCC, Hengdian World Studios, Yiwu International Trade Market, and Zhejiang Guangsha Vocational and Technical University of Construction.
This immersive experience allowed them to witness firsthand the rapid development and cultural richness of China.
{{Consolidating gains}}
Ghislain Niyonzima, a representative from Burundi who works with a travel agency shared his insights.
“Observing how China has developed its country, despite still working to achieve envisaged modernization, is impressive and inspiring. This teaches us a lesson about not being complacent, regardless of our achievements,” Niyonzima said.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining the gains achieved in China-Africa cooperation and highlighted the suitability of Chinese democracy in addressing people’s needs.
“We should learn from China’s homegrown solutions, which are suited to their people’s needs, to develop our own countries and ensure these values are deeply rooted in our culture as well,” added Niyonzima.
Danny Vassyli Mugisha, a Rwandan representative was particularly struck by China’s development over the past 40 years.
“A lot has been achieved in different aspects of development. From technological advancements to conserving the culture, everything is a source of inspiration. I also learned a valuable lesson from the commitment and discipline of the people of China, seeing how they have been able to go through tough times and succeed in just a few years. This is what I am taking with me home,” Mugisha noted.
Mugisha observed that the role of the youth is of great significance in consolidating gains attained through China-Africa cooperation, especially considering that the majority of people in Africa are young.
“People like me, who have had the opportunity to participate in such cultural exchanges, should share experiences with a view to uphold the rich legacy and strengthen bonds between China and Africa,” he said.
{{Poverty eradication}}
Cyprien Kouassi from Ivory Coast had a different impression about China until he got an opportunity to attend the festival, where he witnessed its development, political system, and overall progress firsthand.
“My view has changed. My message to African youth is that they must understand that poverty should not be a barrier, as China has demonstrated that it is possible to eliminate it,” he noted.
In 2021, China declared the eradication of extreme poverty, lifting 770 million people out of poverty since 1978 and establishing a moderately prosperous society.
{{Warm hospitality}}
Kouassi also appreciated Chinese hospitality, which he described as integral to the Asian country’s identity.
“Chinese hospitality has greatly impressed me. Since our arrival, the assistance of young volunteers who were with us, all the way from Beijing through Yiwu, has been impeccable,” he shared.
Kouassi emphasized that this mentality should be ingrained in African hearts so that such warm reception can be emulated in their countries.
“China has shown that everyone knows what hospitality is and they put it into action through the reception extended to us. Here, hospitality is among the major aspects making China’s unique identity,” he added.
Burundian Niyonzima also expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and hospitality, which has left him with indelible memories of his stay in China.
{{Rich legacy}}
Abdul Jabbar Hashim Kolo, a lawyer from Ateef Law Firm in Nigeria, was equally impressed and excited about what he saw in China.
“Even before coming to China, the whole world’s attention has been on what China has achieved in terms of development over the last forty years. But coming here, I have witnessed that seeing is better than hearing,” he noted.
Kolo highlighted that besides development, economic growth, and prosperity, he had also been able to appreciate China’s very rich culture.
“I have participated in activities of arts and crafts, wood carving, and minimal pottery as well, which are very similar to those in Africa. However, China has gone an extra mile by integrating it into educational institutions, allowing people to perfect their art,” added Kolo.
He expressed delight at the flourishing tourism sector of China, infrastructure, and manufacturing, all offering lessons worth replicating.
On furthering Africa-China cooperation, Kolo stressed the need for “a platform to see how we can continue this dialogue going forward so that the door remains open not only for African participants and China but also for Africans to communicate with each other.”
{{Governance lessons}}
During their visits, the youths also attended a session of the Representative Discussion Station of the Wuyi County-level Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
At the Wuyi People’s Livelihoods Consultative Hall, participants discussed a proposal to construct commercial streets.
The discussion included leaders and business representatives to ensure the project’s implementation meets community needs without setbacks.
According to Li Yangyong, Chairman of the Wuyi Committee of the CPPCC, these consultations are part of the CPPCC model and involve several stages, including research and engagements with relevant stakeholders.
The agreed-upon resolutions are forwarded to higher authorities, with the hope of endorsement, considering the thorough consultations and research conducted beforehand.
While the Two Sessions address major national issues, the CPPCC consultations in Wuyi focus on the daily lives of villagers.
Nigerian Kolo disclosed that he appreciated the discursive nature of the CPPCC consultations, as well as their approach to involving people in development and preparing for future challenges.
“They didn’t just come and build it; they made the community understand what they were doing. This creates a sense of ownership of the project within the community and gives insight into the intentions of the people, making it easier for them to embrace and support the project,” he noted.
Kouassi from Ivory Coast also indicated that Africa should learn from the political system of China, which is designed to address the needs of the population through decentralization, from the central leadership of CPC in Beijing to a small village in Wuyi. “I mostly liked the structure that ensures that people’s problems are accurately represented,” he noted.
With a population of 1.4 billion, Africa is the continent with the youngest population worldwide, with over 400 million aged between 15 and 35.
Tanzanian Joseph Brighton Malekela, Chief Operations Officer of the Africa-Asia Youth Foundation, called on the youth to learn and understand the history behind the enduring friendship between China and Africa marked by solidarity and cooperation spanning centuries for them to carry the legacy forward.
{{Fruitful cooperation}}
Liu Hongwu, Director of the Institute of African Studies at Zhejiang Normal University, highlighted that Africa made enormous contributions to the development of China and observed that China is always committed to supporting developing African countries.
Liu reminisced about the fact that 80% of the global south are developing countries and stressed the need for joint efforts and ventures for the Chinese and African dreams to materialize.
China, the world’s second-largest economy, has been a major contributor to African development through different initiatives, notably through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which continues to drive remarkable progress in Africa, forging strong ties between China and African nations, while fostering economic growth and cooperation across the continent.
Experts project that by 2040, the BRI could increase the world GDP by $7.1 trillion annually, benefiting world trade by overcoming the frictions caused by inadequate infrastructure.
Over 50 African countries have joined the BRI, embracing the rewards of improved infrastructure, reduced unemployment, and expanded trade opportunities. Driven by the BRI, Chinese companies have undertaken awe-inspiring infrastructure projects in Africa.
Over the period of 23 years, they have constructed or upgraded more than 10,000 kilometers of railways, nearly 100,000 kilometers of roads, approximately 1,000 bridges, and 100 ports. These transformative projects have not only enhanced trade but have also created over 4.5 million jobs, breathing new life into African communities.
Rwanda’s Presidency has stated Kagame met with Minister Abdoulaye Diop on the evening of Monday, May 27, 2024, at Village Urugwiro. The meeting was also attended by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vincent Biruta.
The discussions between President Kagame and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mali followed the signing of 19 agreements between the two countries earlier that Monday. These agreements covered various sectors including health, security, agriculture, technology, culture, and investment promotion.
The agreements were signed following a three-day meeting that took place from May 25-27, 2024, involving a delegation of leaders from both Rwanda and Mali.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vincent Biruta, noted that since Mali opened its embassy in Rwanda in February 2017, significant progress has been made, including the signing of agreements in various fields in 2023. These agreements laid the foundation for enhanced development-focused cooperation between the two countries.
Minister Diop expressed confidence that the ongoing collaboration between Rwanda and Mali will continue to yield substantial benefits.
Rwanda and Mali have a history of cooperation in various sectors, including an agreement on air transport that allows aircraft from both countries to use each other’s international airports.
Dr. Biruta highlighted the progress made since Mali opened its embassy in Rwanda in February 2017, noting that several agreements were signed in 2023, laying the foundation for further cooperation.
The 19 agreements signed on May 27, 2024, cover various sectors, including health, security, agriculture, technology, culture, and investment promotion. Dr. Biruta expressed confidence that a joint committee from both sides would work together to implement these agreements effectively.
He also mentioned that additional agreements are in the pipeline and will be signed in the near future.
Minister Biruta emphasized that the meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss security issues in different parts of Africa, fostering a culture of dialogue on peace and security.
Mali’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, praised the strong relationship between Rwanda and Mali, which benefits both countries and their citizens.
He mentioned that the agreements signed on Monday include cooperation in justice, mining, oil and gas, agriculture, fishing, environment, climate change mitigation, tourism development, higher education, transportation, and the movement of people and goods.
Diop noted that the current activities of both countries indicate that Rwanda and Mali will continue to reap significant benefits from this positive relationship.
He stated that with the goal of building a peaceful, independent, and strong Africa, Rwanda and Mali share a good political relationship and expressed confidence that the resolutions made will lead to increased activities between the two countries.
The first meeting of the joint committee to discuss the signed agreements and related projects is scheduled to take place in Mali in the near future.
Rwanda and Mali already cooperate in various sectors, including an air transport agreement allowing aircraft from both countries to use each other’s international airports.
In 2022, Malian military leaders visited Rwanda to learn from the experience of the Rwanda Defense Forces, agreeing to formalize this cooperation shortly after. In 2017, Mali’s Minister of Justice visited Rwanda and announced the establishment of a mediation body to resolve citizens’ disputes.
The Auditor General conducts annual audits of all institutions that use public funds to ensure they are used efficiently.
The findings are compiled into a report highlighting any misuse or mismanagement of state resources. This report is then presented to Parliament, which takes further action. For instance, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) summons the institutions identified for poor management to publicly explain the discrepancies.
One might wonder, “What happens next?” The answer lies in the vigilance of other government institutions that oversee the use of public funds.
The Auditor General scrutinizes all institutions associated with public fund usage, focusing on three main areas: accounting records, adherence to laws and regulations, and value for money [ensuring that expenditures match the financial outlay].
Historically, local government entities, particularly districts, have frequently been cited for financial mismanagement. However, the 2023 Auditor General’s report indicates significant progress in rectifying these issues.
According to the report, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, the districts and Kigali City were allocated Rwf1,127 billion. The Auditor General examined how these funds were utilized and whether the accounting records accurately reflected their use.
The 2023 report shows that 25 out of 27 districts and Kigali City, representing 92.5%, had no significant issues in their accounting records, a notable improvement from previous years. In 2022, only 12 districts were found to be without issues, while in 2021, none met this standard.
Beyond accounting, significant strides were also made in other areas. For instance, in the 2022/2023 fiscal year, six districts were found to be compliant with fund management standards, up from zero in 2021.
Minister of Local Government, Jean Claude Musabyimana, attributed this progress to various initiatives, including peer learning programs, collaborative efforts among financial oversight personnel, timely provision of necessary documentation to auditors, advisory support, and capacity building.
“As the Ministry of Local Government, we commend everyone involved, including districts and partners, for their role in achieving this milestone. Our government remains committed to accountability as a path to development,” he said.
Improvements were also noted in the implementation of the Auditor General’s recommendations, with an average implementation rate of 67% in 2023, up from 65% in 2022 and 56.5% in 2021.
Nyaruguru District led with an 84% implementation rate, while Ngoma was the lowest at 46%.
Additionally, there was a reduction in the number of districts summoned by the PAC, with only six districts appearing in 2023 compared to previous years. These districts were Burera, Nyagatare, Rulindo, Muhanga, Ngoma, and Rubavu.
Sheikh Salim Hitimana, the outgoing Mufti of Rwanda, announced his decision to withdraw from the candidacy, citing his eight-year tenure and confidence in Sheikh Sindayigaya Mussa’s capabilities.
He said, “I trust him and know that he can achieve even more than I could. You made the right choice in selecting him for this position. I have decided to withdraw my candidacy due to my eight years of service and 30 years since 1994 working for this community. You understand that this is a long time.”
The new Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Sindayigaya, expressed his gratitude for the leadership of his predecessor and the committee, as well as for the support he received in the election.
He stated, “We will build on what they have achieved and the strong foundations they have left us. We are confident that they will continue to support us in uniting the Muslim community in Rwanda.”
Sheikh Sindayigaya emphasized the importance of cooperation and unity, saying, “We will promote teamwork and complement each other. We will continue to strengthen the unity of Muslims. Unity is paramount, and we will strive to build and maintain the unity of Muslims.”
Mushumba Yunusu was elected as the Deputy Mufti, while Ibrahim Segisekure was chosen to handle conflict resolution within the Rwanda Muslim Community.
Sheikh Sindayigaya also highlighted the focus on major development projects aimed at empowering the Muslim community in Rwanda.
He said, “We will consider large-scale development projects to enable the Muslim community in Rwanda to become self-reliant and undertake necessary initiatives. We will look into significant projects aimed at achieving self-sufficiency.”
The elections also included the selection of the Supreme Council, consisting of 61 religious scholars from all districts of the Supreme Council, the country and representatives of various sectors.
The Fifth Rwanda Population and Housing Census (RPHC) conducted in 2022 indicated that Muslims make up 2% of the population.
Wanfo Pagoda’s reputation for grandeur and beauty spread rapidly across Southeast China, earning it the prestigious title of “Number One Pagoda in Zhejiang.” Its towering presence, with multiple levels and exquisite decoration, made it a focal point in the region. However, during the Anti-Japanese War, the pagoda’s height rendered it a potential lookout point for enemy forces.
To prevent Japanese troops from exploiting its vantage, the pagoda was sadly demolished. Yet, in 1957, the uncovering of its underground chamber revealed 183 precious cultural relics, including the illustrious “Water Moon Guanyin,” now a national first-class cultural treasure.
In 2020, the Wanfo Pagoda was reconstructed, meticulously designed to reflect its Song Dynasty origins while incorporating modern engineering. The new structure standing 99.99 meters tall, boasts hexagonal cornices with nine exterior layers and eight inner layers. Built with a steel-concrete frame, it features traditional Song architectural elements such as caissons, moon-shaped beams, and ornate wall carvings.
This harmonious blend of ancient design and contemporary techniques has positioned Wanfo Pagoda as a benchmark for cultural and architectural excellence in central Zhejiang.
Inside the pagoda, over 7,000 Buddha niches and more than 3,700 brick carvings recreate the spiritual and artistic grandeur of the original structure. The first level houses the majestic Shakyamuni Buddha statue, accompanied by depictions of his ten great disciples. The floor, inlaid with various types of jade, showcases masterful mosaic craftsmanship.
Beneath the pagoda, the underground chamber spans over 1,900 square meters, resembling a small museum. It features murals illustrating Buddha’s life stories and intricately carved wood sculptures by Master Lu Guangzheng, blending Buddhist themes with local Jinhua elements.
This space not only honors the past but also educates visitors on the China’s rich cultural heritage.
