Rwandan author's book on China-Rwanda ties set for Chinese translation

A book on Rwanda-China relations is set to reach a new audience as it undergoes translation into Chinese, a move its author has said will help deepen understanding of the two countries' governance philosophies and shared development journeys.

KIGALI, Aug. 16 (Xinhua) -- A book on Rwanda-China relations is set to reach a new audience as it undergoes translation into Chinese, a move its author has said will help deepen understanding of the two countries' governance philosophies and shared development journeys.

Gerald Mbanda, a Rwandan researcher and publisher, first released "China and Rwanda: Effective Leadership is Key to Transformational Governance" in English in 2021. The Chinese edition, to be produced by the Confucius Institute at the University of Rwanda, will make the work more accessible to millions of Chinese-speaking readers.

In a recent interview with Xinhua in the Rwandan capital of Kigali, Mbanda said the translation will help foster mutual trust between the two nations.

"Translating it into Chinese would be a great advantage because many readers understand Chinese better or feel more comfortable reading in Chinese than in English," he said. "This will allow Chinese readers to gain deeper insights into Rwanda's governance culture and see the similarities between China and Rwanda in terms of governance choices."

Mbanda expressed confidence that Chinese readers will be particularly interested in the political histories of the two countries, both of which overcame different forms of external disruption to rebuild their economies, cultural identities, and political autonomy.

The book also draws parallels between the governance models of the Communist Party of China and the Rwandan Patriotic Front, highlighting their emphasis on home-grown solutions, according to the author.

Mbanda noted that since the book's release, major developments have taken place in bilateral relations, including China's elevation of ties with Rwanda to a "comprehensive strategic partnership" during the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Beijing.

He said the new chapter in relations "signifies a deep, long-term commitment to cooperation across multiple sectors."

"The book can serve as a valuable resource for future research, policy dialogues, and educational programs that promote a better understanding of the two civilizations, while contributing to the well-being of the peoples of both countries, Africa, and the wider world," Mbanda added. ■