By Stanley Bangura Junior
Chairman of Sierra Leone Broadcasters Association, Sierra Leone
CHINA: The TRUE- LIES
Have you ever been to China? or you are planning a trip? The country called China in the western eyes is a country in the globe where there is nothing to write home about. Yes, the western media clouded what truly obtains about China, its people and culture. I held the mindset built by the west about China until I had the opportunity to travel there on a journalist seminar in 2011.
In Beijing, we witnessed the rich heritage of Chinese culture and preservation. The Chinese culture is alive for every visitor to see and touch. The language, food, dress and medicine are deeply integrated in the daily lives of the Chinese. The food they eat and utilization of local herbs for medicine explains the longevity of the Chinese as opposed to our country where everything western has taken prominence. Our visit to the forbidden city highlights how ancient governance structures are preserved for the future. The Agricultural Museum speaks to the transition that country has witnessed to date and how much lessons are there for African to learn if it is serious to end poverty and feed it people.
The great Wall is not only a visiting site for Chinese and other nationals but a source of revenue generation. Our visit to the provinces and farm sites tells the undying energy the people of China have and how same has helped them to remain true to what they are as Chinese.
Don’t be caught up by the lies painted about the Chinese and China. The Truth is, China is a world leader in every respect and anything under the sun. I will visit again and again, to learn how we can develop our country the Chinese way.
*The views and opinions expressed in the articles are solely those of the individual authors and do not reflect the position of the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Journalist Network.