From Nujiang to Dhaka: Sharing anti-poverty strategies with China
Al Mamun Harun Ur Rashid, back from Yunnan, China :
Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, once one of China’s poorest regions, has become a notable example of successful poverty alleviation, having overcome significant challenges such as its remote location, difficult terrain, and limited infrastructure.
During a visit to the Poverty Alleviation Communication Centre, officials proudly stated that extreme poverty has now been “put on the shelves” – displayed for all to see how the region overcame formidable obstacles and emerged as a national model of development.
Scholars from the Academy of Social Sciences in Yunnan suggested that poverty is a shared concern between China and Bangladesh, and both countries could exchange experiences to enhance their anti-poverty efforts.
Situated in the remote mountains of Yunnan Province and long affected by isolation, Nujiang has lifted over 269,600 people out of poverty, removed 249 villages and four counties (cities) from the national poverty list in 2020, and showcased these achievements in a centre dedicated to its transformation.
Officials at the Centre outlined the region’s multi-dimensional approach to poverty reduction, which included road construction, village relocation, investment in education, and the promotion of green industries.
“Before liberation from extreme poverty, Nujiang had no roads.
Locals described life as ‘seeing the sky as a slit, the land as a gorge; travelling by zip lines, farming like rock climbing,'” officials explained.
In earlier years, ethnic minorities endured harsh conditions, living in bamboo-and-thatch huts, wearing hemp clothing, and surviving on corn porridge.
Today, these images of deprivation are part of an exhibit, with officials emphasising that absolute poverty is now a thing of the past in Nujiang.
Centre officials highlighted five major poverty alleviation strategies that played a crucial role in transforming the region.
One key measure was prioritising transportation infrastructure to overcome geographic isolation.
During the 13th Five-Year Plan period, over 17 billion yuan was invested to build a “three vertical and four horizontal” highway network, improving connectivity across the challenging terrain.
Another vital strategy was the development of green industries. Officials promoted eco-friendly and sustainable businesses under the principle that “green mountains and clear waters are invaluable assets.”
Relocation was also a significant component of the poverty alleviation efforts. Over 100,000 people were relocated from areas deemed unfit for human habitation.
The government funded new communities equipped with healthcare, education, and economic workshops, ensuring smooth resettlement and improved living standards.
Job creation and the improvement of the development environment were central to the strategy.
Local industries such as tourism, cultural heritage, spice farming, valley agriculture, and biomedicine flourished with government support, generating employment and boosting regional growth.
Intellectual support through education and vocational training addressed what officials termed “quality poverty.” By equipping people with practical skills and knowledge, the region ensured that poverty eradication was both achieved and sustained.
According to Centre officials, during his inspection visit to Yunnan in January 2015, President Xi Jinping met with ethnic minority representatives from Nujiang and emphasised that “to achieve a moderately prosperous society in all respects, no ethnic group can be left behind.”
Exhibits at the Centre reveal striking contrasts: once “bamboo-walled, thatch-roofed, stilted huts with humans and livestock sharing space” have now been replaced by modern housing and vibrant communities. “These living conditions are now history,” officials declared.
At the Mi Jing Xia Gu Coffee Factory, a symbol of Nujiang’s economic revival, it is evident that the factory has partnered with local farmers to cultivate high-quality coffee beans, offering technical support and fair prices.
The owner, a university graduate turned entrepreneur, shared that the factory has created employment opportunities for local residents, especially women, in coffee processing and packaging.
By promoting Nujiang’s coffee nationally and internationally, Mi Jing Xia Gu has opened new markets and increased regional revenue.
“Coffee is more than just a product for us – it’s a tool for change,” said the founder. “By empowering farmers and creating jobs, we are helping to build a sustainable future for Nujiang.”
At Nujiang Vocational and Technical College, located in the mountains, education continues to empower the next generation.
The college offers vocational training in fields such as tourism and nursing, tailored to local needs.
It partners with businesses to provide internships and job placements, ensuring students can immediately contribute to regional development.
“Education is the most powerful weapon against poverty,” said Li Yebao, Party Secretary of the college.
“By giving our students practical skills and knowledge, we are not just transforming their lives – we are transforming entire communities.”
In a relocated area, the government provides Mandarin lessons and activities for the elderly, while women earn around 300 RMB daily by making handicrafts such as tennis balls, helping them secure better lives beyond poverty.
Officials noted that these collaborative approaches have produced remarkable results in poverty reduction.
By December 2020, Nujiang had officially eradicated absolute poverty. Residents were no longer subjected to hunger and cold, with guaranteed access to compulsory education, basic medical services, and safe housing, officials confirmed.
They emphasised that the Chinese government has empowered the local community to address its own challenges by utilising local resources with government support.