Somalia sets food sovereignty, technological development as economic priorities: president

The two top priorities for Somalia's economic development lie in food sovereignty and technological development, according to the country's president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

In an interview with China Central Television (CCTV) aired on Friday, Mohamud stressed that Somalia is working to tap into its abundant resources in order to keep its people fed.

"Somalia is now focusing on food security, and not only food security, but the food sovereignty that we need. And we have that capability. We have very reliable and strong sources of blue economy. We have almost 9 million hectares of arable land with two permanent rivers throughout the year. We have the largest per capita of livestock in the African continent. So we have the opportunity to develop and have food self-sufficiency, but the means and the resources and the know-how, these are the challenges that we are handling," he said.

The president also underscored the country's urgent need for technological development, noting that China has lent a crucial helping hand in this regard.

"China has made very, very fast and wide strides of technological development. If I give you a good example today, all the communication companies here in Somalia -- 100 percent use Chinese technology. All of them, the internet, the telephone lines, everything is from China. And that shows that China is more open for the technology, to allow Africa benefit from that advanced technology. That is an opportunity for the world in general and for Africa in particular," Mohamud said.

Somalia sets food sovereignty, technological development as economic priorities: president

As temperatures drop in the north hemisphere, large flocks of swans have migrated from the colder north to Jinxian County of Nanchang City in warmer east China's Jiangxi Province to tide over the winter.

This year, thanks to the improved environment, over 10,000 swans have arrived in the vast stretches of wetlands in the county, according to staff of the local forestry bureau.

These beautiful creatures have attracted many birdwatchers, residents, and visitors eager to capture the scene.

"I have been coming here to photograph birds for 12 consecutive years. Each year, I have different experiences in bird photography. Over recent years, I've felt that the ecological system in Jinxian has improved significantly, and the varieties of migratory birds have also increased. This change is a result of everyone's efforts to protect and love birds. Every time I see a stunning scene, my mood is different," said Fan Zheping, a birdwatcher.

Not far from the site, Nanchang City has built a natural education and science popularization base featuring specimen displays, immersive VR experiences, and 3D video presentations.

"Such an immersive experience is not only particularly novel and interesting, but also deepens our understanding of the importance of protecting migratory bird habitats and safeguarding nature," said Luo Canqi, a local pupil.

East China county sees arrivals of over 10,000 swans for wintering