Zhou Shanjian (second from right), former general manager of Malawi Huagang Construction Co Ltd and chairman of the Overseas Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Lilongwe. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Zhou Shanjian, Zhoushan native and also former general manager of Malawi Huagang Construction Co Ltd, has taken an active role in the development of Malawi.

"I was among the Chinese people who went to Malawi before the two countries established diplomatic relations," said Zhou. He added that he saw many locals were shirtless and shoeless when he first arrived in the country and that Chinese people brought China-made clothes and shoes to them, making them very happy.

In 2007, the two countries forged diplomatic relations. Zhou noted that since then, a growing number of Chinese people have come to Malawi and that the country is currently home to nearly 2,000 Chinese people.

Malawi is a poor country in Africa. Zhou said that his company makes donations to local impoverished families and children each year. During the COVID-19 outbreak in Malawi, the Overseas Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Lilongwe chaired by Zhou donated more than 100,000 yuan ($15,000) worth of medical supplies to the country.

Street view of Lilongwe, capital city of Malawi. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]