The delegation learns about the production of the black chicken in Donglan county of Hechi. [Photo by Pan Jian/Hechi Daily]

A Zimbabwean delegation visited Donglan county in Hechi to investigate the black chicken industry earlier in March, hoping to introduce some of the technology to their home country.

Officials from the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe and representatives from the county's animal husbandry bureau and chicken breeding enterprises accompanied the delegation.

The team was led by Collins Mnangagwa, son of the President of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. He previously studied in China for eight years and has taken an interest in China's Belt and Road Initiative. During his visit in Beijing, he learned about the rapid development of the Donglan black-boned chicken industry and considered replicating the strategy to boost the agricultural industry back in Zimbabwe.

The delegation was shown around a chicken farm and a chicken breeding base in Sanshi town and was briefed about how the local industry developed.

The team is briefed about the development of the industry. [Photo by Pan Jian/Hechi Daily]

The practices and technology will greatly benefit agricultural development in Zimbabwe, according to Mnangagwa, who decided to report back to his country and seek opportunities for cooperation.

The black chicken, also known as "three-black chickens" due to their black skin, feathers and bones, is an important agricultural product in Donglan county. With its highly nutritious eggs and meat, the chicken is ideal for both cuisine and food therapy.

Donglan has a long history of black-boned chicken breeding. The main production areas are located in Donglan's Changjiang, Sanshi, Lanmu and Changle towns. Donglan's chicken was designated as China's geographical indication agricultural product by the Ministry of Agriculture.

Zimbabwe is an inland country in southern Africa with rich natural resources. The manufacturing, agricultural and mining industries form the backbone of its national economy.