To achieve the SDGs, Africa must pursue robust and inclusive growth, rooted in meaningful economic transformation. As described by Atta-Mensah (2015) and Atta-Mensah (2017), economic transformation is the process by which an economy transitions from a predominantly rural and agrarian base to a middle-income, urbanized economy driven by industry and services. This transformation is not simply about growth; it requires a fundamental restructuring of economic systems to enhance productivity and diversify industries. Aiming for the SDGs, Africa needs strong, inclusive growth alongside structural economic transformation that builds resilience to external shocks. Economic transformation, as defined by Syrquin (1988), involves a shift from poverty and a rural-based economy to middle-income status, with increased contributions from industry and services to GDP and employment. Key elements of this transformation include industrialization, increased agricultural productivity, urbanization, and a transition from primary to value-added products. This process enables deeper integration into global supply chains, continuous learning, technological advancement, and skill development, ultimately leading to higher productivity, greater income per capita, and job creation. Such transformation involves critical shifts, including industrialization, increased agricultural productivity, and a move from raw commodity exports to value-added products. These developments enable countries to integrate into global supply chains, drive technological advancements, and foster a culture of continuous learning. Ultimately, effective economic transformation boosts productivity, raises income per capita, and generates employment opportunities. However, it is essential to recognize that economic transformation may not initially produce equitable growth. In its early stages, transformation often brings increased income inequality, as suggested by Kuznets (1955). The Kuznets’ curve suggests that initial industrialization leads to greater income inequality, but as economies progress, inequality decreases as productivity and wages rise. Beyond economics, transformation also reshapes society, influencing education, urbanization, gender roles, family structures, cultural norms, and political engagement. Industrialization typically brings a stronger focus on education and skill development, leading to higher literacy rates and diverse career paths. Urban migration changes lifestyles, fostering more secular attitudes and cultural diversity. Women gain independence through workforce participation, shifting family dynamics and gender roles. Families tend to become smaller and more nuclear, while societal values increasingly favor innovation and individualism. Politically, a more informed population advocates for transparency, democracy, and human rights, strengthening civil society. While economic transformation is crucial for achieving the SDGs, it may not result in shared growth immediately. Initial phases can lead to uneven development and rising income inequality, as outlined by Kuznets (1955). Yet, as transformation progresses, modernized economic, social, and institutional structures reshape human life, values, norms, and customs, shifting from traditional to modern frameworks. These changes affect educational needs, family formation, gender relations, and personal status. Transformation also impacts transportation, communication, legal systems, and institutional innovation, requiring new laws to protect property rights and sustain innovation. What can Africa learn from the China? China’s remarkable transformation offers valuable insights for Africa’s development journey. Here are some critical lessons Africa can draw from China: