Are there lessons for Africa from China's success against poverty ?

Yes, according to Martin Ravallion's recent paper.

More resources here.

"While acknowledging that Africa faces constraints that China did not, and that context matters, two lessons stand out. The first is the importance of productivity growth in smallholder agriculture, which will require both market-based incentives and public support. The second is the role played by strong leadership and a capable public administration at all levels of government."