China in Africa: Whose Interest?

Abstract

The gap/lag in development in many African countries and the necessity to fill this gap have been the explanation for China’s enormous presence in many African countries. China’s engagement in the African continent includes foreign aid, grants, infrastructure development, and trade relationship. These engagements have deepened the impact/influence of China on the Continent, politically and economically. Various factors have alluded to the budding relationship between China and many African countries. One such is the shared economic and political history similar to many African countries. Although several investors are investing in development in Africa, China seems to have gained an unprecedented increased presence and partnership in the African continent consecutively in recent times. Diverse reactions trail the enormous presence of China in the African continent, especially the balance of benefits between China and African countries. Despite these various concerns and uncertainty, many African countries continue to encourage and promote relations with China. This work is set to assess the impact of China’s engagement in the Africa Continent, on whose side the balance of convenience tilts or otherwise. Lastly, this work will evaluate the sustainability of a long-term projection/relation between China and African countries.