The often negative perception of China’s activities in Africa by the West was noted. The image conveyed is that of a country coming to steal, destroy and confiscate. However, the reality is that China is taking a different approach to the African continent.
According to Westerners, China’s strategy is the Chinese Trap, which consists of offering financing for infrastructure construction, then demanding repayment of these loans. When African countries run into repayment difficulties, China reclaims certain assets for a period of 99 years, such as mines, ports or cities.
China and the West with very different methods of cooperation
Nevertheless, China does not impose its way of life or governance on African countries. In contrast to the West, China adopts a commercial approach and avoids interfering in the internal affairs of African countries. Admittedly, China is not a free country, but it does not seek to dictate the composition of governments or the rights to be granted. China focuses on business opportunities, leaving African countries to define their own internal structure. The West imposes its laws. What’s more, if you object, you’ll be penalized. This is the case in Zimbabwe and many other African countries. What’s more, the West comes to Africa with the intention of destroying and stealing, not developing like China.
The infrastructures built by China and those built by the West are comparable. Chinese infrastructure projects, particularly railroads, aim to link African cities. In contrast, Western infrastructure projects were often focused on transporting natural resources to ports.
It’s also worth pointing out that China did not support the apartheid regime in South Africa, unlike the West, which did. Western films have often created a dichotomy between the good guys (represented by the Americans) and the bad guys (represented by the Chinese or Russians), thus influencing public perception.
Africa must choose reliable partnerships but also learn to develop itself
Unfortunately, those who dare to stand up for Africa’s independence and development are sidelined. Kwame Nkrumah, Patrice Lumumba and Thomas Sankara were killed in their quest for African sovereignty. Before building a relationship with a power, it’s important to be aware of its past actions.
Negative Western perceptions of China’s involvement in Africa are highlighted. China’s strategy is focused on building infrastructure rather than political domination. There is a difference in philosophy between China and the West when it comes to cooperation with African countries. As a result, China adopts a commercial approach and respects the autonomy of African countries. Furthermore, Africa has a potential that it seems to ignore, necessary to move forward in peace, love and harmony.
Totally inspired by Zack Mwekassa’s video
