Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema's visit to the Chinese mainland (September 10–16) isn't just a diplomatic handshake—it's a power move in today's polarized world. From the iconic TAZARA railway to Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects, China and Zambia’s bond has been decades in the making. Here’s why this trip matters for both nations—and the Global South at large.
History on Track 🚂
Remember 1971? Zambia backed China’s UN seat restoration, and Beijing returned the favor by building the TAZARA railway—a lifeline connecting Zambia to Tanzania’s ports. Fast-forward to 2023: BRI investments in infrastructure and trade continue to shape Zambia’s economy, with China as its top development partner.
Defying Polarization 🌐
As global alliances shift, Zambia’s outreach challenges the U.S.-led ‘with-us-or-against-us’ narrative. President Hichilema’s trip highlights a growing trend: nations prioritizing multilateral partnerships over Cold War-style blocs. Think of it as diplomacy’s ‘slow fashion’ moment—durable, sustainable, and tailored to local needs.
What’s Next? 💼
Expect talks on debt restructuring, green energy, and tech collaboration. With China eyeing critical minerals (hello, copper-rich Zambia!) and Zambia seeking infrastructure upgrades, this visit could spark deals that ripple across Africa—and redefine South-South cooperation.
