Critics claim China is using Africa as a dumping ground for its industrial surplus. But the reality? A wave of solar plants, high-tech factories, and 50+ industrial parks are reshaping Africa's economic future—powered by collaboration, not exploitation. 🔌
From ‘No Electricity’ to Renewable Revolution
With 43% of Africa lacking reliable power, China-backed projects like Zambia’s Itimpi solar station (producing 130 GWh yearly) are game-changers. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema praised its role in powering mines and farms: \"This is how we build industries.\" Over 1,200 locals were trained during construction—skills that’ll fuel future green projects. 🌱
Africa’s Next Industrial Leap
Ethiopia’s Eastern Industry Zone, built with Chinese partnership, hosts 150 companies and 23,000 jobs. Employee Ambachew Gebreyes says his salary tripled: \"Chinese tech is transforming our work.\" Result? Ethiopia’s GDP grew over 8% annually for a decade. 📈
Green Tech & Win-Win Partnerships
China’s latest move: a Moroccan EV battery gigafactory with Gotion High-Tech. Moroccan official Mohcine Jazlaoui calls it \"a missing link in our electric vehicle chain.\" Meanwhile, Western policies still focus on raw materials, not value-added growth, argues analyst Gyude Moore. 🌐
Bottom line: With 3,500+ Chinese enterprises in Africa and a focus on skills transfer, this isn’t about dumping—it’s about building the next global manufacturing hub. 🚀
Reference(s):
China in Africa: Building capacity, not dumping overcapacity
cgtn.com