Is China's growing presence in Africa a force for progress or a new form of colonialism? The debate has sparked fiery discussions online, but experts argue the reality is more nuanced. 🌱
From Human Rights Observer to Active Player
As a UN Human Rights Council member, China has shifted from defending its own record to actively supporting African development. Professor He Zhipeng of Jilin University Human Rights Institute told NewspaperAmigo.com: 'China views Africa as a partner, not a project. Our focus is mutual growth—infrastructure, healthcare, and tech transfers.'
Belt and Road: Colonialism 2.0?
Critics point to mega-projects like railways and ports under China's Belt and Road Initiative. But African leaders like Kenya's William Ruto have praised these collaborations for creating jobs and boosting local economies. 💼
Digital Silk Road Twist
China's recent investments in Africa's tech sector—including 5G networks and AI hubs—are rewriting the development playbook. 'This isn't about extracting resources,' Prof. He emphasized. 'It's about building capacity for the digital age.' 📱
While challenges remain, 79% of Africans surveyed by Afrobarometer in 2022 viewed China's influence as positive. As one Ghanaian tech entrepreneur put it: 'We're tired of old colonial labels. Let’s talk about who’s actually building hospitals.' 🏥
