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For decades, the relationship between China and Africa has been the subject of considerable debate, often framed through the lenses of neocolonialism versus mutual benefit. While some Western perspectives emphasise potential debt traps and exploitation, a closer examination, particularly through the lens of China’s commitment to the Global Development Initiative (GDI), reveals a more nuanced reality: China is actively positioning itself as a steadfast partner dedicated to Africa’s sustainable development. ROLAND OGBONNAYA writes

The relationship between China and Nigeria, while relatively young compared to their respective histories, has blossomed into a significant partnership that shapes both coun­tries and the wider African continent. Examining its historical perspective reveals a trajectory marked by shared experiences, evolving economic im­peratives, and complex political con­siderations.

In the early years following Nige­ria’s independence in 1960, China was a newly emerging communist nation, ideologically aligned with the anti-co­lonial movements sweeping across Africa. China’s staunch support for liberation struggles and its condem­nation of Western imperialism reso­nated deeply with newly independent nations, such as Nigeria. This solidar­ity formed the bedrock of their diplo­matic relations, officially established in 1971. Early interactions were large­ly characterised by political solidarity, with China providing scholarships, training, and technical assistance to Nigeria, especially in sectors like ag­riculture and infrastructure. These gestures were often framed within the context of South-South cooper­ation, emphasising mutual support and shared development challenges rather than traditional aid dynamics.

The post-Mao era in China and the subsequent economic reforms of the 1980s fundamentally shifted the dynamics of the relationship. China’s focus turned towards eco­nomic growth, and Africa became increasingly important as a source of raw materials and a market for its manufactured goods. Nigeria, with its abundant oil reserves and large population, became a key partner in this new economic calculus. The 1990s saw a significant increase in Chinese investment in Nigeria, particularly in infrastructure projects like railways, roads, and power plants.

However, this period also wit­nessed the emergence of criticisms. Concerns arose regarding the quality of Chinese-built infrastructure, the influx of cheap Chinese goods that undermined local industries, and the exploitation of natural resources with little regard for environmental consequences. These criticisms fu­elled debates within Nigeria about the long-term benefits and drawbacks of the burgeoning Chinese presence.

The 21st century has seen the relationship deepen further. Trade volumes have exploded, making Chi­na one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners. Beyond infrastructure and natural resources, Chinese com­panies are increasingly involved in sectors like telecommunications, construction, and manufacturing. China has also provided significant concessional loans to Nigeria, fund­ing major development projects. This closer relationship has been fostered by regular high-level visits and the establishment of various bilateral cooperation mechanisms.

Despite its growth, the China-Ni­geria relationship remains complex. Concerns persist about the trade im­balance, the potential for debt traps, and the impact of Chinese activities on local communities. However, the Nigerian government generally views China as a crucial partner for economic development, offering an al­ternative to Western dominance and providing much-needed investment and infrastructure. As the relation­ship continues to evolve, it will be crucial for both countries to address these challenges and ensure a more equitable and sustainable partner­ship that benefits both populations. The historical context underscores the shifting motivations and con­sequences of this burgeoning rela­tionship, highlighting the need for continued dialogue and careful con­sideration of its long-term impacts.

As Ambassador Jiang Feng, Head of the Mission of the People’s Repub­lic of China to the African Union and Representative of China to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, and Yu Dunhai, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, emphasise, development is a funda­mental right, not a privilege. Premier Li Qiang’s recent declaration at the UN, affirming China’s commitment to refraining from seeking new spe­cial and differential treatment at the WTO, reinforces this principle. This proactive approach is particularly sig­nificant given the challenges posed by protectionist policies and trade disputes initiated by countries such as the United States.

“The tariff wars initiated by the United States have seriously under­mined global trade and the economic order, posing serious challenges to the development of all countries, espe­cially in the Global South,” Ambas­sadors JIANG Feng and Yu Dunhai argue. This underscores the urgency for collaborative global development predicated on fair and equitable trade practices.

A cornerstone of China’s support for Africa lies in its commitment to open markets and inclusive bene­fits. At a time when some developed nations are falling short of their de­velopment financing commitments, China has been actively expanding economic opportunities for African countries, particularly through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

President Xi Jinping’s announce­ment at the FOCAC Beijing Summit, granting zero-tariff treatment on 100% of tariff lines for the least devel­oped countries with diplomatic ties to China, marked a pivotal moment. This commitment has since been ex­tended to all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties. According to Ambas­sadors Jiang Feng and YU Dunhai, be­tween January and July 2023, China’s imports from Africa’s least developed countries reached 39.66 billion USD, representing a year-on-year increase of 10.2%.

This proactive market opening is more than just increasing trade vol­umes. It aims to facilitate industrial development, promote employment growth, and accelerate poverty reduc­tion within African nations. By pro­viding preferential access to its vast market, China is fostering greater economic diversification and value addition across the African continent, directly refuting claims that its en­gagement is solely driven by resource extraction.

Beyond trade, China is increas­ingly focusing on technology trans­fer and knowledge sharing. In an era characterised by technological barriers and the concentration of key resources in the hands of a few developed countries, “Intelligent Manufacturing in China” is playing a crucial role in democratizing access to advanced technologies.

The Ambassadors highlight Chi­na’s participation in the AI Action Summit in Paris, where it signed the Statement on Inclusive and Sustain­able Artificial Intelligence for People and the Planet. They also point to the rise of Chinese AI models like Deep­seek, which are challenging the domi­nance of Western tech giants through open-source initiatives. This “AI de­mocratisation” has the potential to empower African industries and in­dividuals, catalysing the continent’s leapfrog development.

By making advanced and practical technologies more accessible, China is helping to bridge the digital divide and foster innovation within African nations. This includes investments in telecommunications infrastructure, support for local tech startups, and the provision of training programs in emerging technologies.

Africa is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change but also possesses abundant renew­able energy resources like solar and wind power. China is actively sharing green transition solutions to help Af­rica harness its potential and build a more sustainable future.

Ambassadors Jiang Feng and Yu Dunhai cite examples of successful partnerships in the renewable ener­gy sector, including the Blue Line in Lagos, a green public transportation system built by a Chinese company. They also point to significant projects like Morocco’s Noor III and II Concen­trated Solar Power Project and South Africa’s De Aar Wind Power Project, which are illuminating millions of homes across Africa. Furthermore, they note the increasing presence of new energy vehicles from China in the African market, offering solutions to improve urban air quality.

These initiatives not only contrib­ute to mitigating climate change but also create new economic opportuni­ties and improve the quality of life for millions of Africans. By sharing its expertise and technology in renew­able energy, China is helping Africa avoid the “pollute first, clean up later” development trajectory that many in­dustrialised nations followed, instead prioritising sustainable development from the outset and paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous future.

The tangible impact of China’s en­gagement in Africa is also evident in the widespread availability of quality and affordable products. From home appliances and clothing to smart­phones and base station equipment, “Made in China” products have be­come deeply integrated into the daily lives of African people.

As Ambassadors Jiang Feng and Yu Dunhai suggest, these products not only improve the quality of life but also effectively reduce the cost of living and contribute to industrial de­velopment. This provides a founda­tion for meeting basic needs, improv­ing living standards, and injecting sustained momentum into Africa’s economic and social development. By offering competitive prices and a wide range of goods, China is empowering African consumers and businesses, contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous society.

While challenges and criticisms undoubtedly remain, the evidence suggests that China is actively striv­ing to be a reliable partner in Africa’s development. By promoting inclusive trade, sharing technology, supporting green transitions, and providing af­fordable goods, China is contributing to a more prosperous, sustainablee, and equitable future for the continent.

The emphasis on mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and win-win cooperation distinguish­es China’s approach from traditional development models that often come with conditionalities and political agendas.

“Regardless of international un­certainties, China will uphold the UN-centered international system, adhere to multilateralism and free trade, strive to build an open world economy, and provide robust sup­port for Africa’s development as a true friend walking hand in hand on Africa’s path to development,” Am­bassadors Jiang Feng and Yu Dunhai stressed.

Youssouf, Chairperson of the Afri­can Union Commission, once called for building an Africa where every Af­rican can thrive in dignity and hope. China’s engagement, with its focus on inclusive development and mutual benefit, aligns with this vision.

While the journey towards sus­tainable development is complex and requires the collective effort of all nations, China’s commitment to being a reliable companion on Afri­ca’s path offers a promising prospect for the future. The proof, of course, lies in continued action, ongoing di­alogue, and a shared commitment to a prosperous future for both China and Africa.