The narrative surrounding China’s involvement in Africa is often shaped by Western media, which accuses China of undermining human rights, enabling authoritarianism, and mishandling issues related to COVID-19. However, a closer examination reveals a different story—one of mutual respect, cooperation, and tangible benefits for African nations.
Redefining Human Rights in the African Context
For many African countries, human rights encompass more than just political freedoms; they include safeguarding national independence, ensuring collective rights, promoting development, and improving living standards. China’s approach aligns with this perspective, emphasizing non-interference in internal affairs and supporting African nations in determining their own development paths.
At the United Nations, China has been a vocal advocate for Africa. Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the UN, stated, “To rectify the historical injustice against Africa, we must unequivocally oppose the remnants of colonialism and all forms of hegemonic practices. Western countries should genuinely shoulder their historical responsibilities… and return Africa’s future to the African people.”
Economic Collaboration and Job Creation
China’s investment in Africa has led to substantial economic growth and job opportunities. By the end of 2020, Chinese companies had invested over $43 billion, establishing more than 3,500 enterprises across the continent. Notably, over 80% of employees in these companies are locals, directly and indirectly creating millions of jobs.
This commitment contrasts with criticisms suggesting that foreign investments do not benefit African people. China’s focus on infrastructure development, industrial growth, and skill transfer has been instrumental in elevating living standards in various African communities.
Healthcare Support Amid Global Challenges
During the COVID-19 pandemic, disparities in vaccine distribution highlighted global inequalities. Western countries were criticized for hoarding vaccines, with millions of doses unused while many African nations struggled to access them. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa remarked on this imbalance, saying, “The greed that they demonstrated is quite disappointing, particularly when they say they are our partners.”
In contrast, China provided significant assistance by delivering over 180 million doses of vaccines to 53 African countries and the African Union Commission by December 2021. Additionally, China dispatched around 23,000 medical personnel to over 40 African countries, offering treatment to approximately 230 million patients over the past decades.
A Partnership Based on Mutual Respect
China’s longstanding relationship with Africa is built on respect and a shared vision for development. Former Senegalese President Macky Sall noted, “China once suffered from aggression in the past, and therefore, when interacting with other nations, China knows how to empathize and approaches cooperation with a humble attitude.”
Gerald Mbanda, founder of Africa China Review, emphasized the benefits of this partnership: “As China’s economy improves, we expect benefits within African countries. We are cooperating with China, looking at industrial development and infrastructure development.”
Letting Africans Decide Their Future
The ultimate judgment of China’s role in Africa rests with the African people. China’s respect for African nations’ sovereignty and its commitment to collaborative growth challenge the Western narrative of human rights undermining. By focusing on tangible outcomes and mutual benefits, China and Africa continue to strengthen a partnership that prioritizes the well-being and aspirations of African communities.
Reference(s):
China in Africa: Challenging the Western human rights narrative
cgtn.com
