Africa and China’s growing partnership is significantly impacting global development, with China emerging as Africa’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years. This cooperation, strengthened through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), is driving economic transformation, infrastructure development, and industrialization across the continent. Stephan Ndegwa assessed the global impact of China-Africa relations for Kenyan news portal the Star.
Expanding Economic and Trade Relations
China has invested heavily in Africa’s infrastructure over the past 25 years, building and upgrading more than 100,000 kilometers of roads and 10,000 kilometers of railways. These projects are increasing connectivity, boosting trade, and creating new economic opportunities.
China-Africa trade is projected to exceed $282 billion in 2022, with Africa’s exports to China increasing steadily. China’s zero-tax policy on 100% of customs duty items further expands Africa’s access to Chinese markets, benefiting businesses and entrepreneurs. In addition, Chinese-made industrial parks, such as Ethiopia’s Eastern Industrial Park and Egypt’s Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone, are creating manufacturing hubs that boost Africa’s manufacturing capacity and global competitiveness.
Agriculture and Food Security, Job Creation and Industrialization
China’s expertise in agriculture is helping Africa achieve food security and sustainability. The introduction of hybrid rice technology has significantly increased crop yields and farmer incomes in several African countries. Initiatives such as the China-Africa Agricultural Development and Poverty Alleviation Program are providing smallholder farmers with modern farming techniques, mechanization and irrigation solutions, improving resilience to climate change.
Chinese investment is supporting sustainable employment and skills development, creating more than 1.1 million jobs for Africans in the past three years alone. China’s “Ten Partnership Actions” framework is accelerating Africa’s industrialization, while infrastructure projects and digital innovation, such as the Digital Silk Road initiative, position Africa as a future leader in the global digital economy.
Strengthening Africa’s Global Influence
Beyond economic growth, China is a strong advocate for Africa’s growing role in global governance. It supports Africa’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council and fairer trade policies in international organizations. The upcoming G20 summit in Africa, which China supports, is a major milestone in raising the continent’s voice on the world stage.
China-Africa relations are rooted in mutual respect, shared development goals, and a commitment to prosperity. Through investments in infrastructure, technology, trade, and education, both regions are promoting self-sufficiency and sustainable growth. Scholarship programs, vocational training, and cultural exchanges are further strengthening ties, ensuring long-term knowledge transfer and innovation.
As China and Africa continue to deepen their partnership, their collaboration stands as a powerful example of how international cooperation can drive economic progress and global stability. The future looks promising as both sides work together toward a more inclusive and equitable world order.