While there have recently been many bad developments in Africa, one that may hold some promise is the continuing growth of development between the People’s Republic of China and Sub-Saharan Africa. In recent years, China has become Africa’s largest trading partner, and the Chinese government has offered many loans and aid programs to countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, culminating in a 60 billion dollar package in 2015 intended to fight poverty and strengthen local infrastructure. China has also invested in road and rail transport networks across the continent, a boon to the economy of many African countries. However, many have suggested that there may be a more cynical side to the Chinese investments in Africa. While transport networks and seaports have been strengthened with loans provided by the Chinese government, much of the exports from Sub-Saharan Africa to China have been in the form of raw materials, with mostly manufactured products shipped back. Many critics have called this a form of Imperialism, with China using their superior economic strength to bully smaller nations. Another criticism has been pointed at China’s involvement only in countries rich in valuable resources for their economy, such as Sudan, a war-torn country that China has sold vast amounts of arms to. While there are many legitimate concerns about the involvement of China in the African continent, it could prove to be a positive development in a region mired in poverty and conflict in recent years.
