Is Africa Changing Its Strategic Plan Agaisnt Chinas Belt and Road Initiative Because of Covid-19 Pandemic?

Abstract

Emmanuel I. Umeonyirioha

The unprecedented Covid-19 global pandemic, hit the world at a time many did not expect with impact not just on health of countries but also on the economy. Efforts to manage the impact of Covid-19 have led to stronger ties with some countries and strain on others. The study investigated the African Relations with China post Covid-19 owing to the growing concerns on Africa’s change of attitude due to the impact of covid-19 and health and economy. Using secondary data, the article assessed the ongoing relations between China and Africa, attitude of African governments to the Belt Road Initiative (BRI) and western perspectives on the BRI in Africa. Findings revealed that there are growing concerns on racist tendencies of China on Africans; while African governments try to maintain diplomatic relations with China, citizens have reservations. It also revealed that Africa and China relations may likely continue however there is a need to look inwards Post Covid-19 to diversify the economy. Findings also revealed that joint partnership with the West will stand a better chance for countries to benefit. Drawing from the findings it was recommended that, Chinese experts and policymakers should work to address African, American (and indeed, global) concerns about the standards and inclusiveness of BRI and be transparent in their dealings. The study also recommends that countries should remain openminded and flexible about BRI and engage with it where it serves their interests rather than viewing the entire initiative through the often simplistic lens of geopolitical competition post Covid-19.

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