Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo and China’s President Xi Jinping at the 2018 summit in Beijing. EPA-EFE/Andy Wong (Pool)

Ties between African countries and China are complex. Understanding this matters

Not enough credit is given to the agency African governments have in their dealings with China.
Chinese President Xi Jinping reviews the guard of honour on a state visit to Zimbabwe. Reuters/Philimon Bulawayo

Why the focus on China’s role in Mugabe’s fall missed the bigger picture

A narrow interest in whether Beijing actively pushed for Mugabe’s fall is based on the assumption that the China-Africa relationship is an isolated phenomenon.
China’s proposed one belt, one road route map Shutterstock

Where Africa fits into China’s massive Belt and Road Initiative

China has launched a quietly aggressive global trade, development and infrastructure initiative based on the ancient Silk Road model. But is Africa welcome on the journey to renewed prosperity?
South Africa’s opinion of its role in Africa is at odds with perceptions on the continent. Shutterstock

It’s time South Africa tuned into Africa’s views about its role on the continent

South Africa considers itself to be playing a key role in promoting the ‘African Agenda’ in continental and world affairs. But perceptions in the rest of Africa tell a different story.

Contact Chris for

  • General
  • Media request
  • Speaking request
  • Consulting / Advising
  • Research collaboration
  • Research supervision