The impact of china on social and economic development in Sub-saharan Africa: The case study of Kenya

Abstract

The emergence of China as a global economic power introduces new opportunities and challenges to the developing world. China’s fast economic advance has continued to have an impact on Africa socially and economically. Generally, this study is about the impact of China on social and economic development in sub-Saharan Africa and examines the social and economic role of China in Kenya and the rest of Africa. The study set out with two hypotheses namely; there is a significant impact of Chinese policies on social and economic development in Sub-Saharan Africa and secondly, Chinese policies have an influence on Africa development and political agenda. The study depends largely on secondary data. The study found out that the social dimensions in the Chinese presence in Kenya include aid and debt relief, education and telecommunications while the economic dimensions include trade, investments, exploration and infrastructure development. Chinese development aid helps to finance infrastructure projects, hydropower stations, stadia, hospitals and schools. This study concludes that Bilateral economic and trade relations have soared and both sides have made rapid headway in cooperation in the areas of electric power, communications, investment and project contracts and have achieved and maintained close consultations and cooperation in international affairs. Lastly the study has given recommendations for improving the economic and social relationship between Kenya and rest of Africa and China as follows: China needs to build a stronger social basis for Sino-African relations; China should make concrete contributions to African peace and security; and, China must pave the way for future symmetrical interdependence between China and Africa.