China’s Rising Influence in Africa: If China Did It…

By Dr Masimba Mavaza

During the meeting held on 3 September 2024 in Beijing, President Emmerson Mnangagwa conveyed to President Xi Jinping of China Zimbabwe’s readiness to enhance bilateral cooperation in the realms of governance and party administration. This engagement occurred as President Mnangagwa was on a State Visit in anticipation of his participation in the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). He emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations in sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, mining, and the development of new energy.

The relationship between governance and economic development is significant. Some may argue about the causality—whether effective governance leads to economic progress or if economic advancement fosters improved governance. However, most experts agree that robust governance and effective administration are essential for fostering an environment that supports sustained economic growth.

It is therefore not surprising that President Mnangagwa expressed a keen interest in enhancing exchanges with China regarding governance practices, especially given China’s success in lifting 800 million individuals out of poverty in recent decades. It is important to note that such achievements cannot simply be replicated; each nation possesses unique characteristics and must consider its specific historical and contemporary contexts in development planning.

Consequently, during his visit to China, President Mnangagwa remarked to the China Media Group that, “As we come to China, which has rapidly developed and has modernised its economy, we gain insights into how they have navigated their journey; and the challenges we face, some have been addressed here. Thus, it is advantageous for us to bypass the challenges that have already been resolved.”

It is not uncommon for individuals to seek to replicate successful practices observed in other regions. However, it is essential to recognize that, ultimately, the objective remains to cultivate a China that embodies its unique cultural identity and characteristics. As articulated, the aim is to ensure that as we advance our transformation and modernization, we do so comprehensively and with precision, drawing lessons from those who have successfully navigated similar challenges.

In this context, it would be beneficial for Zimbabwe’s policymakers to familiarize themselves with the fourth volume of President Xi’s “The Governance of China,” released in 2023. This publication details how China has adeptly executed macroeconomic control while making counter-cyclical adjustments in response to emerging challenges, all while adhering to its overarching development goals. A reviewer has noted that the book synthesizes the expertise, knowledge, and experience necessary for effective leadership, governance, and economic management during turbulent periods.

Furthermore, this work aims to facilitate skill exchange and governance experiences between African leaders and their Chinese counterparts. For Zimbabwe, key insights can be gleaned from understanding how a nation with a population exceeding one billion operates under a streamlined and effective political bureaucracy.

The text provides valuable guidance on the relationship between the ruling party and the government, emphasizes a strict stance against corruption, highlights state-led capitalism exemplified by the active role of public enterprises and parastatals, and underscores the importance of fostering an environment conducive to private sector growth. Notably, it is also worth observing how China is nurturing a private sector that recognizes the intrinsic connection between its interests and the national interest. Zimbabwe would benefit from adopting systems that encourage innovation across both public and private sectors, thereby driving the development of new and efficient products and services.

Human capital represents the most significant asset for any nation. Prioritizing investments in education, healthcare, and food security lays the foundation for substantial and sustainable national development. These elements underscore the importance of establishing robust governance and administrative frameworks that endure across generations. According to Wang Fen in “China’s Age of Abundance: Origins, Ascendance, and Aftermath,” China’s achievements can be attributed to a notable level of political stability and a cohesive economic development strategy. This leads to the rhetorical colloquial question: “If China did it, why can’t we also did it?”