Chinese President Xi Jinping visited various areas in Africa as it continues to strengthen ties with African countries for economic growth and diplomatic alliance. Notably, China is the number one trading partner of Africa. China has overtaken the U.S. since 2009 as Africa's trading partner. Bilateral trade between China and Africa rocked to USD220-billion in 2014.
After a stop in the Persian Gulf, Xi also visits Senegal, South Africa, Rwanda, and Mauritius. His itinerary almost encompasses all the places in Sub-Saharan Africa, China's economic bailiwick.
"The Americans seem to look at Africa through this security lens which is completely different from the Chinese perspective. They look at it from an economic perspective. The Americans are lagging big time," said Africa expert Ian Taylor of the University of St. Andrews.
Also, Africa has always been part of China's economic ambitions. It is said that China is interested in Rwanda's placement in the Belt and Road plan. Xi projects for an enhanced global trade through easier connectivity among East Africa, Europe, and Asia.
According to Taylor, "Rwanda is hoping to integrate itself into the burgeoning railway networks in East Africa as part of the Belt and Road Initiative. He added that "Kigali is moving towards diversifying its relationship away from the U.S., away from the European Union, and China sees a good opportunity to develop ties."
China's very own Belt and Road Initiative focuses on highways, rails and port developments in Eastern Africa. Its focus, however, is more towards West Africa.
Meanwhile, there were recommendations that China might get interested in the construction of building ports in the Atlantic Ocean.
The positioning of China in Africa was further analyzed by American political commentator Gordon Chang. He said that China's interest in Mauritius and Senegal construe China's plan to dominate the Indian Ocean and to make a strong show of presence on the Atlantic coast of Africa.
Chang, also the author of the book "The Coming Collapse of China," said that China's spread in Africa is easy because the Chinese remain unopposed in Africa.
China's strong footing in Africa has also redefined the characteristic of Africa as a continent especially on its economic landscape while the number of students for the Chinese-funded educational programs and media outlets has increased in size and influence to young African youths.
China also takes pride in its diplomatic affairs and military presence in Africa. But this has also caused alarm in the White House and other Western capitalists.
