Date of Award

4-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Department

Political Science

First Advisor

Patrick Donnay

Abstract

China’s reputation transitioned from political isolation throughout the twentieth century to international influence in the twenty-first century. We see this in the continent of Africa, especially, where multiple countries experience political and economic hardships. Today, China invests in African countries to alleviate these hardships and strengthen foreign relations. Some scholars contend that much of China’s approach to foreign direct investment (FDI) in Africa stems from China’s domestic interests, while other scholars contend it is more about relationship-building. Taking note that China does both, I ask which aspect to Sino-African relations primarily motivates Chinese lending in Africa. To analyze this question, I utilize data from the China-Africa Research Initiative (CARI) at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies by analyzing levels of Chinese lending within all recipient sectors in the continent. Results suggest economic incentives playing a more significant role in Chinese lending than political motives or African countries’ governing capabilities. This study recommends other actors in the region be aware of these economic priorities from China when considering their own strategies towards Africa.

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