Apr 04, 2014

Could China’s slowing growth rattle African economies and, in turn, impact American and European markets? As Robert Rotberg explains, African nations depend upon Chinese investment for continued growth and stability. However, with the United States and European Union still suffering from an economic downturn, China’s slowdown could have a domino effect that exerts further pressure on Africa.

Mar 15, 2014

Last year, trade between China and Africa hit a record high of $200 billion with a 44% increase in Chinese direct investment to the continent. While United States trade with the continent pales in comparison, amounting to less than $100 billion in trade annually, Sino-African trade is expected to increase as the Chinese economy and Africa’s development become further intertwined.

Feb 15, 2014

The recent agreement to declare the yuan a legal currency in Zimbabwe and for the construction of Chinese solar plants in the country has been viewed with skepticism by many. However, Robert Rotberg explains why China’s focus on the embattled country is beneficial for Sub-Saharan Africa and the global economy.

Jan 24, 2014

The international community has praised China’s recent destruction of confiscated ivory as an important step towards reducing poaching in Africa. Robert Rotberg writes that China’s actions can spur further international cooperation and become a leader in anti-poaching initiatives.

Nov 26, 2013

Africa is poised to see an uptick in infrastructure construction following a pledge by China’s Export-Import Bank to invest as much as $1 trillion in financing in the continent over the next decade. As Robert Rotberg explains, the commitment will strengthen China’s partnerships with African nations while developing critical infrastructure in the region.

Nov 20, 2013

Sixteen years after China closed its embassy in São Tomé and Principle, two tiny African islands located in a resource rich area off of the Atlantic Coast of Gabon. Now China hopes to renew relations by bringing promise of modern infrastructure to the island in hope of returning with a stake in potential oil discovery.

Nov 02, 2013

After nearly $1.5 million worth of elephant tusks were seized by customs agents in Hong Kong, international attention has turned to the illegal ivory and rhino horn trade in Africa – fuelled by Chinese demand.

Oct 10, 2013

With trade between China and Africa worth nearly $166 billion last year, it is no wonder investments from and exports to China are at an all time high. However, as South African President Jacob Zuma subtly noted last month in Beijing at the tri-annual China-Africa Forum, Africa desperately needs a transfer of technology from China too.

Sep 06, 2013

Following China and Kenya’s $5 billion trade deal, Robert I. Rotberg explores how the investment moves beyond traditional infrastructure development and increases Chinese soft power abroad with a focus on halting the illegal ivory trade.

Jul 23, 2013

President Obama has refused to be intimidated by China’s influence in Sub-Saharan Africa, visiting the same number of African nations in June and July as his Chinese counterpart, President Xi Jinping, visited in March. As the Obama administration attempts to portray the continent as an area for investment, Robert Rotberg explains the competing interests in the region.