David, I always value reading your thoughtful and highly researched pieces. That said, although I value positive relations with people around the world, inclusive of Chinese people, I would like to share a little bit about their impact on the continent of Africa.
You may know that I grew up in Kenya. I still have family there. What we have seen of Chinese influence in Kenya has been very troubling. Their practices are not dissimilar to the colonial practices of the west. Although, they have offered robust support in building up infrastructure, it has come at a very high cost to the African people. Predatory lending practices prevail, and often times, African people have experienced feeling disrespected.
I am keenly aware there are many Chinese people who would never engage in predatory or disrespectful practices. However, of those engaged in the infrastructure development and the corporations acting in these countries, there are some very disturbing practices that are pervasive.
One book that gives a view behind the scenes of these types of practices is the book listed below. Although, the book is written in the context of the Democratic Republic of Congo, addressing issues with unethical acquisition of minerals, many of the same themes resonate with people in other African countries.
If you have not had the opportunity to read it, you might find it both interesting and informative. It may not change your larger perspective, but may perhaps give you a more nuanced view.
Thank you for allowing me to read your writing. Below is the title of the book that I am referencing:
“Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers Our Lives.”
David, I always value reading your thoughtful and highly researched pieces. That said, although I value positive relations with people around the world, inclusive of Chinese people, I would like to share a little bit about their impact on the continent of Africa.
You may know that I grew up in Kenya. I still have family there. What we have seen of Chinese influence in Kenya has been very troubling. Their practices are not dissimilar to the colonial practices of the west. Although, they have offered robust support in building up infrastructure, it has come at a very high cost to the African people. Predatory lending practices prevail, and often times, African people have experienced feeling disrespected.
I am keenly aware there are many Chinese people who would never engage in predatory or disrespectful practices. However, of those engaged in the infrastructure development and the corporations acting in these countries, there are some very disturbing practices that are pervasive.
One book that gives a view behind the scenes of these types of practices is the book listed below. Although, the book is written in the context of the Democratic Republic of Congo, addressing issues with unethical acquisition of minerals, many of the same themes resonate with people in other African countries.
If you have not had the opportunity to read it, you might find it both interesting and informative. It may not change your larger perspective, but may perhaps give you a more nuanced view.
Thank you for allowing me to read your writing. Below is the title of the book that I am referencing:
“Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers Our Lives.”