This volume offers a critical evaluation of China’s programs and projects on the African continent, zooming in on: (a) whether China is preying on states and societies on the continent or, if indeed, she is a benevolent partner on the continent; (b) whether many of the projects are undeniably integral to the growth and development of the continent, or are mostly white elephant projects; (c) examine the cost-benefit of China’s involvement on the continent economic and political space; and (d) why Euro-America countries complain about the role and place of China in Africa? Bringing together mostly African scholars, the research underlines the key pros and cons of China and the Chinese involvement in the continent.

Sabella Ogbobode Abidde is Professor of Political Science and a member of the graduate faculty at Alabama State University Montgomery. He is the editor of two Book Series: African Governance, Development, and Leadership Series; and the Africa-East Asia International Relations Series. He is the editor/coeditor, most recently, of China and Taiwan in Africa: The Struggle for Diplomatic Recognition and Hegemony; Africa-China-Taiwan Relations, 1949–2020; and Human Trafficking in Africa: New Paradigms, New Perspectives.

“The Pros and Cons of China and the Chinese in Africa is distinct for at least two reasons: the first is that it is responding to the disaggregated reality and identity of what contemporary China is in Africa. When the ‘China in Africa’ discourse started gaining traction in academic literature, China and Africa were often presented as monolithic wholes. This has become increasingly outmoded as China manifests itself through China the state, and Chinese individuals coming to Africa out of individual volition and ambition rather than as representatives of the Chinese government. The second virtue of this important book is its focus on African perspectives. This is more meaningful than sensationalized exaggerations of China’s presence in Africa, laced with xenophobia and racism, a weapon that opportunistic African politicians have wielded and sought to package as African agency.” (Dr. Emmanuel Matambo, Centre for Africa-China Studies University of Johannesburg South Africa)

“The Pros and Cons of China and the Chinese in Africa, examines contemporary Sino-African relations, offering insights that move beyond the narrow interpretations often presented by Western voices. This approach addresses many unanswered questions surrounding this complex but important relationship.” (Professor Victor Adetula, Professor of International Relations and Development Studies, University of Jos, Nigeria)

“Notwithstanding their varied interests and viewpoints, The Pros and Cons of China and the Chinese in Africa, appropriately brings together several published and respected researchers from within and outside Africa. The volume offers an objective and scholarly exploration of China's relationship, motives, involvement, and influence on Africa and Africans. Abidde’s expertise in Africa-China relations adds credence to the volume. The work is well worth the read. It will definitely help to rouse discussions and embolden additional research.” (Professor Brenda I. Gill. Alabama State University)

“There is a believe that China has been a friendly partner to the African continent as manifested in many studies based on different perspectives on the reinvigoration of China and Africa relations since the 21st century. While adding to the body of extant studies on China-Africa relations, this volume, with contributions from seasoned scholars, offers a unique African perspective into the vexed question of whether the burgeoning relationship is mutually beneficial to Africa, or China is the new and different imperialist masquerading itself as a benevolent partner.” (Dr. Emmanuel E. Obuah, Dept. of History and Political Science, Tuskegee University, Alabama, USA)

“This edited volume provides a welcomed perspective on the intricate dynamics of the China-Africa relationship. The perspectives provided by the scholars of the African diaspora are balanced and grounded in sound international relations and political-economic theory, which helps the reader understand the salient dynamics and development of this long-standing geopolitical strategic relationship between the countries of Africa and the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The Pros and Cons of China and the Chinese in Africa is a fresh approach to the intricate dynamics of Sino-African Relations in the 21st century. This work will be helpful to students, researchers, policy practitioners, and foreign policy experts because the contributors provide a critical perspective of several African nations and their relations with China. This is important and welcomed because the scholarship provides an analysis that is apropos to the subject, based on academic knowledge and a sense of empiricism.” (Professor Alecia D. Hoffman, Alabama State University)