China's Urban Development in Africa: A Critical Examination of Elite-Driven Infrastructure Projects
Original framing: “China is helping build Africa’s cities, but its approach sidelines local urban planners and residents” — The Conversation - Global
The relationship between Africa and China is shaped by a long history of colonialism and imperialism. This historical context has created power imbalances that are perpetuated by China's top-down approach to urban development in Africa. For example, the Scramble for Africa in the late 19th century led to the exploitation of African resources and the displacement of local communities.
China's top-down approach to urban development in Africa has perpetuated power imbalances and neglected the needs and perspectives of African residents and urban planners.
However, community-led initiatives in African cities have successfully implemented sustainable and equitable development projects that benefit local residents and marginalized groups. To promote more sustainable and equitable development in African cities, China should adopt a more community-led approach to urban development, prioritizing the needs and perspectives of African residents and urban planners. This requires a fundamental shift in China's approach to urban development in Africa, from a top-down model to a more inclusive and equitable model that prioritizes community-level development and sustainability.