As the world transitions from decades of Western dominance toward a more multipolar order, African scholars say the China-Africa partnership is emerging as a key force reshaping global politics, trade and governance.
They argue that the relationship, having solidified over the past 70 years since China established diplomatic relations with Africa starting with Egypt, has evolved far beyond trade and infrastructure to include industrialization, green development, digital innovation, critical minerals and reforms to global governance, positioning both sides to play a greater role in shaping the 21st-century global economy.
Humphrey Moshi, a professor of economics and founding director of the Centre for Chinese Studies at the University of Dar es Salaam, said the rise of BRICS+ reflects the emergence of a more equitable multipolar world.
"Given the prominent position of China in such platforms of Global South, Africa is poised to gain tremendously because its voice is being heard and listened to, contrary to the post-Cold War era of unilateral dominance," he said.
Moshi said China is currently Africa's largest trading partner, while Africa has emerged as one of the leading destinations for Chinese foreign direct investment.
