Blogging on a 'hot topic'

Prof Deborah Bräutigam’s blog titled 'China in Africa: The Real Story' follows on from her recently released, and highly acclaimed book, 'The Dragon’s Gift'. As the blog’s sub-line suggests the content investigates “the myths and realities of Chinese aid and economic engagement in Africa” and also continues debates presented in her book, specifically addressing the generalisations present within the media relating to China’s activities in Africa, debunking myths surrounding especially Chinese aid to Africa amongst others, and probing into issues that have become more topical in recent times.

The oversimplification of China’s various engagements with Africa becomes all the more clear when one looks into the details provided in media articles and journalist commentaries on the subject. This does not bode well in establishing an objective and accurate assessment of Sino-Africa relations yet the hunger for information on the topic, whether from journalists, researchers or policy makers alike has likely fuelled this development over time. This becomes even more significant as it is largely information that is not easily obtained, forthcoming through formal channels, or accurately verifiable to begin with. Thus it is the publically available publications and reports that play a pivotal role in the global dialogue on and perceptions toward Sino-Africa relations. This is where Prof Bräutigam’s blog seems to fill an important void- the investigation of common assumptions or (mis)representations of China in Africa.

With her well established record on research in the field of Sino-Africa relations, spanning three decades, Prof Bräutigam’s comments on topical issues with authority and vigour. Having commenced with research into this relationship long before the popular attention it now receives, there are few commentators on this subject that can provide this kind of expert knowledge. Not that the blog takes on a clinical approach- actually the opposite- Prof Bräutigam establishes a casual and at times humorous take on the plethora of information available on China-Africa to set the scene for a candid conversation amongst followers on relevant topics and issues at hand.

Yet the review of information made available, whether it be China’s aid figures to Africa- a much touted aspect of global media reports on China in Africa, or thoughts on commentaries released on the topic in general, Prof Bräutigam takes a rather balanced approach in her response to reports from the West, Africa and China. A factual assessment is provided on topics that most China-Africa scholars and commentators continue to grapple with. And with such a vast knowledge, passion and experience in undertaking research on this topic Prof Bräutigam provides a rather refreshing assessment- separating fact from fiction to the best of her ability, yet opening up the issues at hand to debate amongst blog followers. Hopefully more information will also be revealed from followers on other topical issues such as perceptions of the Chinese diaspora in Africa, the distinction between Chinese private and state driven activities in Africa, the issue of Chinese farms in Africa and the use of Chinese labour.

The blog does however provide a greater message and that is the need for accurate assessments, and greater objectivity in the use of data, and sourcing of information, as well as the use of second hand data. Prof Bräutigam explains a trail of misinformation and its rapid ascent to becoming an established “fact”. As the debate surrounding the possible effects and long term implications of China in Africa easily becomes divided into two opposing camps, one supporting the notion of China becoming a new coloniser, and the other suggesting China as an alternative partner to development on the continent, “facts” related to Sino-Africa relations can be misused and misrepresented to prove a point. Instead the need for more thoughtful investigation is suggested through this blog- an exercise that Prof Bräutigam shows can be enjoyable and enlightening. It is hoped that more followers will join in on this important conversation.

The blog is accessible here

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* Hayley Herman is programme officer based with Fahamu’s China/Emerging Powers in Africa Programme.
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