China in Africa

The critical phrase in Firoze Manji's essay ‘African Perspectives on China in Africa’ (http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/features/38873)
as far as I am concerned is 'uncritical acceptance or mere rejectionism'.

As an African at home, I am aware of prejudices against Chinese products. I am also aware of some substandard practices which dominate production of these products. Their sales outlets are everywhere in Nigeria. Imitation goods are common. As a result, we have to be circumspect. The inspectorate arms of government bureaucracies must be strengthened in order to perform their oversight functions.

The Chinese manufacturers themselves should realise the enormity of the tasks ahead. Africa needs genuine business partnerships as there is a huge market for goods to be sold. But the whole purpose would be defeated if their goods turn out to be inferior. Business ethics all over the world need to be governed by trust and commitment to excellence.

African Heads of State ought to welcome the investment opportunities provided by the Chinese, but they have an obligation to ensure that the people get the best deals. The rail network the Chinese want to build linking Lagos with Kano through Abuja is a welcome development in this direction.

If the African continent has been disappointed by the West, the Chinese should remember history and know that rejectionism would follow once the wrong signals or actions are given. Thanks for a stimulating essay.