The Impact of Chinese Influence Towards the Socio-economic Developments of African States; Case Study of Kenya. (2003 - 2018)

Abstract

In the recent years, China has risen to become the largest economy by some measures besides being the most populous country on earth and this has come with both threats and opportunities for African continent. This study dissects this topic on socio-economic impacts of Sino-Africa relations case study of Kenya since 2003 to 2018, in order to debunk myths surrounding the nexus. According to the objectives, the study will examine Chinese interests in Africa including resources and vast market for finished goods. Secondly, the study will examine the role and impact of Chinese towards Africa‟s socio-economic development such as infrastructural development, employment and scholarships opportunities as well as the negative ones such as promoting corruption. The study also explores the challenges experienced in Kenya-China socio-economic development strategy. Case study research technique was used in the study while interviews and questionnaires were the tools mainly employed to collect primary data. Study Findings concluded that the Chinese has got major interest in the economy, diplomacy, security, and politics in Africa, precisely Kenya, significantly influenced socio-economic development. Apart from that, it was also found that the role that China assumed especially in infrastructural development and as a lender helped in spurring economic growth and development in Kenya. However, there were some challenges that revolved around the implementation of the Sino-Kenya relations strategy, and these include killing of the local infant industries, importation of counterfeit goods, and unemployment. The conclusion was that there was notable impact of the influence of Chinese towards socio-economic development in Kenya and African region as a whole. However, regulatory policies should be put in place to curb the importation of counterfeit goods and protect the infant industries. Apart from that, it was also recommended that priority should be given to the locals in the allocation of the available employment opportunities within the economy, with the Chinese being awarded to technical areas whose experts are rare to find in Kenya.