China’s Approach to Development in Africa: A Case Study of Kenya’s Standard Gauge Railway

Abstract

China has become a major donor to African states over the past twenty years, but its approach to development has become a source of debate among African opinion leaders and outside experts. Some opinion leaders believe China is not supporting good governance in its development aid, while others disagree, and believe China is a valuable partner for Africa, especially in infrastructure development.1 Using a case study of Kenya’s Standard Gauge Railway, this paper examines this debate, focusing on China’s impact on procurement, environmental issues, and labor relations in Kenya