China remains the only country that has liberated the most people from poverty in the history of the world. Over the past 40 years, China has lifted a staggering 800 million people out of poverty.
This was not easily achieved, but through the emphasis on China’s strengths and transformation of weaknesses into strengths by moving beyond its border, China has become the fastest growing economy in the world. In Africa, China has directed almost 400 billion dollars in investment since 2003.
China’s formative years
The Great Famine of 1959–61, triggered by miscalculated policies of the Great Leap Forward, left tens of millions dead and exposed the severe flaws in China’s early collectivisation and industrialisation model.
In the decades that followed, the country shifted towards pragmatic economic reforms under Deng Xiaoping, prioritising controlled industrial expansion, special economic zones, and technology absorption from abroad.
decision-making power while benefiting from Chinese investment and infrastructure support. Such collaborations have helped modernise mining operations, improve efficiency, and increase exports without undermining national control.
Overall, Chinese engagement in African mining is better understood as a mutually beneficial partnership that strengthens local industries rather than a strategy of resource dominance.
China’s engagement with Africa reflects a long-term commitment to shared development, shaped by its own transformative journey from poverty to global economic leadership. Far from the narratives that seek to undermine its intentions, China’s partnerships across infrastructure, trade, technology, and minerals demonstrate a model built on collaboration rather than control.
By investing nearly US$400 billion since 2003, China has supported African nations in expanding connectivity, strengthening industrial capacity, and accelerating job creation, while respecting local ownership structures—including in strategic sectors like mining.
Ultimately, China’s presence in Africa is best understood as a continuation of its developmental philosophy: using its experience and capabilities to foster mutual growth, modernisation, and a more inclusive global economic order.
Written By:
*Dr Iqbal Survé: Past chairman of the BRICS Business Council and co-chairman of the BRICS Media Forum and the BRNN
*Cole Jackson: Lead Associate at BRICS+ Consulting Group
Chinese & South America Specialist
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