The Power Imbalance of Chinese Investments in Africa

As the race intensifies to secure metals for the global energy transition, African countries, home to over 30% of the world’s mineral resources, are drawing increased attention. Chinese mineral mining operations in countries like Democratic Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Africa, Ghana, and Guinea are facing intense scrutiny over their environmental and human rights impacts. At the same time, China’s continued financing of off-grid coal-fired plants in these countries is further complicating the continent’s shift to clean energy. Chinese investments are an important aspect of Africa’s regional economic aspirations. But to realize the economic promises of these investments requires environmental and social safeguards that ensure benefits for local communities.