Will African nations choose their own development paths, moving away from former colonial powers? How should we interpret China’s efforts to increase its presence in Africa? Does it pose a threat to African populations or is it an opportunity for change?
These are among the questions of a “debate café” held in Maastricht on 25 February 2014. The debate features panel members from UNU-MERIT, including Profs. Adam Szirmai and Wim Naudé, as well as PhD Fellow Tobias Broich.
Background
Africa’s economy is growing rapidly. According to the African Development Bank, one-third of Africa’s countries have GDP growth rates of more than 6 per cent. Many new Chinese companies are investing in Africa, improving the infrastructure, but also arguably exploiting the resources.
Western aid agencies and NGOs still play an important role, but the question is whether the idea of foreign aid is still a valid concept or more of a hindrance for the development of Africa (economically or otherwise). See the Studium Generale website for more details.
MEDIA CREDITS
Flickr / H.Dowd