Africa's Shadow Rise: China and the Mirage of African Economic Development

Despite the global financial crisis, Africa continues to host some of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Africas Shadow Rise argues that this growth is unsustainable and has contributed to environmental destruction and worsening inequality. The book reveals how the shifting balance of global power is transforming Africas economy and politics and what this means for the future of development efforts in the region.

Format: Hardback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

For years, economists have heralded the "Africa Rising" narrative, highlighting the continent's impressive economic growth despite the global financial crisis. However, a new book titled "Africas Shadow Rise" challenges this perception, suggesting that Africa's apparent economic "rise" is largely a mirage, driven by developments elsewhere, particularly the expansion of China's economy. While many African countries have indeed experienced high rates of growth, much of this growth may prove unsustainable, contributing to environmental degradation and exacerbating inequality across the continent. Moreover, the emergence of new economic relationships has created a sense of dependency among African nations, as they become increasingly tied to the fortunes of China and other emerging powers.

Drawing on extensive fieldwork in southern Africa, "Africas Shadow Rise" delves into how the shifting balance of global power is reshaping Africa's economy and politics. The book uncovers the complex web of economic, political, and social factors that are driving this transformation, and its implications for the future of development efforts in the region.

One of the key findings of the book is that Africa's economic growth is heavily reliant on natural resources, particularly minerals and oil. While these resources have played a significant role in driving economic development, they have also contributed to environmental degradation and social unrest. The book argues that Africa needs to diversify its economy beyond natural resources to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience.

Another important aspect of "Africas Shadow Rise" is the role of China in Africa's development. While China has provided significant investment and infrastructure development, it has also been criticized for its exploitative practices and lack of respect for human rights. The book argues that African nations need to be more assertive in their negotiations with China and seek to establish more equitable and sustainable economic relationships.

The book also highlights the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation in Africa. The continent is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, with its vast landmass and diverse ecosystems making it susceptible to droughts, floods, and other natural disasters. The book argues that Africa needs to prioritize climate change mitigation and adaptation measures to ensure its long-term sustainability and prosperity.

In conclusion, "Africas Shadow Rise" is a thought-provoking and important book that challenges the prevailing narrative of Africa's economic "rise." The book provides a nuanced and comprehensive analysis of the continent's economic, political, and social challenges, and offers insights into the opportunities and risks that Africa faces in the coming decades. While the book acknowledges the positive aspects of Africa's development, it also highlights the need for a more sustainable and equitable approach to development that prioritizes diversification, human rights, and climate change mitigation. By understanding the complexities of Africa's development, policymakers, investors, and development practitioners can work together to create a more prosperous and sustainable future for the continent.

Weight: 424g
Dimension: 147 x 222 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786994783