Kenya's and Zambia's Relations with China 1949-2019

This book examines the history of post-colonial Kenya's and Zambia's relations with the People's Republic of China from ideological, political, economic, and social perspectives. It challenges the widely accepted role of China-Africa's historical lineage and sheds light on the historical underpinnings of contemporary China-Africa relations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 17 January 2023
Publisher: James Currey

The study delves into the intricate history of post-colonial Kenya and Zambia's relations with the People's Republic of China, exploring various dimensions such as ideology, politics, economics, and society. Africa has emerged as a crucial lens through which to examine and comprehend China's increasing influence in the global South, yet the impact of their historical relationship has been largely overlooked. By employing a triangulation of global Cold War, African history, and Chinese history, this research offers a comprehensive analysis of China-Africa relations in the second half of the 20th century. The book examines the encounters, conflicts, and dynamics of China-Kenya/Zambia relations from the 1950s to the present, shedding light on the basis upon which historical narratives have been constructed. It presents two contrasting state perspectives, highlighting the concept of African agency.

Driven by a class-based analysis of world revolution, Communist China's foreign policy did not differentiate significantly between Kenya and Zambia. Both countries sought ideological and material support from China in the years following their independence. The Kenya African National Union, led by figures such as Jomo Kenyatta and Daniel Moi, pursued a pragmatic foreign agenda, navigating political tensions and ideological rifts with China since the mid-1960s. Despite these challenges, Sino-Kenyan trade has continued to grow steadily.

In contrast, China-Zambia relations under Kenneth Kaunda were characterized by cordiality, even amidst political differences. Zambian leaders maintained a high consensus that any alleged Chinese Communist threat would not be used to fuel power struggles within their United National Independence Party. This study challenges both the widely accepted role of China-Africa's historical lineage and the tendency to assume uniformity in China's relationships with African countries. By examining the unique dynamics and complexities of China-Kenya/Zambia relations, the book provides valuable insights into the complex and multifaceted nature of China's engagement with the African continent.

Weight: 528g
Dimension: 242 x 164 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781847013392