Deborah Brautingam: China in challenged democracies in Africa

There is economic growth in Africa. This is partly attributed to China’s presence and economic investments in many African countries.  While the struggle for social and political freedom seems to succeed in northern Africa, many regimes south of Sahara tightens their grip. These days protests and demonstrations in Uganda and Malawi are met with bullets and prison. What are the political implications of China in Africa? What political challenges threatens democratization in Sub Saharan Africa and why?

Deborah Brautigam, American University, Washington DC, explores the political and economic implications of the growing presence of China in Africa.

Nadini Patel, the Institute for Policy Interactions, Catholic University, Malawi, talks about the democratic backslide in Malawi.

Lise Rakner, the University of Bergen/ CMI, introduces a discussion on the current situation in Uganda.