AFRICA RISES NOT ALONE, BUT HAND-IN-HAND WITH FRIENDS LIKE CHINA JOSEF KEFAS SHEEHAMA

Africa stands at a critical moment in its economic development journey. As global trade patterns continue to evolve, and economic alliances become increasingly important, African countries have an opportunity to strengthen their position within the global economy through strategic partnerships that promote industrialization, trade expansion, and sustainable development. One of the most significant opportunities currently emerging is China’s decision to extend tariff-free access to African exports and the prospect of formalizing cooperation through the China–Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development Agreement (CADEPA).

In this context, Namibia and other African countries can deepen their engagement with China while simultaneously advancing the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Through stronger economic cooperation, African economies can accelerate industrialization, expand productive capacity, attract investment, and create employment opportunities that support long-term prosperity. Importantly, the strategic alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), CADEPA, and AfCFTA presents a unique opportunity to transform Africa’s economic landscape.

Together, these frameworks provide avenues for infrastructure development, trade facilitation, technological advancement, industrial growth, and regional integration. China’s engagement with Africa has contributed significantly to the development of transport networks, energy infrastructure, digital connectivity, industrial, and manufacturing capacity. Consequently, many African countries have improved their ability to participate in regional and international trade.