Tag: Diplomacy

Is China a Democracy?

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By Ernest Jovan Talwana

One of the hardest – and perhaps most controversial definitions in political literature today is democracy. What is democracy? Who decides what is democratic? Is there a universal value attached to democracy? Do all people, from all cultures, from all histories, and from all social-economic conditions, share common perspectives on what is or is not “democratic?” Is democracy about the processes of governance or the purposes and/or results of governance?

These are relevant and hard questions to settle in our contemporary political world. China is an interesting country to discuss on this topic because it is internationally considered to be among the least democratic countries in the world. (Here, I use the word “internationally” loosely to mostly mean the Western international community.) Out of 176 countries indexed in 2023, China ranked the 172nd least democratic country in the world, with a label of being a “Hard Autocracy.” This is a claim worth inquiring into, and consequently deconstructing. Often, when we talk about a country being “democratic,” we are referring to the values we cherish and thus attach to democracy. But those values are neither universal nor permanently fixed. They are values appreciated differently in different societies.

Every society’s experience, both historical and contemporary, shapes its national value systems, which inform its politics. As such, it would be misleading to assess every country’s political system based on the yardstick of Western understanding on democracy and autocracy. In fact, forcing a particular society’s political-value-standard onto every other society, is the quintessential embodiment of undemocratic behaviour. Therefore, before we understand whether China is a democracy or not, we need to first inquire into whether the label of China being a “Hard Autocracy” is from the billion Chinese people or from the mind of a guy working for a think tank or government agency in a Western capital somewhere.

Indeed, some studies challenge some western main scholarships findings on this topic. For example, Tony Saich, a Daewoo Professor of International Affairs and director of the Ash Centre explains that their 15 years quest to build a firmer understanding of Chinese opinion “found that compared to public opinion patterns in the U.S., in China there is very high satisfaction with the central government” with 95.5% of respondents saying “were either “relatively satisfied” or “highly satisfied” with Beijing. Compared to Gallup’s findings which revealed that only 38% of U.S citizens were satisfied with the American federal government, and aware that democracy is about majority, one can conclude that to brand China “hard autocracy” is nothing but a smear campaign.

China is a very different society from the United States of America, Britain, Norway, or even Uganda. The Chinese have diverse opinions on many things—just like all people in all places—but they share a common set of ideals, interests, or values that they pursue and want to realize. Their ideals shape what is democratic for them, and it doesn’t matter whether that ultimate thing they want out of politics is similar to what Americans or Norwegians want out of their politics.

China has a different set of prerequisites that its citizens follow to both choose and also hold public officials to account. As long as those prerequisites are met within the Chinese system, that process is democratic for them. The problem comes when the world’s all-knowing people from the West criticise the system established and upheld by the billion Chinese people because it doesn’t appeal to the political taste of the handful of millions of Europeans and Americans.

No one other than Chinese citizens has the political right to question China’s intrinsic brand of democracy. It is likely that citizens of Western countries value their democracy because it serves their interests and upholds their ideals and value systems. Those values might differ from what people in other countries, even in the Western world, or within different states in the United States want. But that doesn’t challenge the “democraticness” of their democracy. This principle should be applied when analysing China’s democracy too.

In China, the political administration developed what they conceptualised as a “whole-process people’s democracy.” The Chinese government translated this concept into relevant democratic values, which its public institutions are bound by and which the government strives to realize. China defines the whole-process people’s democracy as one that “integrates process-oriented democracy with results-oriented democracy, procedural democracy with substantive democracy, direct democracy with indirect democracy, and people’s democracy with the will of the state.” They understand this to be a model of socialist democracy that covers all aspects of the democratic process and all sectors of society. For them, it is “a true democracy that works.”

If what the Chinese wanted out of democracy was improved standards of living, their government over the last four decades has achieved that. Who can question whether that is not democracy for them? It is understood that in the Western world, a country is known to be democratic if citizens rise up frequently to challenge government authority. But this understanding of social behaviour blinds one to the nuance that within traditional Chinese philosophy, the preservation of social harmony is what is considered respectable order, not disruptive behavior. As such, Chinese citizens could be getting more from their government by maintaining the orderly political contestation that the ostentatious political activity experienced in the West.

We need to understand that democracy is not a decorative piece of ribbon picked and worn by every country to show off. It is rather an instrument through which public concerns are addressed. As long as China addresses the concerns of the Chinese people, that is democracy for them. The level of efficiency and order in the Chinese government are not questioned often. That is a big vote for the trust the citizens have in the democracy of China.

The author is a research fellow at the Development Watch Center.

 

CHINA’S DIPLOMATIC BLUEPRINT: HOPE FOR A DYING ART OF DIPLOMACY

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By Salim Abila Asuman

In the modern geopolitics, an ugly discovering has been made: the cold-blooded killing of traditional diplomacy of dialogue between nations lies lifeless, its vibrant spirit snuffed out by the hands of indifference and hostility.

The absence of diplomatic discourse has left a void, one that threatens the fabric of peaceful coexistence. As one looks through the wreckages, a narrative of betrayal and neglect begins to unravel, revealing a sinister conspiracy to silence the voice of reason and compromise.

With the menace of conflict looming large, the urgent question resonates: can the echoes of traditional diplomacy of dialogue be resurrected before the drums of war drown out all hope for peaceful coexistence, and how can China be of help in its resurrection?

For generations, conventional diplomacy of dialogue stood as the beacon of hope in a world often besieged by the storms of conflict and discord.

Diplomats used their words with precision, forging alliances and as a result, weaving the delicate threads of international relations with finesse and grace. This was when the world was once where trust was built through the exchange of ideas, where bonds of friendship were forged over shared experiences and mutual respect.

As proof, the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648, which not only ended the Thirty Years’ War but also laid the foundation for the modern state system, or the Camp David Accords in 1978, where President Jimmy Charter brokered peace between Egypt and Israel, setting a precedent for diplomatic breakthroughs in the Middle East.

However, as the digital age expanded its dazzling excellence, traditional diplomacy of dialogue found itself at a crossroads, confronting a challenging adversary in the form of rapid technological advancement.

In a world where tweets and hashtags carry more weight than treaties and virtual summits replace face-to-face negotiations, this old guard confrontation struggles to maintain its relevance in an ever-evolving landscape.

From the Korean Peninsula to the heat of Africa, examples overflow of how neglecting dialogue with adversaries only deepens cracks and prolongs suffering.

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s M23 rebellion and the Rwanda Congo situation serves as a stark reminder of this reality that is closest to us. Instead of engaging in constructive dialogue with the rebel faction, a militarised response is opted. The absence of sustained diplomatic efforts not only exacerbated the conflict but also upset attempted to address the underlying grievances fuelling the rebellion, perpetuating instability and human suffering.

Similarly, the standoff between North Korea and the international community underscores the risks of neglecting diplomacy. Despite repeated attempts at negotiations, including multilateral talks and bilateral engagements, the North Korean nuclear issue remains unresolved. The absence of sustained dialogue has led to periodic escalations and heightened tensions, stressing the urgent need for diplomatic engagement.

In the Middle East, from the occupied territories of Palestine to the war-torn landscapes of Syria, the failure to prioritise diplomacy has perpetuated conflict and hindered efforts for peace.

These examples underscore the critical importance of embracing the dying traditional diplomacy of dialogue as a means of resolving global conflicts. While military interventions may offer temporary solutions, they often exacerbate tensions and sow the seeds of future strife.

To address the question that was previously raised; As a significant global force and a central actor on the world’s stage China continues to foster the resurrection of dialogue as the foremost instrument for resolving conflicts and this is how;

Sustained dialogue, grounded in mutual understanding and compromise, remains the most effective pathway to lasting peace and stability and China emerges as a formidable player for its diplomatic strategies that prioritise dialogue and cooperation, even with adversaries.

In the stormy seas of international relations, China’s approach to diplomacy stands as a beacon of stability and pragmatism. Rooted in the time-honored tradition of dialogue and cooperation, China’s diplomatic blueprint offers invaluable lessons for navigating the complexities of our interconnected world.

At the heart of China’s diplomatic philosophy lies a steadfast commitment to dialogue. Amidst differences and tensions, China recognises the indispensable role of communication and negotiation in preventing conflicts and fostering mutual understanding. Whether engaging with adversaries or allies, China’s dedication to dialogue remains firm, serving as a cornerstone of its diplomatic approach.

Territorial disputes, particularly in the South China Sea, exemplify China’s emphasis on diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation. Through platforms like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), China seeks peaceful resolution and manages tensions, demonstrating the power of dialogue in promoting stability in contested regions.

Ongoing negotiations with neighbouring nations underscore China’s commitment to resolving disputes through diplomatic channels, showcasing a pragmatic and constructive approach to conflict resolution.

Furthermore, China prioritises identifying mutual interests with adversaries to foster cooperation across a spectrum of issues. From trade and environmental protection to global governance, China not only builds trust but also cultivates a conducive environment for sustainable cooperation amidst diverging interests.

Above all, China places a premium on stability and harmony in international campaigns and prioritising dialogue and cooperation, China contributes to a more peaceful world order. Whether mediating conflicts or participating in multilateral forums, China’s diplomatic judgement promotes prosperity and security for all nations.

In recognising the interconnectedness of our global community, China advocates for diplomatic solutions to conflicts, emphasising the importance of cooperation and mutual respect.

From the Korean Peninsula to the Middle East and Africa, China’s diplomatic engagements exemplify its role as a responsible global actor committed to fostering peace and prosperity.

To sum it all up, China’s diplomatic blueprint offers a compelling narrative for navigating the complexities of international relations. By embracing dialogue, managing disputes, focusing on mutual interests, and prioritising stability, China sets an exemplary standard for fostering a more harmonious and prosperous global community. Its diplomatic wisdom servings as a guiding light towards a more peace world, China’s diplomatic blueprint is hope for this dying art of diplomacy in the face of its death.

The writer is a research fellow at the Development Watch Centre.

 

 

 

SINO-UGANDA RELATIONS HAVE ENTERED A CRUCIAL STAGE

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By Steven Akabwayi

Early Feb this year, China opened a visa center in Kampala for ordinary passport holders, aiming to reduce congestion at the main embassy. The center was launched by the Chinese Ambassador to Uganda H.E Zhang Lhizong, purposely to ease travel for Ugandan nationals traveling to China for business and other activities.

The relations between Uganda and China have been grown rapidly over the years. It should be noted that by 2023,, the trade volume between the two countries had risen by 6.6%, reaching 1.14 billions

Uganda Airlines is expected to open direct flights between Entebbe and China’s Guangzhou City which will ease trade and also strengthen people diplomacy within the two countries.

China’s direct investment in Uganda reached 131million US dollars in 2022, ranking 10th among all African countries

President Museveni has always shown optimism on Sino-Africa relations, in one of his interviews in 2022, he demystified allegations commonly peddled by Western countries that Beijing expands its influence by drawing smaller economies into a debt trap.

“Africa has been having problems for the last 600 years due to the slave trade, colonialism, neocolonialism, and none of it was from China,” he said.

China’s engagement with Uganda is rooted in a shared commitment to development and prosperity. Over the years, China has emerged as one of Uganda’s most significant partners, investing in key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and healthcare. These investments have played a pivotal role in driving Uganda’s economic growth, creating jobs, and improving the quality of life for millions of Ugandans.

One of the most notable examples of China’s contribution to Uganda’s development is the construction of the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway. This vital infrastructure project, funded by China Exim Bank and built by Chinese companies, has not only eased traffic congestion but also enhanced connectivity, facilitating trade and investment within the region.

Moreover, China’s support for Uganda’s agricultural sector has been instrumental in boosting food security and rural livelihoods. Through initiatives like the Uganda-China Agricultural Technology Demonstration Center, Chinese experts share their expertise in modern farming techniques, irrigation systems, and crop diversification, empowering Ugandan farmers to increase productivity and adapt to climate change.

Critics often raise concerns about China’s involvement in Africa, citing issues such as debt sustainability and environmental degradation. However, such criticisms fail to acknowledge the agency of African nations like Uganda in negotiating mutually beneficial partnerships with China. Unlike colonial powers of the past, China’s approach to engagement with Africa is based on equality, mutual respect, and non-interference in domestic affairs.

Furthermore, China’s investments in Uganda go beyond infrastructure and agriculture, extending to education, healthcare, and human resource development. Through initiatives like the China-Uganda Friendship Hospital in Naguru and scholarships for Ugandan students to study in China, bilateral cooperation in the healthcare and education sectors has strengthened people-to-people ties and fostered cultural exchange.

The significance of China-Uganda relations transcends bilateral cooperation and holds implications for regional and global dynamics. As Uganda serves as a gateway to the East African Community (EAC) and the Great Lakes region, its strategic importance cannot be overstated. China’s investments in Uganda’s infrastructure, particularly in transportation and energy, contribute to regional integration and promote economic development across East Africa.

Moreover, Uganda’s participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) offers opportunities for connectivity and trade along the Maritime Silk Road and the Silk Road Economic Belt. As a landlocked country, Uganda stands to benefit from enhanced infrastructure linkages and improved access to global markets, positioning it as a key player in Africa’s economic transformation.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, China’s support for Uganda’s healthcare system has been particularly noteworthy. From donating medical supplies and equipment to deploying medical teams, China has stood in solidarity with Uganda in the fight against the virus. This demonstration of friendship and cooperation underscores the resilience of China-Uganda relations in times of crisis.

Looking ahead, the potential for deeper cooperation between China and Uganda is immense. From harnessing renewable energy resources to promoting sustainable tourism and enhancing digital connectivity, there are numerous avenues for collaboration that can benefit both nations and contribute to shared prosperity.

In conclusion, the relationship between China and Uganda is not only critical but also holds immense potential for shaping the future of both nations and the broader African continent. Through cooperation, mutual respect, and commitment to common development goals, China and Uganda can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Steven Akabwayi a Research fellow at Development Watch Centre.

 

Navigating the minefield of negative media punchlines on China-Africa relations will take forming our own opinions

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By George Musiime

As Africans, we cannot continue to be a people that turn on our own because we have outsiders urging us on to do so. We are as human, as the next human trying to help us determine our destiny. Unfortunately, to use the words of one notable Son of Africa Dr. Kaihura Nkuba, the biggest obstacle to Africa’s progress is “the riddle of who we truly are” and to some this, all we need is to build our people’s confidence in being African and taking pride in it. Only then shall we be able to think for ourselves and to trust our choices; that we are able to make the right choices for our people and ourselves. As sociologists argue, he who controls your langauge of discourse your reality! History has it that we have already lost to the ploys of divide and conquer in the past. Moreover, albeit being able to lift the heavy boot of colonialism from our neck at independence, we were not able to totally free ourselves, as many of us remain prone to being turned into marionettes; our opinions swayed easily by manipulating a few strings by some who relentlessly attempts to influence the course of our future.

When it comes to Sino-Africa relations, it is no doubt that China presents Africa with a uniquely suitable development partner who understands the distinctive problems of the continent and its people given our shared history. Yet commentary originating from without is often times punctuated by denunciations that echo notions such as resource exploitation, developmental debt-trap diplomacy, corruption, dictatorship and neo-colonialism etcetera. What is more is that, unless we take the initiative to rationalize the spirit underpinning the conception of such opinions, we are likely to be misled and consequently pitted against arguably, Africa’s best bet when it comes to development partnerships and all that  to our own detriment.

One such opinion is the negative impact of Confucius institutes (CIs) across Africa, which critics associate with a tactful push of Chinese soft power and influence over Africa. Since the establishment of the first CI in Kenya in 2005, many more have followed with the aim providing an understanding of the Chinese culture and language to many Africans. This has in turn laid the necessary groundwork for the growing cultural interaction between the African continent and China. For example, by 2018, during the FOCAC conference in Beijing, China committed to making available 50,000 government scholarships to African students as well as 50,000 opportunities for seminars and workshops to train more professionals in a diversity of fields. All this serve to strengthen one of the key pillars of China-Africa relations, which is the people-to-people exchange. Therefore, CIs do not act as a tool for imposing Chinese culture in the old assimilation fashion as critics baselessly claim; but rather serve to build a bridge for the exchange of knowledge, culture and expertise between China and Africa.

This is in line with the Chinese diplomacy principle of bolstering people-to-people exchange between China and rest of the world focusing on relations that are not prejudiced or relations  where one-entity projects its superiority over the other. Conversely, these are relations built on mutual understanding and camaraderie.  Such should be the basis upon which Africa relations must be built especially at a time when we are looking to take a step into the future; away from the mound of bottlenecks, the continent has faced against a backdrop of unfair dealings where Africa has engaged as the lesser party. Of course, China understands this as a fundamental cornerstone to progressive diplomatic relations with Africa as emphasized in their foreign policy. The Chinese approach is from a position of awareness that not only Africa needs China but China needs Africa as well if we are both to achieve our development goals. As such, China relations with Africa are hinged on the understanding that both parties are Partners of equal significance and nothing but a win-win cooperation. Moreover, as we move towards improved diplomatic collaboration aided in part by the work of the Confucius institutes, we realize an increased potential for extending the chain of linked benefits. As diplomatic collaboration avenues are expanded, so are development partnerships both in the public private sectors for both parties. This in turn forms a sound basis for a surge in trade and investments, the one thing that Africa needs more than anything at the moment.

Therefore, to emphasize cultural and language exchange as a tool for galvanizing Chinese soft power over Africa while ignoring the role of language as a cornerstone of human interaction and communication as emphasized by a 2023 publitard article titled “The Role of Language in Global Collaboration” and a key part in the broader jigsaw puzzle that is global cooperation is to say the least intellectual dishonesty. Even more important is the emphasis on mutually beneficial China-Africa relations stressed in a document titled “China’s African Policy” which also highlights actionable steps to this end.  According to this policy paper, the five key aspects of the China-Africa relations are Sincerity, Equality, Mutual benefit, Solidarity, and common development focusing on the fundamental benefits of both the African and Chinese people.

Certainly, this is not to say that this is exactly how things are going to happen in principle but the language and cultural exchange being built under the flagship of the Confucius Institutes is a key ingredient in putting in place an integral element on the soft infrastructure such as the people-to-people exchange necessary for China-Africa relation. And it should be the work of all; governments, Independent thinkers and every forward-thinking African to debunk the punchy news headlines and social media bites aimed at painting the negative image of China-Africa Relations and the future for Africa.

George Musiime is a research fellow at the Sino-Uganda Research Centre.

Diplomacy and Economic Development: Taking Stock of China-Uganda Relations

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By Nanziri Christine

The world today considers diplomacy vital in shaping and developing countries’ economies. As a landlocked country in East Africa, establishing diplomatic relations with various countries is considered one of the ways to boost Uganda’s economy. Through economic diplomacy from both sides, to a greater extent, Uganda continues to attract Chinese investments in different sectors a trend that started 60 years ago and improved from strength to strength in the last two decades that today, for consecutive years, China tops Uganda’s source of foreign direct investments!

China’s role in Uganda’s economic development is evident in various forms, including infrastructure development, education, health, agriculture, and trade. Last year, the two countries celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations. China was one of the first nations to recognise the newly independent nation, Uganda, and the relationship between the two has been strengthened by China’s policy of non-interference in internal affairs of others.

China has been involved in Uganda’s infrastructural development, positively impacting the economy of Uganda as a whole and neighbouring countries. Examples include the construction of Uganda’s largest hydropower dams, Karuma and Isimba power dams, which have increased Uganda’s electricity generation capacity. Other China supported infrastructure projects include roads, with China funding the glamorous Entebbe express highway.

China has equally positively impacted Uganda’s healthcare sector. China has so far sent 21 medical teams to Uganda to support its medical healthcare services plus building a 100-bed – China-Uganda friendship hospital (Naguru hospital) to boost Uganda’s health. When the Covid 19 pandemic broke out, as the rest of major economies of the world embraced vaccine nationalism, China religiously amplified her support donating the much-needed medical supplies to Uganda.

The Agriculture, fishing and trade sectors have also been developed through China’s training programs and the provision of equipment. For example, the Aquaculture Research and Development Centre Kajjansi also known as China-Uganda Friendship Agricultural Technological Demonstration Centre is one of many vivid examples in this sector.

Relatedly, working with the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in 2009 China introduced a new programme dubbed FAO-China South-South Cooperation (SSC) and created a FAO-China Trust Fund with $30 million to specifically support Uganda’s agriculture sector. In 2015, China launched the second phase of SSC and injected $50million before adding another $50million in phase III which was launched in 2021. During implementation of SSC’s phase II, China funded and sent 47 Chinese agricultural experts and technicians on a two years mission to train Ugandans to improve technologies used in production of rice, grapes, cherry tomatoes, foxtail millet, and apples among others. The project focused on exchanging mechanisation, agro-processing and value-addition expertise. Considering the multiplier effects that comes with such projects, the role of China in Uganda’s agriculture sector cannot be ignored.

In trade, last year China announced a preferential trade arrangement for Ugandan goods granting zero-tariff treatment to 98% of imports from Uganda – a development that in many ways will widen the market for Uganda’s agricultural produce. Agriculture sector is the backbone of Uganda’s economy, with over 70% of the country’s population deriving their livelihood from it.

China has also invested in Uganda’s mining sector, majorly in the exploration of oil and gas. Uganda and Tanzania are seeking funding from China to develop an export pipeline before 2025. China’s willingness to fund Uganda’s oil sector leaves us in a privileged position to have China as a creditable development and business partner are evident. Future plans for the oil industry and exploration by the Chinese North Offshore Oil Company (CNOOC) by 2025 will boost Uganda’s economy, transforming the standard of living of the majority of Ugandans through job creation for both skilled and unskilled citizens in the oil and gas sector.

In human capital capacity development, China’s hand is visible. As of today, China has provided thousands of scholarship opportunities to Ugandans, including both short and long courses.

Generally, talking about Uganda’s economic development journey without mentioning China’s role makes the analysis incomplete. The unique part is that unlike other cooperation between Uganda and other traditional development partners, China-Uganda cooperation is partnership of equals, mutual trust and is based on win-win cooperation.

However, Sino-African critics have always claimed that Chinese development assistance especially infrastructure funding is leaving Uganda and some other African countries heavily indebted with the so-called debt trap. However, while we cannot completely dismiss voices against over borrowing, such sweeping statements should be cautiously listened too. Today, as a result of global politics and changing global order, it is clear that there is a calculated move meant to discredit Sino-Africa relations which has seen many of critics cherry-picking facts when it comes to critiquing China’s development assistance to developing world. However, to allay fears of critics, Uganda and in general all developing countries should aim to remain responsible borrowers and only go for loans when very necessary. Otherwise, it is unfair to carry on sweeping statements of the so-called debt diplomacy and misinterpret China’s good will of offering development assistance that China is hiding what critics claim to be ulterior motives.

In conclusion, it is indisputable that China plays a major role in Uganda’s economic development. The relationship between the two countries is characterized by mutual benefit and cooperation, with both countries working together to promote economic development and improve the wellbeing of their people and build a community of shared prosperity for mankind. It’s pertinent therefore for countries around the world to continue cooperating in order to ensure that economic development is experienced by all nations and build a world of shared future with shared prosperity.

Nanziri Christine is a law student at UCU and a Junior Research Fellow at Sino-Uganda Research Centre.

Understanding the benefits of China-Uganda relations: A tale from Ugandan

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No matter how cliché it may sound, no one can be on his or her own, we all at one moment need
support from our colleague(s). In context of nation-state relations and international relations, all
countries world over need support from each other. In context of development, especially
developing countries rely on support from allies to boast their development agendas.
Uganda is one of the developing countries making positive strides in the country’s development
efforts. To achieve this, it is worth talking and acknowledging countries whose relations with
Kampala support Uganda’s development efforts.

Looking at all sectors that are vital for a country’s social and economic development, Uganda’s
journey is incomplete without mention the role played by the People’s Republic of China. From
infrastructure to trade and investments, agriculture, education, health and human capital
development, China has been a catalyst in Uganda's economic development path. The bilateral
relations between the two countries started just days after Uganda gained her independence and
have been elevating from time to time. Today, the relationship between Kampala and Beijing are
at its peak.
In addition to that, following the increased Chinese companies and firms in Uganda, many
Ugandans have attained employment which has helped them to have better standards of living
and end poverty in various Ugandan families for example, over 1000 Ugandans employed in
Kapyeka industrial park with other thousands in other Chinese firms and parks in the country.
In education sector, for several decades, China has been supporting Ugandan scholars in
education sector offering thousands of scholarships opportunities and trainings to Ugandans.
Aware that human capital development is key in development process of a country, this is an
area that cannot be swept under the carpet. China has also been offering training opportunities to
Ugandan civil servants including medical personnel which is very vital as far as capacity
building is concerned.

In technology, China has also has also played an active role supporting the country’s
technological advancement journey. Huawei for example has been supporting young Ugandans
technological innovations. During the 2015 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation held in
Johannesburg, South Africa, China promised to support 10,000 African villages connected to
satellite Television. After the Uganda Communications Commission announced deadline for all
television to go digital, Chinese firm Star Times promptly intervened and since 2018, Uganda,
star times has connected a number of areas in the country with Startimes Television network.
Though one may look at Star Times investments from a business angle, it is also a fact that it has
being a fordable, it has helped thousands of people to remain connected.

From the economic perspective, trade between the two countries has increased and is still
booming. For example, statistics shows that Beijing-Kampala trade has quadrupled from
$230million in 2008 to over than $1billion in 2020. Uganda has emerged as a potential market

for many Chinese businesses, both state-owned and private firms. Chinese investments in
Uganda benefit the country in both direct and indirect ways including providing employment
opportunities to tens of thousands of Ugandans.
In agriculture sector, China is also a house hold name in Uganda. A few years after Uganda’s
independence, China supported Uganda government to establish Kibimba rice scheme the first of
its kind in the country. Since then, China has been supporting Uganda’s agriculture sector
extending its agricultural technology to both Uganda’s small- and large-scale agribusiness
projects including offering training skills to Ugandans by Chinse agriculture scientists and
experts. In March 2022, Chinese government and Uganda’s signed a 20M USD project toward
Uganda’s social and livelihoods projects to be undertaken under Parish Development Model.
China is also supporting mushroom growing in the country which supports women and youth
projects. PRC has also been supporting bamboo growing in Uganda not only as a way of
supporting the country in environmental conservation but also source of income.

In health Sector, China continues to play a brotherly role in supporting Uganda’s efforts of
building a strong and functioning health system. China is credited for having funded the
construction of China-Uganda friendship hospital also known as Naguru Hospital. To date,
China supports the hospital with medical supplies and medical personnel. In same way, during
Covid pandemic, China stood shoulder to shoulder with Uganda and other African countries by
offering them then much needed medical supplies and vaccines that the Global North had
decided to hoard. Actually, since 1983, China has been sending tens of medical experts to
Uganda annually to provide Ugandans with medical services. Last week, another team of
Chinese medical experts arrived in the country to start offering services in Ugandan hospital.

Mugisha Ambrose is a junior Research Fellow with Development Watch Centre, a Foreign
Policy Think Tank.

Sixty Years of China-Uganda Diplomatic Relations: What are the benefits?

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China and Uganda have a long diplomatic history. Just days after Uganda gained independence, China recognized Uganda as sovereign nation. Consequently, the two countries’ diplomatic journey started. In 1964, China invited and offered leadership training to several Ugandan youth. In the same year, a Ugandan minister Grace Ibingira was also invited to Beijing to discuss how China would support a newly independent country, Uganda.  This visit was followed by Uganda’s Prime Minister, then Milton Obote who held talks with leadership in Beijing that saw China giving Uganda a grant of $3 Million and $12 million loan to help a newly independent Uganda.

Between 1962 and 1985, bilateral relations between the two nations remained steady despite the regime changes in Uganda. Since then, the government of China has continued to provide developmental assistance to Uganda in form of interest-free loans and grants, technical training to Ugandans, supporting Uganda’s health sector and other vital fields of development. To date, one can argue that this kind of assistance between the two is now a tradition.

In a way of reciprocation, during the 26th General Assembly of the United Nations (UN) in 1971, Uganda voted in favor of the resolution on the restoration of China’s lawful seat in the world body.

Bilateral relations between the two countries entered a new stage of development after the National Resistance Movement came to power in 1986, with bilateral co-operation expanding and mutual high-level exchanges increasing. Since then, China’s contribution toward Uganda’s economic and social development has been on rise.

China’s contribution has mainly been directed towards infrastructural development in form of technical assistance, project aid, and business-related services. The sectors that have benefited from this include; transport, agriculture, manufacturing among others.

Today, China is Uganda’s largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). China’s investment footprint in Uganda became visible as early as 1991 with mostly small-scale restaurants and health clinics. This has transformed significantly over the years with investment now ranging widely from industries in the manufacturing sector to road construction projects.

In developing countries like Uganda, Foreign Direct Investment is a significant source of private finance, accumulation of physical capital and complementing adequate domestic savings. This is key to Economic Development owing to the low private sector capital and investment capacity in a developing country like Uganda. The entry of such investment has played an important role in improving livelihoods of many Ugandans.

China’s investment in Uganda’s industrial sector is also playing a key role in Uganda’s Economic Development. The introduction of several industrial parks such as in Mbale, Kapeeka, Jinja among others present a sample of China’s contribution. It is also estimated that Uganda’s industrial sector has expanded by over 6.2 percent attributed to construction and agro-processing industries and recovery in the mining and quarrying sub-sectors, a role that can be attributed to astute setting up of industries in Uganda by China and its nationals.

China’s contribution to infrastructural development particularly in the areas of transport, energy and Information technology has also facilitated economic development. In transport sector, with funding from Chinese government, Uganda has been able to construct several roads and other important infrastructural projects. For example, the Kampala-Entebbe expressway and Entebbe international airport were constructed with funds from China. Infrastructural development is a major catalyst for economic development.

Furthermore, trade between Uganda and China has also soared which has directly facilitated the economic development of the country. Trade in the form of imports from China widens the tax base of Uganda’s government and is later important in improving the physical quality of life of Ugandans. With further growth in Uganda’s industrial sector bred by China and abilities to trade in finished goods, the market of China also presents opportunities to Uganda and its nationals to achieve even more economic development.

China’s funding of projects in Uganda’s energy sector has addressed the issue of power shortage and high tariffs that initially affected Uganda’s potential and in turn boosted economic development. Key among these Chinese funded projects are the 600 MW Karuma Hydropower plant constructed along the River Nile in Northern Uganda and Isimba hydropower dams. Prior to this ambitious funding, Uganda faced a power crisis whose peak was in 2014 leading the government to resort to using diesel generators to power the country’s economy which raised the cost of power. High cost of power led to increase of prices of commodities which later affected the industrial growth and people in equal measure. Therefore, projects like Karuma and Isimba hydropower dams have been important because industrialization which is earmarked to ensure continued economic development thrives in increased electricity capacities.

It is also important to note that the provision of loans to Uganda to enhance her development is also a way China has contributed to Uganda’s economic development. Although it is often argued that debt cripples an economy, where handled rightly, visible achievements of loans can be enjoyed by a country. Uganda’s relationship with China has facilitated occasional facilities extended through China herself or her financial institutions. A case in point where economic development can be said to have been influenced through loans is a 482.5 million US dollars Isimba Hydroelectricity Power Station project.  The project is now complete thanks to loan from the Export-Import Bank of China which will be repaid over a period of twenty years at a two percent annual interest with a five-year grace period.

It is without a doubt therefore that good diplomatic relations between China and Uganda have not gone to waste. In terms of economic development, Uganda has gained in all aspects. Despite areas that need improvement, the relations between China and Uganda will continue to bear not only economic but also social transformation of Uganda.

Katende Arnold Ricky is a junior research Fellow at Development Watch Centre.

Uganda-China 59 years of diplomatic relations

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Akunzirwe Conrad

This week, Uganda and China marked celebrated 59 years since the two countries establishment diplomatic ties.  It is important to recall that China recognized Uganda as a newly independent Nation just a few days after Uganda was declared an independent country setting a stage for many other independent nations to follow the suit.  Since then, bilateral relations between the two countries have been growing from strength to strength that today, several Chinese diplomats have always emphasized that Beijing gives priority to its relations with Kampala.

Since 1962, Uganda and China continue to enjoy good relations. In 1971, Uganda was one of 76 Nations that voted to support UN resolution 2758 backing China’s membership at the UN.

Since the National Resistance Movement government came to power in 1986, the bilateral cooperation between China and Uganda has grown and China has supported Uganda in many ways contributing to the countries social, economic, and political growth. As discussed, below one can argue that today, China’s role in Uganda’s development efforts cannot be ignored:

Today, Uganda investments Authority figures indicate that China is Uganda’s top source of Foreign direct investments (FDI.) The two brotherly countries have on many occasions signed agreements that support their mutual benefits.

In the education sector, Uganda has benefited from China’s generous gesture of supporting the country’s education. Every year, China gives over 100 scholarships to Ugandan students to pursue education in China in different fields. This education support which includes undergraduate courses, masters, and Ph.D. is important to support considering that the development of human capital is one of the major steps any country must consider if it is to attain development. This education support is also extended to sometimes senior government officials, and technocrats. Earlier this month, the Chinese embassy in Uganda contributed 50 million shillings towards the rebuilding of Makerere university’s main building which was destroyed by fire in September 2000.

From the manufacturing sector, many Chinese firms and factories are dealing in the production of various goods in the country. With the cooperation of Chinese firms, the government of Uganda was able to establish a flourishing industrial park in different parts of the country including the establishment of Africa Shandong industrial park, Sino-Uganda industrial park in Mbale, the China-Uganda Agricultural Cooperation industrial park, among others. These industrial parks have in many ways contributed to Uganda’s economic development by creating employment opportunities for thousands of Ugandans. In economic terms, these firms are playing a pivotal role as far as Uganda’s vision 2040 of creating an industrious country is concerned. For example, in Kapeeka industrial park, these firms are now producing building tiles of which many are exported to neighboring countries thereby earning the country foreign currency.

In the health sector, the good diplomatic relations between the two countries have seen Uganda benefit from Chinese medical assistance. The construction of China-Uganda Friendship Hospital, Nagulu is a vivid example of china’s medical diplomacy in Uganda. Today, as the country is celebrating the 59th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between the two countries, the ministry of health spokesperson Ainebyoona Emmanuel announced on his Twitter account that Uganda is receiving seven hundred doses of Sinovac vaccines which is another huge support as the country intestines efforts in ensuring that many Ugandans get vaccinated as government’s plant to fully re-open the economy. This is the second batch China is giving to Uganda having given the country 300,000 doses in July this year.  As medics say, the highest ethical act one can do is to save a life, with the ravaging covid-19 pandemic, health experts have argued that the only effective way for countries to effectively defeat this pandemic world over will be through mass vaccination of people. Considering vaccines nationalism especially by rich countries which has seen many developing countries unable to access provide-19 vaccines on markets, one can argue that China’s donation of 700,000 vaccines doses is a big boost to Uganda’s vaccination campaign.

In the infrastructure sector, China has provided its full support to Uganda in terms of the construction of roads. China has supported Uganda’s infrastructure sector especially the construction of roads. The Uganda government believes an improved road network will help the country develop by easing transportation of goods and services in the country. Further, China has also supported Uganda’s energy infrastructure development by extending credit facilities. For example, with the support of a loan from China’s Exim Bank, Uganda was able to construct  Isimba hydro dam which increased the country’s electricity generation. Also, the Karuma hydropower dam which is nearing completion is being funded by China’s Exim bank. In conclusion, the diplomatic relations between Uganda and China have contributed greatly to Uganda’s social and economic development.

Conrad Akunzirwe is a research fellow with Development Watch Centre, a Foreign Policy Think Tank, and a law student at Strathmore University, Nairobi.

 

 

Sino-Uganda relations date back as early as 1962 when Uganda attained her independence.

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By Octave Ngabo

These relations have grown since to considerably that today, China is Uganda’s top source of Foreign direct investments (FDI).

The two nations have signed multiple cooperation agreements, exchanging students, medical teams among others all meant to help Uganda build her human capital.

It is therefore imperative to say that the two countries have excellent relations that are of mutual benefit.

In terms of economic relations, The Forum for China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) to which Uganda belongs was established in 2000 following a meeting between eighty African ministers and the Chinese leadership in Beijing.

The forum established a program of cooperation between African countries and China in areas such as investment, financial cooperation, debt relief, and cancellation, agriculture cooperation, natural resources and energy, education, and multilateral cooperation.

This cooperation has been of great developmental impact on Uganda’s economy. Many African countries Uganda inclusive have already enjoyed fruits of this cooperation.

In terms of trade between Uganda and China, the volume has grown and stands at US$558 million and China is Uganda’s largest trading patter. Uganda’s exports to China totalled up to US$39.61 million during 2020 according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade.

The major Ugandan exports to China are mainly agricultural products such as; oilseeds, grains, fruits, spices, coffee, tea, wood, and products of animal origin such as hides and skins.

China provides duty-free, quota-free access to its market to least developed countries including Uganda, and this, therefore, has created an opportunity for Ugandan traders to export to China due to its large market and incentives provided.

This has driven Ugandan exports high hence improving its balance of trade and balance of payment. China is also the second biggest importer to Uganda and in 2020, these imports were valued at US$1.35 billion.

The main imports included mainly electric and electronic equipment, machinery, iron and steel, textiles, chemicals, and plastics.

China is, therefore, a source of highly needed products in Uganda at relatively cheap prices and these products have helped drive up economic development and the importation business from China is a source of employment to many Ugandans as observed by various small-scale traders in many arcades and malls in Ugandan towns.

In terms of manufacturing, many Chinese firms have established several factories and helped the Ugandan government to establish industrial parks such as the Sino Uganda Mbale industrial park, Africa Shandong Industrial Park, and the China-Uganda Agricultural Cooperation Industrial Park.

These industrial parks have helped drive up the level of industrialization in Uganda, hence diversifying Uganda’s economy.

Chinese-owned factories include electronics factories that produce electronic products at cheap prices locally, factories that carry out value addition to agricultural produces hence creating a market for the local farmers, and factories that manufacture timber products.

These factories have created employment opportunities for many Ugandans hence improving their livelihood. These factories have also led to a reduction in imports hence improving the balance of trade for Uganda.

China has emerged as a significant financier of infrastructure projects in Uganda. Most of this financing goes to the transport and the energy sectors and are financed through the China Exim bank.

Examples of these Chinese-funded projects include US$1.4 billion Karuma dam, US$483 million Isimba hydropower dam and the US$350 million construction of the Kampala-Entebbe express highway.

These projects are expected to speed up industrialization in Uganda due to the availability of cheap electric power and improved transport means. These projects have also created jobs for many Ugandans because 85% of the manpower on the projects are Ugandans.

In addition to these projects, many Chinese construction companies are undertaking various infrastructural projects in Uganda; a case in point is the Pearl Engineering Company Ltd.

The China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) is overseeing the construction of a pipeline from oilfields in Uganda to Tanga port in Tanzania and this will help to speed up the development of the oil sector in Uganda.

The ICT sector is another sector that has greatly benefitted from Sino-Uganda relations. Two Chinese companies have invested in Uganda’s ICT sector, one of them being Huawei. With the support of the Chinese government, these companies are working with telecommunication companies in Uganda to strengthen the country’s ICT sector.

In the media sector, Star times have got a hold of a reasonable share of the Ugandan market. It provides solutions to digital migration.

China has supported the education sector in Uganda by providing scholarship opportunities to Ugandan students in institutions of higher learning.

These scholarships have enabled knowledge sharing and cultural ties between the two countries. The Chinese embassy has also donated various materials such as computers and other scholastic materials to Ugandan schools.

In addition to this, the Chinese language has been approved as one of the foreign languages in Ugandan secondary schools to be taught and this, together with the setting up of the Confucius Institute at Makerere University has created cultural ties between the two nations.

Thousands of people including women, members of parliament, police officers have participated in training programs organized by the Chinese government in China and Chinese troupes have also visited Uganda and performed. This is a form of people-to-people and cultural exchange.

In the health sector, the Chinese government has funded the construction and equipping of the China-Uganda Friendship Hospital at Naguru. Teams of Chinese doctors have also visited the country and trained Ugandan medical personnel.

The agriculture sector has greatly benefitted from this Sino-Uganda relationship through the training of farmers, a project of the South-South cooperation program, which China and FAO have been collaborating with Uganda.

This has equipped local farmers with skills to improve their agricultural output. Around 3000 farmers have been trained and seven agriculture technology demonstration hubs have been established throughout the country, showcasing effective technologies in horticulture, livestock, cereals, aquaculture, renewable energy, agro machinery, value addition, and sustainable business models.

In conclusion, China has been a great development partner to Uganda in various sectors and through the provision of financial aid in form of loans, grants, and technical assistance.

China tops the list of planned FDI in Uganda and was valued at US$607 million in 2019 and created about 62,876 jobs. The Sino-Uganda relationship has therefore been paramount in Uganda’s economic development and will continue to play a critical role in this development.

Ngabo Octave is a junior researcher at Development Watch Centre, a Foreign Policy Think Tank, and a second-year Pharmacy student at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

China-Uganda journey of diplomacy: The Sun rose –work counting.

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By Alan Collins Mpewo

The Chinese Government always attaches great importance to Africa. It has always been an important component of China’s independent foreign policy of peace to develop and strengthen the friendly relations and cooperation with the developing countries, like Uganda. The principles governing the relations between China and Uganda and indeed other African countries put forward by late Premier Zhou Enlai during his tour to Africa in 1960’s is still applicable today. In early 1980’s Chinese leaders proposed four principles on economic and technological cooperation between China and African countries, namely: equality and mutual benefit, emphasis on practical results, diversity in form, and pursuit of common development. During his visit to Africa in May 1996, President Jiang Zemin put forward a five point proposal on developing a long-term and stable relationship of all-round cooperation with African countries oriented towards the 21st century, the core of which being sincere friendship, treating each other as equals, solidarity and cooperation, common development, and looking to the future, thus expounding profoundly the fundamental guidelines and policies of China for developing its friendly relations and cooperation with African countries in the new century.

Selectively chosen, Uganda has benefitted from the fruits of the tree – diplomacy. China and Uganda established diplomatic relations in October 1962. During the period of 1962-1985, bilateral relations witnessed a steady development in spite of the regime changes in Uganda. The two countries saw relatively few high-level exchanges with each other during their first part of the relationship, but Beijing has become a patron of Ugandan diplomacy, for example having donated $6.5 million in 2001 to construct the headquarters building for Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which was opened by 2004.

In recent years, Uganda has benefited a lot from its good relationship with China in several ways. First and foremost, China cancelled Uganda’s $17 million debt that had accrued from interest on loans before 2005, and China agreed to provide a grant of $6.8 million. China also granted tariff-free and quota-free treatment to more than 400 commodities from Uganda. China also plans to loan $350 million to the government to construct a six-lane, 51-kilometer express highway linking the capital city of Kampala to Entebbe International Airport, which will start in 2012 with funding on loan from the Chinese Government. In addition, China has constructed government offices and the state-of-the-art Mandela National Stadium Namboole. In southwestern Uganda, a Chinese road construction company, Chongqing International Construction Corporation (CICO), is constructing a 103-kilometer road linking the western town of Fort Portal to the Democratic Republic of Congo through the mountainous district of Bundibugyo.

China has further strengthened the solidarity and cooperation with Africa, and will makes continued efforts to achieve the goal of common development. Generally speaking, the main points of China’s policy towards Africa are as follows: Adhere to the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence, respect the choice of the political system and path of development made by African countries themselves in light with their own national conditions, no interfere in African countries’ internal affairs; support African countries; just struggle in safeguarding national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity; support African countries’ efforts in maintaining internal stability and unity, revitalising national economy and promoting social progress.

Support African countries in their efforts to strengthen unity and cooperation and solve their differences and disputes through peaceful negotiations without outside interference; support the positive measures including the implementation of NEPAD taken by the AU and other sub-regional organisations in seeking peace, stability, and development of the African continent, promoting African unity, and realising political and economic integrity.

Strengthen and develop a long-term stable relationship of all-round cooperation with African countries, increase exchange of visits by leaders of China and Africa, enhance personnel exchanges at different levels and in various fields, expand common ground, cement friendship, and promote cooperation.

Continue to provide, to the best of our ability, governmental assistance to African countries without any political conditions, and take measures to improve the performance of the projects built with China’s assistance; take the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation as a new platform and develop economic and trade cooperation with African countries in diversified forms and various fields on the principle of mutual respect, mutual benefit and complementing each other with our respective advantages, and encourage enterprises from both sides to enhance exchanges, enlarge bilateral trade, increase investment and seek common development.

Appeal to the international community especially the developed countries to show more respect and concern for Africa, attach more importance to the peace and development in Africa, adopt feasible measures to increase their aid for Africa, honor their commitment to debt relief, help Africa to solve their problems, promote economic development in Africa, and enable Africa to eradicate poverty so as to narrow the gap between Africa and other parts of the world.

Support African countries in participating and playing a positive role in international affairs as equal members of the international community, continue to uphold justice and speak out for African countries in international arenas, strengthen consultation and cooperation between the two sides, work together to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and strive for setting up a just and equitable new international political and economic order.

Sino-African friendship is in the fundamental interests of both Chinese and African people and has a broad prospect. In the new century, China is ready to further strengthen diplomatic exchanges and increase contacts and cooperation at different levels in various fields with African countries. China is ready to explore together with African countries new areas, new forms and new ways in Sino-African cooperation and scale new heights for Sino-African relations.

Alan Collins Mpewo is a Fellow at Development Watch Centre, a Foreign Policy Think Tank and a Law student at Islamic University in Uganda.

 

 

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