The Evolution of China’s Foreign Aid Perspective towards Africa: The Case Study of TAZARA Railway from the Cold War to the Present

Year 2024, Volume: 29 Issue: 2, 174 - 194, 07.01.2025

Rahman Nurdun

Abstract

This study examines the evolution of China’s foreign aid policies in Africa by focusing on the Tanzania Zambia Railway (TAZARA), a key infrastructure project initiated during Mao Zedong’s era. Initially conceived as a symbol of solidarity with developing nations, TAZARA reflects China’s ideological commitment during the Cold War. The research addresses how the evolution of China’s foreign aid policies in Africa from the Cold War to the present is illustrated by TAZARA and how its historical development has influenced China’s current aid approach. The analysis situates TAZARA within China’s shifting aid policies, transitioning from Mao’s ideological motivations to Deng Xiaoping’s pragmatic economic focus. This transition laid the groundwork for the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which emphasizes infrastructure development to expand China’s global influence. While existing literature critically assesses China’s aid dynamics, few studies analyze TAZARA as a case study of evolving aid strategies. This research fills that gap by providing a qualitative examination of TAZARA, incorporating both Chinese and Western perspectives to highlight its significance. The study is organized into four sections: the evolution of China’s aid strategy; the rationale behind TAZARA’s construction; the implications of TAZARA’s rehabilitation within the BRI; and a concluding reflection on how TAZARA symbolizes China’s multifaceted engagement in Africa. Ultimately, the findings suggest that TAZARA represents both a historical legacy and a strategic initiative, highlighting China’s commitment to fostering deeper diplomatic ties and shared prosperity across the continent.

Keywords

TAZARA Railway, Tanzania, Zambia, China, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

References

• References are indicated in the article.