China's Growing Soft Power In Africa:Case Study Of Ethiopia

The Sino-African relation is not a new concept it has historical background and deep rooted.The relationship has been booming and have seen a significant change in recent years.China has been investing in Africa aggressively in different sector in the past two decades.The stepping up of China in Africa has drawn attention and international observers are suspicious of China's intent in the continent.Some argue that China is exerting a lot of influence and taking over African resources without giving the fair share back in return,and that prospects of future relation is zero-sum.International observers mainly from the west goes to the extent suggesting that it is a new day "neo-colonization." However,looking at the strong relations of China with Ethiopia that has been growing steadily,the true nature of the engagement is misunderstood.The economic power of China has been an important tool at its disposal for its soft power development in Africa.This paper argues that China's engagement with Africa is not "neo-colonization" as some suggests rather it is soft power development.The case study of Ethiopia found that,although there are many' issues that need to be addressed,Africa is benefiting immensely from China's engagement.There is a big room for more engagement and deepening of relations that would contribute greatly for China's soft power development Thus,the aim of this paper is to examine the growing influence of China in Africa by investigating all areas that China has been involved in.Furthermore,analysis of the case study,survey and interview findings will address the shortcoming of the engagement.