Chinese companies becoming very unpopular in Africa
The continued exploitation of local people by the Chinese Companies operating in African Countries and their disregard for the environment and culture of these countries have become serious roadblocks for continuation of their corporations.
The exploitative attitude of Chinese companies and their engulfing security apparatus in Africa is gradually turning the locals against them. Most African citizens do not view these companies as independent entities but know that they are part of the Chinese Communist government.
A peculiar feature of Chinese companies working in African countries is their insistence on using security apparatus and human resources from China. This constitutes the placement of personnel and security equipment on various construction or other project sites from Chinese agencies only.
According to some estimates, the rapid growth of Chinese operations has led to the deployment of about a million Chinese nationals with more than ten thousand Chinese companies in Africa. Only Chinese security companies are entrusted with the safety of these assets and nationals while securing the sea routes.
The practice seems to have its ideological roots in the colonial era when companies used to support private armies to deploy in their colonies. The market for Chinese security services has increased significantly since the launch of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Africa.
Prior to the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative in Africa, several Chinese companies operating in Africa were believed to be using armed militia.
While most Chinese companies provide traditional security services, many of them have acquired sophisticated capabilities of collecting intelligence and conducting surveillance against potential threats. Some of them are also even seen working closely with local institutions including the armed forces.
However, their rising clout and growing intervention in local problems are leading to many law and order problems in host countries. In 2018, two Chinese security contractors were arrested in Zambia for allegedly providing illegal training and supplying uniforms & military equipment to a local security company.
In particular, three countries viz., Congo, Sudan and South Sudan are believed to be facing law and order issues due to the activities of Chinese agencies.
The problem may also spread to other countries as many Chinese firms are trying to establish security partnerships in Mali, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, South Africa and Tanzania.
Though the Chinese security agencies have gained considerable influence in African countries and gained some inroads into their institutions, their acceptance among the local population is still a long draw.
African countries must get rid of all such Chinese Companies at the earliest, before it is too late. Otherwise sooner than later such companies have the potential of becoming the modern version of erstwhile East India Company.
