Abstract

As China continues to expand its influence beyond its borders, this article seeks to analyze how the Belt and Road Initiative has become one of those means and has impacted the development of northern and eastern African nations. Previous literature in the field of sociology has focused on the legacy of decolonization still being felt throughout former European colonies in Africa and the inability of international organizations like the World Bank and International Monetary Fund to make real meaningful positive change in those countries. Using a case study analysis, this article attempts to analyze the New Silk Road offered by China and it has really been the positive alternative to the Western order of development that Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party has hoped it would be. What also makes this research unique is the connection made between the Belt and Road Initiative with what has become known as the “Chinese Dream.” The most effective way to explore the Belt and Road Initiative as it continues to make inroads throughout Africa is through a thorough case study analysis, which, at best, shows mixed results and many of the same issues that have plagued these countries for decades.