Having, giving, taking: Lessons on ownership in China's domestic development and contributions of its engagement

During recent years, the impact of China's engagement with Africa has gained increased attention. Discussions have revolved around the negative impact China potentially has on governance, human rights and debt sustainability, as well as the positive impacts of increased aid, trade and investment in Africa, especially the construction of much needed infrastructure. A number of researchers have also looked at some of the lessons of China's development that can be applied in Africa. One of the most important lessons from China for Africa is that countries should be responsible for their own development, and not rely on foreign donors. However, recipients are often restricted in their development strategies by donor requirements. The article will then analyse how China's engagement with Africa contributes to increasing the negotiating capital of countries in Africa helping them to take ownership of their own development processes. It will conclude that China's foreign aid programme is not geared specifically towards increasing recipient ownership, although there are a number of direct and indirect contributions. In addition, its international relations principles prevent more direct involvement in improving recipient ownership. For China to make a greater contribution to recipient ownership, a number of principles need to be revised.

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