The African-Asian summit kicks off in the Indonesian city of Bandung. So much emphasis these days is placed on the growing economic ties between China and various African countries. While it might be anticipated that the future of this relationship would help spur much needed economic growth on the African continent, I seem to have a different opinion.

China's main interest in Africa is raw materials. Driven by the need to satisfy its humongous population with the trappings of a modern life, China seems to be stretching out its tentacles all across the globe grabbing markets. The Chinese have found a way of doing it and what African nations need to do is seek out how.

In my opinion, African governments need to concentrate on two facets of society – education, primarily science education, and healthcare. An uneducated populace simply cannot fit into the sphere of today's world. With a highly educated workforce, such governments will eventually see growth. There is more to economic development than foreign investments.

It is close to inconceivable why any nation in the 21st century should remain a net exporter of raw materials, only to continuously import finished goods made with those materials. A thinking nation is one that aspires to add value to such materials before export. Adding value requires technology. Technology requires scientific knowledge and scientific knowledge requires adequate investment in education, coupled with a climate that favors and rewards innovation and entrepreneurship.

News article: Asia, Africa on way to new strategic partnership

Labels: Africa, China, Economics