China Tops Investment in Zimbabwe

China has become the leading source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Zimbabwe, surpassing Western nations, according to a new study by the Public Policy and Research Institute of Zimbabwe (PPRIZ). However, the research also raises concerns about potential violations of domestic laws and labour rights by Chinese investors, allegedly protected by influential Zimbabwean officials.

Presenting his findings in a paper titled “Zimbabwe mapping report: China-Zimbabwe Relations under the Zimbabwe Multi-stakeholder reference group engagement programme,” PPRIZ Research Fellow Ronald Chipaike acknowledged the mixed perceptions regarding China’s increasing investment dominance in Zimbabwe.

“There are mixed feelings about China’s intentions,” Chipaike stated. “Some believe China seeks to colonize not only Zimbabwe but Africa as a whole. Others view them as an ‘all-weather friend’ aiding African nations escape neo-colonialism and poverty.”

Chipaike highlighted China’s current position as the primary source of both FDI and infrastructure development finance for Zimbabwe. He cautioned that this deepening relationship might negatively impact democracy and human rights.

“Both Zanu PF and the Chinese Communist Party endorse authoritarian governance,” Chipaike explained. “Civil society plays a crucial role in exposing the potential downsides of Chinese investments and their impact on Zimbabwean communities.”

Zimbabwe and China have a long-standing relationship dating back to the liberation struggle. China supported Zanu PF’s Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (Zanla) during that period, while the Soviet Union backed PF Zapu’s Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (Zipra).

Chipaike further noted that China was the first nation to establish diplomatic ties with Zimbabwe after independence in 1980. The then-Prime Minister, Robert Mugabe, sent his deputy, Simon Muzenda, to China to express gratitude for their support.