THE ECONOMIC STRANGLEHOLD OF CHINA ON ZIMBABWE: A TALE OF EXPLOITATION AND MOCKERY

In an era where the world is increasingly interconnected and economies are interdependent, the case of Zimbabwe presents a stark contrast. It is a narrative dominated by foreign influence, exploitation, and a glaring disregard for local welfare. Central to this narrative is China’s burgeoning economic dominance in Zimbabwe, a situation that has raised significant concerns among observers and citizens alike.

China, with its expansive economic footprint, has become a ubiquitous presence in Zimbabwe, involved in a range of activities from vaccine sales to the construction of power plants. It has even reached the controversial extent of exploiting local coal reserves at the expense of violating local graves, a move that speaks volumes about the extent of its influence. Furthermore, the Chinese involvement in the production of tiles and bricks, characterized by exploited labor and a lack of environmental consideration, underscores a broader issue. This issue is not merely about economic activities but about the erosion of sovereignty and the exploitation of resources without due regard for the local environment or the well-being of the people.

The ruling party, Zanu PF, seems to have turned a blind eye to these concerns, focusing instead on maintaining its grip on power. Its recent realization that certain subsectors ought to be reserved for Zimbabweans comes off as a mere mockery of the suffering endured by the populace. This is not a genuine attempt at reform but a strategic move to appease the electorate ahead of elections. The party’s prolonged hold on power, characterized by centralization and impunity, has stifled any real economic development or empowerment of the local populace.

The classification of certain sectors as reserved for Zimbabweans is, in reality, a relegation to mediocrity. Assigning minimal wage jobs and low-income sole proprietorships to the local populace does not address the underlying issues of economic empowerment or development. It fails to recognize the potential for high-level technology, research, and innovation that could truly transform the economy and liberate it from its current state of dependency and exploitation.

The economic policies and classifications touted by Zanu PF are a testament to a lack of vision and a failure to capitalize on the country’s human and natural resources. Instead of fostering an environment conducive to growth and innovation, they have relegated the economy to a state of mediocrity, where the most lucrative opportunities are reserved for foreign entities, primarily China. This not only undermines the potential for economic development but also solidifies a colonial-like dependency that benefits a foreign power at the expense of local prosperity.

The contrast with the democratic and progressive era supervised by the West could not be starker. During this period, there was a concerted effort towards inclusivity and broad-based economic participation. Unlike the current regime’s policies, which prioritize foreign interests and a select few, the opposition’s approach was centered on equality, participation, and the empowerment of all Zimbabweans.

As the 2023 elections approach, the sudden classification of reserved economic subsectors for Zimbabweans by Zanu PF raises concerns about the genuine intent behind these policies. Given the party’s track record, there is little reason to believe that these sectors will be distributed equitably or without political bias. This not only perpetuates economic disparities but also undermines the principle of inclusivity and fairness in economic opportunities.

The solution lies not in the superficial classification of economic subsectors but in comprehensive reforms that address the root causes of economic stagnation and dependency. Zanu PF needs to pave the way for a transition that prioritizes the welfare of all Zimbabweans, fostering an environment where innovation, participation, and genuine economic empowerment are at the forefront. Only then can Zimbabwe hope to break free from the economic stranglehold that has stifled its development and prosperity.