Chinese Involvement in Mozambique: Sino-Mozambican Relations Understood through the Perspectives of Farmers in Boane and Xai-Xai

Abstract

Sino-African relationships have become increasingly important for African development. Chinese investments and aid have provided an alternative to the development model presented by traditional Western partners. One African country where Chinese involvement has become significant is Mozambique. The aim of this study is to understand how farmers in the Mozambican towns of Boane and Xai-Xai perceive Sino-Mozambican relations and how Chinese investments have had an impact on the farmers' lives. This is studied within the theoretical framework of sustainable development. The study contributes to the existing field of research with local perspectives. In order to highlight local perspectives, qualitative interviews with farmers in Boane and Xai-Xai have been conducted. The results show how the farmers have been very differently affected by the Chinese investments and that their perceptions of Sino-Mozambican relations are divided. It is argued that access to land, productive potential and ability to meet basic needs are the themes that are most central for shaping the farmers' perceptions of Sino-Mozambican relations. It is also argued that the different outcomes for the farmers are not determined by differences in social or political power among the farmers, but by other factors, such as Chinese motives and strategies.