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Great walls over African rivers: Chinese engagement in African hydropower projects

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  • Deborah Brautigam
  • Jyhjong Hwang

Abstract

Recent acceleration of Chinese engagement in African hydropower is attracting increasing attention and concern. Yet there is scant research and little reliable data on this engagement. This article analyses Chinese hydropower engagement based on a new, verified dataset. We examined over 100 projects reported by the media and lists compiled by other organizations, amassing case studies for each project using desk research, interviews and field visits. We demonstrate that Chinese engagement in African hydropower is often overestimated in both numbers and value. Further, misunderstanding and myths abound regarding Chinese financing and construction practices. This evidence‐based understanding provides a firmer foundation for advocacy, research and efforts by other companies and funding agencies to co‐operate with Chinese actors in this controversial sector.

Suggested Citation

  • Deborah Brautigam & Jyhjong Hwang, 2019. "Great walls over African rivers: Chinese engagement in African hydropower projects," Development Policy Review, Overseas Development Institute, vol. 37(3), pages 313-330, May.
  • Handle: RePEc:bla:devpol:v:37:y:2019:i:3:p:313-330
    DOI: 10.1111/dpr.12350
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    Cited by:

    1. Taitiya Kenneth Yuguda & Sunday Adiyoh Imanche & Tian Ze & Tosin Yinka Akintunde & Bobby Shekarau Luka, 2023. "Hydropower development, policy and partnership in the 21st century: A China-Nigeria outlook," Energy & Environment, , vol. 34(4), pages 1170-1204, June.
    2. George Ofosu & David Sarpong, 2022. "The evolving perspectives on the Chinese labour regime in Africa," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 43(4), pages 1747-1766, November.
    3. Lema, Rasmus & Bhamidipati, Padmasai Lakshmi & Gregersen, Cecilia & Hansen, Ulrich Elmer & Kirchherr, Julian, 2021. "China’s investments in renewable energy in Africa: Creating co-benefits or just cashing-in?," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 141(C).
    4. Tom Ogwang & Frank Vanclay, 2021. "Resource-Financed Infrastructure: Thoughts on Four Chinese-Financed Projects in Uganda," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(6), pages 1-22, March.

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