Huawei's ICT Investments in Africa

Following a comprehensive description of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policies implemented by Huawei—the leading multinational Chinese information and telecommunications brand—within the framework of its business activities in Africa, this chapter reflects on the possible implications of the company's presence in Africa for the continent's development. Having recently undergone unprecedented socio-economic transformation, China is considered one of the forerunners in the evolution towards knowledge society. At the same time, it is often accused of pursuing a “new colonialism” in Africa. This chapter seeks to find out if there are possibly also any positive aspects of its intensified interest – in particular, if and to what extent Huawei shares with Africa China's experience of the emergence of advanced ICT (Information and Communications Technology) and transition towards the knowledge society.