By Godfrey Olukya 2-4-2013
The recent visit of Chinese president, Xi Jinping to several African countries has encouraged many African businessmen to start trading in goods made in China.
Towards the end of last month, Jinping visited South Africa, Republic of Congo and Tanzania. Between March 26th to 27th he attended the fifth leaders summit of BRICS countries. The countries in BRICS include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
‘His visit has given us confidence to continue trading with his country’. Said South African trader, Benja Mudi.’ When the head of state of such a powerful country visits Africa and woos traders, it shows that his country is ready to assist Africa to grow economically.
Congolese businessman, Mwana wa Benda said, ‘I will start traveling to China to carry out trade activities after the Chinese president visited my country and assured us of support.’
Tanzanian trader, Keneddy Morobo said, ‘China is soon becoming the country which trades most with Africa countries. Wherever I go in Africa, I find that most of items used there are imported from china. Right from a match box, to spades, hoes buses, tractors, electronics and machinery.’
Over the weekend Jinping arrived in Beijing after visiting Russia, Tanzania, South Africa and the Republic of Congo.
Xi’s entourage, included his wife Peng Liyuan, Wang Huning, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Policy Research Office of the Central Committee and other government officials.
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