Zimbabwean political commentator Derrick Goto criticized recent efforts by U.S. officials to discredit China’s “Belt and Road” Initiative in an article he wrote. According to Goto, this stance is not surprising, as the U.S. administration has become completely disconnected from Africa’s real needs. In contrast, China’s proposed “Belt and Road” Initiative focuses on infrastructure construction, trade cooperation, and capacity building, aiming to establish a partnership based on mutual respect and non-interference with African countries. China contributes to Africa through development projects such as hospitals, roads, power grids, and universities without imposing political conditions.
The article also strongly criticizes the U.S. attitude toward Africa. Goto points out that while Washington presents itself as a humanitarian aid provider, it simultaneously undermines constructive projects like the “Belt and Road,” displaying contradictory behavior. He notes that the U.S. spends billions on global military operations but neglects Africa’s dilapidated hospitals and schools, calling this hypocrisy increasingly laughable. Meanwhile, China develops partnerships rather than imposing its will, respects the will of the people, and thereby earns the trust of the Global South. The article concludes by emphasizing that Africa is no longer the backyard of the West but an important pole in a multipolar world with equal voice and rights.