China's commitment to responsible investment in Africa: Ambassador Ding warns nationals in Zimbabwe
China’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Ding Zhou, has called on Chinese nationals and businesses operating in Zimbabwe to strictly comply with the country’s laws, resolve disputes through proper legal channels, and engage responsibly with local communities.
In a formal advisory titled “Important Notice to Chinese Nationals: A Reminder on Investment and Business Operations in Zimbabwe,” the ambassador outlined eight principles covering legal compliance, security, firearms control, community engagement, environmental responsibility, and anti-corruption measures.
The advisory, released through the Chinese Embassy in Harare, comes amid growing concern following the fatal shooting of a villager at a Chinese-owned mine in a small town of Mutoko, reportedly on suspicion of attempted theft. The incident has reignited social media debate over the conduct of some foreign investors in Africa, particularly within the mining sector.
“Compliance with Zimbabwean laws and regulations is the non-negotiable foundation of all operations,” Ambassador Ding said. “All disputes must be resolved through proper legal channels.”
While the ambassador’s notice does not reference specific incidents, its focus on firearm control and adherence to Zimbabwe’s laws appears aimed at addressing growing concerns over business practices at some foreign-owned mines.
Ding warned that the illegal possession of firearms is strictly prohibited and urged that even authorized weapons must be handled with “the highest level of control.” He also advised Chinese nationals to seek police assistance in cases of theft or robbery rather than resorting to self-defence or confrontation.
Beyond legal compliance, the ambassador urged investors to act as partners in Zimbabwe’s development by engaging respectfully with local communities, upholding fair labour practices, and observing environmental standards.
“Corporate social responsibility initiatives are strongly encouraged as visible expressions of goodwill,” he said, adding that such engagement strengthens mutual trust and promotes “Zimbabwe’s broader economic development and social progress.”
He also reminded Chinese nationals that bribery and corruption are crimes under both Chinese and Zimbabwean law. “Under no circumstances should bribes be offered, accepted, or solicited,” Ding said, urging anyone facing extortion or abuse of power to report it to the Zimbabwe Republic Police or the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.
The Chinese Embassy in Harare further encouraged investors to register their operations with the mission to facilitate consular protection and oversight.
China has been Africa’s largest trading partner for more than a decade, with bilateral trade surpassing US$280 billion in 2023, according to Chinese customs data. The partnership has reshaped Africa’s infrastructure landscape — from railways in Kenya and Nigeria to mining and energy projects across southern Africa.
Zimbabwe is a key part of this network, with Chinese companies heavily involved in lithium mining, steel production, and infrastructure development.
South Africa is also China’s largest trading partner on the continent and a member of the BRICS bloc alongside China, Russia, India, and Brazil — a grouping that has championed closer South–South economic cooperation.
In South Africa, China’s engagement spans manufacturing, energy, and technology, creating thousands of jobs but also attracting scrutiny over fair labour standards, environmental impact, and trade imbalances. Similar debates have unfolded across Africa, where communities and civil society organizations have increasingly called for more transparency and accountability from both governments and investors.
Ding’s statement in Harare reflects a broader diplomatic effort by Beijing to project responsible global citizenship and address perceptions that some Chinese investors act with impunity in host countries. Analysts say such advisories also signal a growing awareness in Beijing that its reputation in Africa depends on the conduct of its nationals on the ground.
Civil society organizations, including Zimbabwe’s Centre for Natural Resources Governance (CNRG), have been critical of Chinese companies operating in Zimbabwe, accusing the Asian investors of issues such as forced displacement, environmental damage, and poor labor conditions.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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