Posted: March 22nd, 2023

Africans in Guangzhou

Castillo avers that the progressive increase of Africans in Guangzhou and diverse affiliations with others are leading to an involuntary rise of multiethnic agendas supporting African communities. The author notes that Africans have lately recognized China as a country with great potential. Contrary to the notion that Africans take jobs that pay meagerly, they exploit trade and entrepreneurship opportunities for personal and African-continental growth. Their subjection to a strange environment and the need to interact with locals have transformed their perception from citizens of a particular country to Africans in the diaspora.

The article emphasizes the relevance of support networks in place-making processes. The author considers procedures as forms of intersections between Africans and Chinese. Community and religious organizations have provided Africans with a platform that establishes favorable conducive relations with the Chinese. They engage in conflict resolutions and expose Africans who adamantly involve in illegal activities. Structures that promote a sense of belonging are evident, although the Chinese are reluctant to institute less stringent policies to assist Africans in acquiring citizenship. Africans have their space and can access catering services as they discuss issues affecting them. Established individuals operate from China and have transnational trading systems, while itinerants visit Guangzhou trying to compete with the Chinese in the African market. Although some Africans believe that China has many business opportunities, they are unsuccessful.

The article aims to change the African movement’s approach from being a migration to a feature of transnational mobility. Chinese do not discriminate against Africans, which has facilitated a smooth adaptability of the latter. Africans have redefined their imagination of home, self, and belonging. Accordingly, the author concludes that a possibility of Sino-Africans might emerge.