China and Africa: a match made in heaven or a most unholy alliance?

Hello folks, it's been a while so I hope you are all keeping well. Here in the UK it's been an interesting few weeks with what has been a very revealing election campaign followed by a coalition government that is slowly trying to find its feet amidst the discontent in a nation that has lost faith in its politicians...
Ok let's get on with today's matter at hand. Less than 2months ago, I watched a discussion forum with some African leaders/thinkers including Desmond Tutu on the issue of China as the new "saviour/partner" in African development. I watched with a growing sense of irritation how some on this particular panel were applauding the recent increased Chinese investment in Africa as if the wheel has just been re-invented. As if the Chinese are investing in Africa out of the goodness of their hearts. As if inarguably one of the most rapidly expanding economies in the world has suddenly developed philanthropic tendencies. The basis of this optimism is the supposed freedom from aid-dependency that the wave of investments will give to Africa.
I'm sure that when influential Western-based TNCs decided to started business in Africa they must have sold themselves as the best things since sliced bread; all we have to do is look at the results of their exploitation aided by corruption in the African corridors of power to see that this has nothing to do with progressive development. In what way is China expected to be any different especially if we haven't put our own house in order?
Until we address macro-economic failures, non-transparent governance and human rights violations amongst other major issues,the average African is just going to be open to more exploitation and deprivation on a daily basis.
It will be foolhardy of me to suggest that Africa does not need foreign direct investment - that is the only way forward if we're to stop begging for alms for the next few generations. However,African leaders have to put functioning systems in place to ensure that the benefits of investment and progress are spread more equitably. Trust me, I really do not live in utopia. I happen to think that starting wiith little but siginificant steps, this can actually be a reality. One prime example will be the issue of tax avoidance on the part of TNCs. But then you'll argue that even if corporation tax revenue is received, the funds will only go the way of old - into the pockets of a few politicians...See, we're back to the same point, charity they say though begins at home..

On a more sombre note though,with the Chinese the issue of human rights violations trails them with dogged persistence. A government that routinely subjugates the welfare of its own people will not be predisposed to cater for the welfare of foreigners or would it?

I'll leave you folks with that question in mind whilst I await your comments. Until the next time, keep the discussions going; let's not give up on Africa. As the focus of the world over the next few weeks of the World Cup, let's continue to celebrate our achievements whilst continuing the pursuit of excellence. Failure only becomes a reality when we give up trying..............