THE BENEFITS AND THREATS OF THE BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE PROJECTS TO AFRICA: AN EXPERIENCE FROM BAGAMOYO PORT INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT IN TANZANIA

Abstract

The study adopted a desk-based approach to empirically examine the benefits and threats of the Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI) projects to Africa, with a particular focus on Bagamoyo Port Infrastructure Development in the United Republic of Tanzania. The data were collected by reviewing relevant and credible documents and analyzing them qualitatively using a thematic analysis. The study findings reveal that BRI plays a significant role in improving Tanzania's economy, particularly by providing financing and material support for mega-infrastructure projects (e.g., roads, railroads, ports, energy pipelines, and power grids), as well as connectivity and internet access. However, it is associated with Tanzania's growing external debt burden, as the project's contract terms do not guarantee mutual benefits for Tanzania and China. The study recommends revisiting the project's terms to ensure mutual benefits for Tanzania and other African countries, which is essential for the sustainability of their socio-economic development and the smooth implementation of projects.