At first glance , the chapter titles of Prof Ian Taylors latest book China's New Role in Africa indicate a focus on the most topical and debated subjects within the field of Sino-Africa engagement including China's engagement in Africa's energy and manufacturing sector, human rights, arms trade and peacekeeping on the continent. Of particular importance is the introductory chapter emphasizing the need to determine the concepts of generalised terms such as "China", "Africa" and "China-Africa relations". This first chapter puts the engagement in context, in terms of political and economic relations, as well as China's development assistance to Africa but more importantly it puts the subsequent chapters in perspective. It makes the reader aware of the nuances involved in researching the current relations between China and Africa, and points to the need to understand the many complexities involved in the often generalised debates surrounding China's activities in Africa.

A number of points are constantly reinforced and become clear throughout the book. The chapters explain the complexities and evolving engagement between various Chinese and African actors. Identifying activities of Chinese government and privateengagement including China's policy responses resulting from this engagement shows the evolving nature of the relationship, and the importance of understanding the challenges of the state in Africa as well as the role it has, and will, play in the future development of relations between the two sides. In particular this is brought forward within the context of China's non-interference policy in Africa.

The activities of various Chinese and African stakeholders in this engagement result in the misinterpretationof these activities as well as the role and responsibilities of government in this relationship. In particular, the responsibilities of African governments and the indivisible nature of public and private sectors in Africa are highlighted as keys to understanding the process in the African context. The multi-faceted relationship in the chapter three, focusing on the textile manufacturing sector in Nigeria and South Africa, explains that a comprehensive understanding of the role of domestic policy for example is needed.

The author makes clear the intention to provide a "balanced appraisal of China's engagement in Africa" (pg 3) while focusing on many of the areas that are often sensationalised in media. As noted by the author, "China" is often subjected to the blame game resulting from simplified and often superficial reports of the effects of Chinese actors in Africa. Instead, the author provides an assessment of various aspects of Chinese engagement with Africa based on extensive field research, interviews and literature to provide a rich and comprehensive understanding of this engagement.

An interesting point is noted in the concluding chapter where the author states that "civil society must play a crucial role in the new engagement with China" (pg 183). This is perhaps of particular relevance within the evolving relationship betweenChinese and African actors and a topic that will warrant further detailed attention.

The book is a valuable source of information for anyone seeking a better understanding of the complexities of Chinese activities on the continent and an excellent contribution to the growing body of literature on this subject.

The article first appeared in Fahamu's Emerging Powers in Africa newsletter

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