New Delhi, Oct 22 (NationPress) Recent disturbances in various African nations have brought to light the security, political, and community-relations risks that some Chinese enterprises encounter while operating across the continent. China's global engagement — primarily focused on infrastructure financing and trade as part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) — has not only broadened market access but also facilitated the construction of roads, railways, and energy projects, according to a recent report.

However, incidents of looting, arson, and targeted crime in multiple African nations have triggered reviews of security protocols, compliance, and local partnerships, as noted in an article from Kenya’s Capital News.

Experts point out that such economic diplomacy can escalate tensions, especially in communities that feel benefits are unequally distributed or where economic shocks and political disputes are already prevalent.

In Madagascar, unrest over power outages and service delivery in Antananarivo spiraled into rioting and property damage, affecting Chinese-owned businesses. Authorities imposed a curfew and announced cabinet reshuffles as the protests persisted, according to the article.

In Angola, subsidy reforms and fuel price hikes coincided with the most violent unrest in years; casualties and arrests were reported alongside the looting of retail establishments, including those owned by Chinese nationals. Similarly, Mozambique experienced protests and mass arrests following post-election disputes, with various businesses facing arson and looting incidents, as the article states.

Beyond public disorder, concerns regarding governance and environmental issues have drawn attention. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, officials and watchdogs flagged illegal or irregular mining activities involving several foreign operators, including some with links to China. Enforcement actions, ranging from arrests to license reviews, reflect broader efforts to formalize the sector, the article notes.

It also emphasizes that various governments have taken steps to deter unlawful activities surrounding foreign-linked enterprises. Ghana has tightened visa regulations for Chinese nationals amidst a broader crackdown on illegal small-scale gold mining, citing pollution and community impacts.

In Nigeria, courts have issued convictions in cybercrime cases involving foreign nationals, and local regulators have temporarily shut down some businesses, including Chinese-owned ones, after clashes with enforcement officers during inspections. These actions occur alongside routine collaborations between Chinese missions and host authorities on compliance and business continuity.

Security incidents have further highlighted the risks associated with operating in high-threat environments. A Chinese-owned fishing vessel was hijacked off Somalia, but the crew was eventually reported safe. Earlier, nine Chinese workers were killed in an attack on a gold mine in the Central African Republic. Such incidents have led Chinese officials to demand accountability and encourage companies to enhance risk assessments, avoid political entanglements — particularly during elections — and improve staff safety measures, the article concludes.