Labour Agency, Politics, and Future of Africa–China Engagements

Africa–China relations have deepened over the past two decades, marked by significant public health, development, and diplomatic cooperation. While Africa benefits from infrastructure and financial support, China secures resources and boosts its image. However, the role of African citizens in shaping these engagements remains underexplored. This article examines the Bui Hydro-Dam (Bui Dam) labour agency, focusing on Ghanaian employees’ interactions with their Chinese employers. The article reveals how historical, sociopolitical, and institutional contexts shape labour agency, driving state-building towards more balanced partnerships. The findings stress autonomy, strong governance, and institutional resilience as critical determinants of equitable and sustainable future Africa–China relations.