ABSTRACT
Globalisation is seen as an ‘important channel that would enable developing countries to access new markets and advanced technologies and, ultimately, experience higher economic growth. However, casual observation of cross country experiences suggests that globalisation may lead to further marginalisation of certain groups within the same country. In particular, it is argued that women in developing countries may be at a disadvantage … ’ (Boko, Baliamoune-Luz and Kimuna, 2005, p. 1). Thus, given that China is a major trade partner for many African countries, we seek to use evidence to understand the nature and varied impact of Chinese investments in Africa as well as the implications for women. Our reflection, is predicated on the premise that policy based on evidence is most likely to give policymakers confidence in the decisions that they take. Campbell, Benita, Coates, Davies and Penn, (2007) indicate that policies based on evidence are likely to be better informed, more effective and less expensive than policies formulated through ordinary time constrained and politically constrained processes without evidence input.
