Based on an extensive literature review, in-depth interviews, fieldwork, and anecdotal evidence, this text examines China's engagement with East Africa (notably Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda) and considers these relationships through the lens of history, diplomacy, education, trade, media, cultural exchanges, and infrastructure. It probes the sentiments of pessimism, optimism, and pragmatism to explore perceptions about China in East Africa Africa. China's ancient connection to the East African coast, as well as other incidents of contact in the past, are analyzed from the viewpoint of the deployment of Chinese soft power capital in current times.

The book notably examines the significant role China is playing in the construction of new infrastructure and housing throughout East Africa and addresses China's involvement in the natural resources sector and the political debate surrounding the construction of gas and oil pipelines, itsinvestment in the tourism sector, in the news media and information and communication technology sectors as well as in educational and cultural programs.