The Centre for Chinese Studies published on 15 May 2017 a commentary titled "The African Link in China's OBOR Initiative" by Mandira Bagwandeen, independent researcher.
The author concludes that only African countries strategic to One Belt One Road (OBOR), especially those vital for establishing and securing trade links, will be prioritized by China. Northeast and East African countries imperative to the Maritime Silk Road are likely to benefit the most from OBOR.