Chapter 302
Chapter 302: Study Group Continued
Wolfgang and the others were relieved to hear von der Leyen's assurances about the living conditions and healthcare in East Africa. They understood that a high level of investment had been made to ensure a healthy and safe environment for residents and immigrants.
Wolfgang then inquired about Dar es Salaam, questioning why East Africa was not attracting businesses to the largest city.
Von der Leyen explained that Dar es Salaam's historical significance as a Zanzibar stronghold on the mainland had led to its early development. However, after the establishment of the Kingdom of East Africa, Dar es Salaam lost its advantage. Mombasa, located to the north and with a closer proximity to Europe, became more attractive. Additionally, the economic structure in the western part of Dar es Salaam was simpler, primarily focused on food crops and not engaged in grain trade, unlike Mombasa.
Wolfgang recognized the importance of a strategic location for trade and transportation. He commented on the advantages of Mombasa's proximity to Europe, especially with the recent opening of the Suez Canal.
Von der Leyen offered to show the delegation around Mombasa for a more in-depth experience. Wolfgang accepted the offer.
As they toured Mombasa, they noticed that the open area near the port was bustling with activity, attracting foreign sailors and businessmen. There were taverns, casinos, shops, and even Japanese-style "entertainment" venues, staffed by Japanese personnel.
On the west side of the open area, the city looked more desolate. It primarily consisted of residential areas and administrative agencies, with fewer pedestrians on the streets.
Von der Leyen explained that most citizens worked in the eastern part of the city, resulting in emptier streets in the western part during certain times of the day.
Wolfgang then asked about the number of police officers in East Africa, as he had seen many during their tour.
Von der Leyen explained that maintaining law and order was essential in East Africa. The police department not only fought crime but also provided various services to citizens, such as guiding them, promoting traffic safety and laws, and improving their quality of life and sense of security.
The presence of many police officers was notable in East Africa, even for minor infractions. Ernst believed that this was a necessary means to cultivate the quality of East African residents, given the need for rapid adaptation to urban living. Punishments for various offenses served as a way to enforce good habits, ensuring that residents complied with city rules.
During the tour, they encountered a group of black laborers working on sewer maintenance.
Von der Leyen explained that East Africa used a certain number of black laborers on various projects, including those for investors. This helped reduce costs, and investors could pay a small fee to obtain the primary structure of the factory building they desired.
Wolfgang asked if these black laborers would also be used for factory workers.
Von der Leyen clarified that these laborers were considered a supplement to the local labor force. The main workforce for factories in East Africa would still consist of East African residents.
Wolfgang suggested that relying entirely on black slave labor would lower costs even further.
Von der Leyen explained East Africa's assimilation policy and the potential negative consequences of excessive reliance on slave labor. They aimed to avoid a situation like that in the United States, where tensions involving black people had arisen in the past.