China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has kicked off his annual New Year tour of Africa, a tradition spanning 35 years, to strengthen Beijing’s influence across the resource-rich continent as Western powers divert attention to other global challenges.
Wang will visit Namibia, the Republic of Congo, Chad, and Nigeria this week, emphasizing China’s steady engagement with Africa. Analysts note this contrasts with the sporadic focus from the United States and European Union, which remain preoccupied with conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as domestic issues.
China, the world’s second-largest economy, continues to ramp up financial support for Africa, targeting partnerships in critical minerals, infrastructure development, and markets for its growing electric vehicle and solar panel industries. Beijing’s strategic consistency in Africa has been key to maintaining strong ties, said Eric Orlander, co-founder of the China-Global South Project.
“This tour resonates in Africa as a reminder of China’s commitment, unlike the uneven approaches of the U.S., UK, and EU,” Orlander added.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reinforced this sentiment, stating, “Africa is not a forgotten continent but a land of vitality and development potential.”
Strategic Goals: Economy, Diplomacy, and Security
China’s engagement comes at a crucial time as its domestic economy slows, pushing its state-owned enterprises to seek overseas projects. Africa also plays a pivotal role in Beijing’s efforts to shape global norms and multilateral institutions, with the continent’s 50-plus votes at the UN serving as a significant lever.
Beijing’s support for Africa extends beyond economics. The Republic of Congo, a key stop on Wang’s tour, is set to co-chair the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), where China pledged $51 billion in financial aid during the last summit. Additionally, Chad’s inclusion in the itinerary highlights China’s growing influence in regional security as France reduces its military footprint in the Sahel.
China’s steady ties have gained traction with Africa’s military-led governments, contrasting with the West’s diminishing influence. “China is viewed as a stable partner for the new military juntas in the Sahel,” Orlander noted.
The Broader Picture
Unlike the limited engagement of U.S. President Joe Biden, whose sole sub-Saharan visit was to Angola, China prioritizes Africa in its diplomatic calendar. Beijing’s track record of supporting manufacturing, education, and infrastructure is becoming an election talking point for African Union candidates ahead of February’s vote for commission chair.
“China’s central role in Africa is undeniable, both as an actor and as an inspiration,” said Hannah Ryder, founder of Development Reimagined, an African-owned consultancy.
China’s consistent and multifaceted approach positions it as a key player in Africa’s economic and geopolitical landscape, marking a sharp contrast with the West’s fragmented strategies.