
China’s top diplomat began his annual New Year tour of Africa on Sunday, marking 35 years of tradition aimed at quietly solidifying Beijing’s influence across the resource-rich continent as Europe’s presence declines and U.S. engagement falters.
While global powers grapple with domestic challenges and international conflicts—such as the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East—Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visits to Namibia, the Republic of Congo, Chad, and Nigeria underscore China’s consistent focus on Africa. Analysts highlight this contrast with the fluctuating approaches of Western nations, particularly as the U.S. prepares for the return of President-elect Donald Trump and European leaders face political distractions.
Wang’s week-long visit also aligns with China’s efforts to deepen financial ties with Africa, strike critical mineral deals, and expand markets for its exports. “The choice of countries often defies external logic,” said Eric Orlander, co-founder of the China-Global South Project, “but it signals China’s unwavering commitment to Africa in stark contrast to the U.S., UK, and EU.”
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning announced the visit on Friday, emphasizing its goal of fostering practical cooperation for sustained growth in China-Africa relations.
As China’s economy slows, Africa offers vital opportunities for state-owned infrastructure firms facing reduced domestic projects and provides a market for its electric vehicles and solar panels. Additionally, Africa’s 50-plus votes at the United Nations bolster Beijing’s ambitions to reshape multilateral institutions and global norms to align with its interests, particularly on issues like human rights.
By comparison, U.S. President Joe Biden has visited sub-Saharan Africa only once during his presidency, a stark contrast to China’s prioritization of the continent. “China has become central to Africa’s policy landscape,” said Hannah Ryder, founder of Development Reimagined, noting Beijing’s influence on initiatives such as manufacturing and mass education.
Focus on Security and Strategic Partnerships
Wang’s visit to the Republic of Congo—co-chair of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) this year—reinforces Beijing’s commitment to implementing pledges from last year’s FOCAC summit, including $51 billion in financial assistance. China is also positioning itself as a key player in regional security, as highlighted by Wang’s visit to Chad. This follows France’s withdrawal of troops from Chad after its government ended a longstanding defense pact, leaving a vacuum in the fight against regional militants.
“China has emerged as a stable and reliable partner for new military regimes in the Sahel and West Africa,” said Orlander. While the U.S. and France view this growing presence as controversial, many African leaders welcome China’s consistent engagement.
As Beijing deepens its ties with Africa, its blend of financial investment, infrastructure support, and strategic diplomacy continues to shape the continent’s political and economic future, positioning China as a dominant partner in Africa’s development.
