As Beijing Boosts Financial Support Amidst Growing Western Influence, What Are the Real Implications for Africa’s Future?

In a sweeping gesture that underscores China’s intensifying competition with Western powers for influence in Africa, President Xi Jinping has unveiled a $51 billion financial support package for the continent over the next three years. Speaking to a gathering of over 50 African leaders at this year’s Forum on Africa-China Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, Xi framed the pledge as a testament to the “best-ever” China-Africa relationship and a counter-narrative to the West’s colonial legacy.

The FOCAC, making its return after a hiatus due to the pandemic and China’s economic slowdown, saw Xi deliver a stark critique of Western interventions. “Modernization is an inalienable right of all countries,” Xi asserted. “But the Western approach to it has inflicted immense sufferings on developing countries.” This direct rebuke highlights China’s awareness of the increasing rivalry with Western nations over African partnerships.

Lucas Engel from Boston University’s Global China Initiative observes that Xi’s rhetoric represents a sharpened critique of Western influence. “China is clearly feeling the pressure as Western countries bolster their engagements in Africa,” Engel notes. “Xi’s remarks reflect a strategic positioning against the West’s growing foothold on the continent.”

FOCAC 2024’s theme, “Joining Hands to Promote Modernization,” saw China reaffirm its commitment to areas like green technology, agricultural modernization, trade, and education. Despite the pledge being an increase from the $40 billion promised in 2021, it falls short of the $60 billion earmarked in previous years.

The shift from grandiose infrastructure projects to more targeted initiatives, dubbed “small is beautiful,” seemed to characterize recent Chinese engagements. Yet, the announcement of a $1 billion upgrade to the TAZARA railway—connecting Zambia and Tanzania—surprised analysts. This move appears to be a strategic response to the U.S. G7-backed Lobito Corridor project, which aims to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth.

Paul Nantulya of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies suggests that China’s decision to engage in infrastructure projects again reflects its intent to remain a key player amidst Western efforts. “China doesn’t want to be sidelined as the U.S. makes significant infrastructure investments in Africa,” Nantulya remarks.

African leaders, too, made their voices heard. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, seeking to address trade imbalances, urged China to import more agricultural products and invest in local manufacturing. In response, Xi promised expanded market access, tariff exemptions for 33 countries, and support for 60,000 vocational training opportunities.

Kenyan President William Ruto also shifted focus from his prior criticisms of Chinese loans to request an extension of the Standard Gauge Railway. His pivot highlights the complex dynamics of debt and development in Africa, where Chinese investments continue to play a pivotal role despite mounting debt concerns.

The forum also saw pledges for military and security cooperation, with China committing $140 million in military assistance and training programs. Additionally, green energy projects were emphasized, with plans to launch 30 new clean energy initiatives across the continent.

Yunnan Chen from ODI Research notes a significant focus on technological and knowledge transfer. “The emphasis on training and technological cooperation aligns with longstanding African demands,” Chen observes, even as Chinese financial troubles and a decline in overall funding raise questions about the sustainability of these commitments.

As China navigates its strategic path amidst a competitive geopolitical landscape, the real impact of these pledges will unfold over the coming years. For now, Beijing’s grand promises and strategic moves set the stage for an evolving dynamic in Africa’s development and international relations.