China’s Long Game in Africa
Context:
In 2022, China took a bold step in shaping Africa’s political future by establishing the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Leadership School in Tanzania.
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- Costing an estimated $40 million, the institution aims to train Africa’s future political leaders, aligning them with governance principles rooted in the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) ideology.
Fostering Historical Ties
- The school’s first cohort of 120 officials hailed from countries with long-standing relationships with China, including South Africa, Mozambique, Angola, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania.
- These nations, governed by liberation parties born from anti-colonial struggles, are also part of the Former Liberation Movements of Southern Africa coalition.
- By targeting these nations, China aims to deepen its influence and fortify relationships with their policymakers.
- This leadership school represents a platform for Africa’s ruling liberation parties to enhance their governance capabilities through Chinese-provided educational resources.
- It exemplifies China’s broader strategy to promote a governance model centered on the primacy of the ruling party and state control.
Diplomacy as a Tool of Influence
- Global influence often stems from the ability to mediate conflicts and foster international dialogue.
- Historically, the United States has played a dominant role in this space.
- However, China is increasingly stepping into the role of global mediator, as seen in its involvement in the Saudi Arabia-Iran and Niger-Benin disputes.
- By positioning itself as a mediator, China not only enhances its global image but also strengthens its foothold in Africa, a continent of 55 nations with substantial sway in international forums.
- Beijing recognises the importance of African support in reshaping the global order, often complementing and occasionally countering the Western-led system.
A History of Engagement
- During Africa’s independence movements, Beijing supported military and governance efforts while investing in infrastructure and industrial projects to bolster the continent’s economies.
- These historical ties remain a cornerstone of China’s expanding influence in Africa.
- Annual “study tours” for African officials, comprising lectures, cultural exchanges, and visits to Chinese provinces, have been a key part of China’s public diplomacy.
Expanding Political Education
- With the Nyerere Leadership School, China has expanded its influence to a new level, targeting Africa’s political elites through formal training programs.
- This move aligns with China’s admission during the 8th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in 2021 that it maintains ties with over 100 political parties across 51 African nations.
- Beyond Tanzania, other nations are following suit. Kenya has expressed interest in establishing a leadership school modeled on the CCP’s Central Party School.
- China’s funding extends to refurbishing existing institutions, such as Zimbabwe’s Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology.
- These initiatives seek to propagate governance models emphasising stability and centralisation.
India and Africa
India’s engagement with Africa has significantly strengthened over the years, positioning India as Africa’s third-largest trading partner after the European Union and China. As of 2023-24, trade between India and Africa reached approximately USD 83 billion, with Indian exports valued at USD 45 billion and imports at USD 38 billion. India’s investments in Africa have also grown, amounting to around USD 75 billion, with plans to increase this to USD 150 billion by 2030. Key sectors of cooperation include infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and healthcare, facilitated by initiatives such as the India-Africa Forum Summit and concessional lines of credit. The establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) further enhances trade opportunities, allowing India to leverage lower tariffs and improve regional connectivity.
Strategic Investments in Governance and Infrastructure
- China’s influence in Africa extends beyond political schools.
- It is accompanied by significant investments in infrastructure.
- For instance, China funded Kenya’s new foreign ministry headquarters as the two nations celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations.
- Such projects symbolise the intertwining of diplomatic relationships with developmental initiatives.
The Long Game in Africa
- China’s approach to Africa is grounded in decades of patient diplomacy.
- The Nyerere Leadership School is merely one part of its comprehensive strategy to embed itself deeply within Africa’s political structures.
- Recognising the potential for regime changes, China has strategically cultivated relationships with opposition parties to maintain its influence during political transitions.
China’s engagement in Africa is not solely about economic investments or military might. It extends to the subtle art of diplomacy and shaping governance ideologies. By embedding itself within Africa’s political and institutional frameworks, China is ensuring its long-term influence over the continent’s governance systems.
