China’s Expanding Influence in Africa: From Diplomacy to Defense

By Mary Alorh

China’s foreign policy in Africa has long been defined by the principle of non-interference – a strategic approach that emphasizes respect for national sovereignty and domestic policies. This stance has significantly contributed to China’s widespread acceptance across the continent, particularly when contrasted with the often-prescriptive engagement styles of Western powers.

For many African nations, maintaining autonomy while pursuing development partnerships has been a top priority. China’s diplomatic model has allowed countries to safeguard their independence while advancing economic and infrastructural goals through mutually beneficial cooperation.

This foundational policy of non-interference has also shaped the broader evolution of China’s foreign strategy in Africa. Nowhere is this more evident than in the growing influence of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has found fertile ground on a continent eager for large-scale infrastructure investment.

Aligned with Africa’s developmental aspirations, the BRI has become a cornerstone of China’s soft and hard power projection in the region.

Since its launch in 2013, the BRI has seen over US$700 billion in cumulative investments across participating African countries by 2023. These economic commitments have not only strengthened trade and infrastructure ties but have also deepened China’s defense relationships across the continent.

Expanding Military Footprint: Training, Exercises, and Arms Sales

China’s military engagement in Africa has expanded notably in recent years. In a high-profile move, China hosted young military officers from more than 40 countries at its premier military academy, offering them direct exposure to Chinese defense technologies and operational philosophies.

Such initiatives underscore Beijing’s growing role as a key security partner in Africa.

The visibility of China’s military presence is increasing across the continent, with its defense equipment – ranging from armored vehicles to surveillance systems – now in active use in multiple regions. Importantly, China has capitalized on relatively low international media scrutiny in parts of Africa to quietly expand its strategic footprint.

In mid-2024, China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) conducted joint military exercises with Mozambique and Tanzania under the banner “Peace Unity – 2024.” The drills involved small arms, artillery, drones, and reconnaissance units – an indication of the depth and modernization of China’s military capabilities being shared abroad.

China’s long-term engagement in Africa traces back to the early 2000s, when it launched the “Go Out” or “Go Global” initiative. Designed to empower state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to expand internationally, this policy laid the groundwork for deeper economic integration between China and African markets. It also played a pivotal role in shaping and strengthening the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which continues to serve as a platform for bilateral collaboration.

China’s military activities have intensified over the past decade. In 2018 alone, the PLA conducted six separate military exercises in countries including Cameroon, Ghana, Gabon, South Africa, and Nigeria – marking a clear shift toward a more assertive defense posture.

Today, more than 20 sub-Saharan African nations reportedly receive significant arms supplies from China. Notably, an estimated seven out of ten African armies operate Chinese-made armored vehicles, highlighting the extent of Beijing’s defense penetration.

Why China’s Military Outreach Succeeds in Africa

One factor contributing to China’s success in expanding its military influence is the absence of restrictive export controls such as the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). This allows China to offer more flexible and accessible arms deals, making it an attractive partner for many African governments.

As China continues to pursue its ambitions on the global stage, military and defense agreements are becoming central to its geopolitical strategy. With Africa playing a critical role in this vision, China’s presence – both economic and military – is poised to grow further in the coming years.

Mary Alorh is Director of Administration at DefSEC Analytics Africa Ltd., and is an expert in Gender, Youth, and Peace & Security initiatives in West Africa.