The Growing Influence Of India Over China In Africa

India-West News Desk

A recent opinion piece for Newsweek discussing the evolving power dynamics in Africa, says China’s influence is waning and India is stepping in to assert itself. Gordon G. Chang, an author and commentator, highlighted that Africa, traditionally dominated by external powers like Europe, Russia, the U.S., and China, is now entering a period where it may determine its own future.

Chang, in his piece, ‘Is China Losing Africa To India?’ noted that China had long been a dominant player in Africa, with its engagement dating back to the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Mao Zedong had sought Africa’s support in his struggle against the Soviet Union and for leadership in the global Communist movement. Today, China remains Africa’s largest bilateral trade partner, top creditor, and biggest investor.

However, Chang observed that China’s position is weakening, driven by severe economic challenges. The country’s growth had stalled, and its debt load had become a major concern. Chang explained that China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which aimed to create a global network of infrastructure, was running out of steam as a result of economic struggles. A key example of this was the stalled rail project connecting Kenya’s Mombasa to Uganda, where Chinese financing had dried up, leaving the project incomplete.

In contrast, India has made significant strides in strengthening its ties with Africa. Chang pointed out India’s leadership role in the G-20 and its efforts to bring the African Union into the fold, which were well-received by African countries seeking alternatives to both China and the West.

However, Chang observed that India’s influence remains largely concentrated in peripheral areas like Indian Ocean island states such as Seychelles and Mauritius. Despite this, India’s approach, which focuses on capacity-building and technology transfer, contrasts with China’s extractive model.

Chang quoted India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who, at the Japan-India-Africa Business Forum, critiqued China’s “exploitative practices” in Africa, a comment that triggered a defensive response from China’s Global Times.

Chang concluded by emphasizing that Africa is poised for rapid growth, making it a key battleground for influence between China and India. As the region enters a new phase of economic development, both countries understand the high stakes involved in shaping its future.

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