China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has gained significant traction in Africa since its launch in 2013, with 53 African nations participating in varying degrees. In 2023, African countries received $21.7 billion in BRI deals, including investments in ports, railways and renewable energy.
As China shifts BRI towards smaller, greener and less risky projects, Africa will have much to gain from the programme. But countries need to be more proactive in aligning the potential benefits with their own strategic priorities, and galvanising efforts to strengthen the governance of BRI. September’s Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is an opportunity for Africa to enhance its agency.
China will use FOCAC to deepen BRI cooperation, with discussions focusing on concessional development finance, infrastructure and trade. The shift from the Dakar Action Plan (2022-2024) to a new framework has already sparked debate about its potential impact on Africa. Originally conceived to emulate the ancient Silk Road trade routes, the BRI has grown significantly.
It now involves 151 countries spanning Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America. It includes the Digital Silk Road and Health Silk Road, broadening its scope beyond infrastructure to encompass various fields including tourism, capacity building and nuclear energy. The BRI has a strategic element, providing China with a platform to project its power globally.
The initiative ensures long-term access to resources and markets while posi.