Africa’s Hidden Power Struggle: West vs. China

Admin
Jun 26, 2025
3 min read

By WorldWire News | Global Affairs Desk

Introduction: The New Global Battleground

In the 21st century, the world’s superpowers are not just competing over space, oil, or rare earths; they're vying for control over the world’s last great economic frontier: Africa.

While headlines often focus on Africa's challenges, conflict, corruption, or poverty the continent is quietly emerging as a strategic epicenter in the global power struggle between the West and China.

From critical minerals and military access points, to diplomatic voting blocs and digital infrastructure, Africa is no longer on the sidelines. It’s at the center.

Resource Rich, Influence Poor? Not Anymore

Africa holds:

60% of the world’s cobalt (used in EV batteries),
30% of global reserves of bauxite, chromium, and manganese, and
Vast untapped oil and gas basins (Mozambique, Nigeria, Angola).

These are strategic resources in a world rapidly transitioning to green technology and artificial intelligence.

China recognized this early. Through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China now controls or finances over 100 major African infrastructure projects from roads and rail to ports and digital backbones.

Meanwhile, Western powers, previously dominant through aid and military cooperation, are scrambling to reassert their influence, fearing Beijing’s growing footprint.

The New Map of Power: What’s Really at Stake?

Sector	China’s Playbook	Western Response
Infrastructure	Belt & Road ports in Kenya, Djibouti	U.S. Build Back Better World (B3W) fund
Digital Control	Huawei 5G in over 20 countries	U.S. bans + funding for alternative tech
Military Access	PLA base in Djibouti	AFRICOM expansion + French military bases
Mining & Energy	Long-term mining leases in DRC, Zambia	Strategic partnerships (e.g., U.S.-Congo)
Diplomacy	Soft power via UN votes, education, media	G7-Africa trade summits, EU partnerships

Africa is not just a battleground it’s a kingmaker.

With 54 UN votes, the continent can sway global governance. Whoever earns Africa’s loyalty may set the tone for global trade norms, cyber policies, and AI ethics in the decades ahead.

African Agency: Not Just Pawns in the Game

Contrary to popular narratives, African nations are increasingly asserting their agency.

Leaders are negotiating better terms, refusing lopsided deals, and pivoting toward multilateralism. Countries like Rwanda, Ghana, and Kenya are launching national development plans focused on digitalization, manufacturing, and sovereignty.

Africa’s youth bulge with over 70% of its population under age 30 offers a labor force the world cannot ignore. This demographic goldmine will shape global consumption, innovation, and political alliances.

Dr. Kofi Nyarko, economist at the Africa Growth Institute, explains: “Africa is no longer content with extractive partnerships. We want equity—whether it’s with China, the U.S., or the EU.”

What the Future Holds

As climate change reshapes supply chains and AI defines economic productivity, Africa's land, people, and resources become even more critical.

The next 25 years will likely determine:

Whether Africa becomes a sovereign superblock or a divided zone of exploitation;
Whether global powers pursue partnership or plunder;
And whether African voices will shape or merely echo the rules of the global order.