In a bustling hall in Lusaka, Zambia, young students belt out Mandarin phrases, their laughter ringing out as they practice traditional Chinese calligraphy. Thousands of miles away, in Accra, Ghana, a local TV station airs a Chinese drama subtitled in English, its viewers captivated by tales of love, ambition, and perseverance. Across the continent, these moments—small but significant—are woven into the larger tapestry of China’s soft power in Africa, a relationship steeped in cultural diplomacy, media influence, and educational exchanges.
But how did we get here? And why is China pouring so much energy into shaping how it is perceived on the African continent?
A History of Exchanges
China’s engagement with Africa dates back centuries, as far as the voyages of Admiral Zheng He in the 15th century. But the modern chapter began in the mid-20th century during Africa’s decolonization era. Then, Beijing’s efforts were rooted in solidarity with African nations’ anti-colonial struggles. Beyond political alliances, China shared cultural symbols and practices, planting the seeds of friendship.
Fast-forward to the early 21st century, when Beijing’s foreign policy saw a significant pivot toward building its soft power globally. In Africa, where the narrative of exploitation and neglect had for too long defined its ties with Western nations, China found an opportunity to redefine itself—not as a distant superpower but as an equal partner invested in Africa’s success.
Media as a Diplomatic Tool
China’s media strategy in Africa is nothing short of a masterclass in cultural diplomacy. Through state-backed outlets like China Global Television Network (CGTN Africa) and Xinhua News Agency, Beijing tells its story on African soil. These platforms often highlight China’s contributions to African development—modern railways, sprawling infrastructure, and trade ties—while carefully sidestepping contentious issues like debt diplomacy.
What sets this apart from traditional propaganda is the tone. CGTN, for instance, often recruits African journalists to report stories from an African perspective, creating content that resonates with local audiences. A 2020 study found that CGTN’s African coverage downplays overtly political narratives and instead focuses on shared cultural and economic goals. However, critics argue that this selective storytelling glosses over China’s challenges, such as worker mistreatment and the environmental toll of some projects.
Beyond newsrooms, Chinese soap operas and documentaries flood African airwaves, introducing millions to Chinese culture. Shows like Ode to Joy have found a loyal following, presenting relatable themes of family and ambition while subtly embedding a positive image of modern China.
The Classroom Connection
Few tools are as powerful in diplomacy as education. China has doubled down on Confucius Institutes—centers for language and cultural exchange—across Africa. As of 2023, there are over 60 such institutes on the continent, hosting thousands of African students keen to learn Mandarin and explore opportunities in China.
For many, the benefits are tangible. Scholarships to Chinese universities offer young Africans a pathway to higher education, technical training, and networking opportunities. “Learning Chinese has opened doors for me,” says Amina, a Kenyan student currently studying in Beijing. “It’s not just a language; it’s a bridge to a world of possibilities.”
But there’s a flipside. Critics worry that Confucius Institutes could serve as tools for Beijing to push its political agenda, suppressing narratives that challenge China’s policies. African universities hosting these institutes must balance the benefits of collaboration with the risk of ideological influence.
The Cultural Balancing Act
China’s cultural engagement in Africa is a study in contrasts. On the one hand, its investments—cultural festivals, film co-productions, and art exhibitions—showcase a genuine effort to foster mutual understanding. On the other, the skeptics point to a calculated strategy aimed at tilting geopolitical scales in Beijing’s favor.
Still, it’s hard to deny the allure of China’s approach. In a world where diplomacy is often reduced to deals inked in boardrooms, Beijing’s emphasis on cultural and human connections stands out. Whether it’s a child learning Mandarin in Tanzania or a South African filmmaker collaborating with Chinese studios, these exchanges leave an indelible mark on the lives they touch.
A Future Written Together
As China’s soft power in Africa continues to evolve, it raises important questions about the nature of influence and partnership in the 21st century. Is Beijing’s charm offensive a genuine expression of solidarity, or does it mask deeper strategic ambitions? Perhaps the answer lies somewhere in between.
One thing is certain: the African story cannot be told without acknowledging China’s growing role in it. And for better or worse, these cultural exchanges have etched a new chapter in the rich and complex narrative of Africa-China relations.
