China steps up military support in Africa amid growing tensions

In January 2025, during his visit to Africa, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pledged military aid and training to countries in the Sahel region, including Chad and Nigeria. This visit coincided with heightened instability in the region, as evidenced by an attack on the Chadian presidential compound shortly after his meetings. Analysts noted that Wang's focus on military solutions indicates a shift in China's approach to engagement with Africa, moving from purely economic and diplomatic interactions to a more defense-oriented strategy. With anti-Western sentiment on the rise, countries in the Sahel increasingly seek alternative military partnerships, and China has positioned itself favorably for this shift. China has emerged as a leading arms supplier to sub-Saharan Africa, surpassing Russia, due in part to difficulties faced by countries like Nigeria in acquiring weapons from the U.S. over human rights concerns. The Chinese government's commitment to providing military support aligns with the desires of these nations to diversify their security partnerships as they shift away from traditional influences, especially those of France. Additionally, U.S. military presence in the region has diminished as countries like Niger have requested troop withdrawals, creating a gap that China looks to fill. Wang Yi's commitment to military training and equipment provisioning also aligns with China's broader strategy to present itself as a fellow developing nation in the 'Global South.' This positioning contrasts with Western powers that often condition military aid on adherence to human rights norms. Analysts predict that China's approach could capitalize on the perceived failures of Western military collaborations, particularly as some Sahel nations publicly express dissatisfaction with historical Western military involvement. The implications of this growing military relationship between China and Sahel countries could significantly affect the regional balance of power. China's willingness to engage militarily without imposing strict human rights conditions may allow it to establish deeper ties with nations looking to enhance their defensive and counterinsurgency capabilities. As this dynamic unfolds, it will be crucial to observe how these partnerships shape security frameworks in the increasingly volatile Sahel region and the surrounding areas.