The African continent was targeted for centuries by Western countries seeking to expand their colonies, and although European nations withdrew from the region after the 1900s, their influence in Africa has persisted. In the postmodern era, Africa has begun taking steps to free itself from European influence, increasing its cooperation with major powers such as Russia and China.
It is possible to observe a decline in the influence of European countries on Africa in recent years. China has filled this gap with economic investments and is establishing new political alliances. However, there is still one country whose presence and influence are felt more strongly in Africa compared to other European nations: France. Despite a decrease in number over the years, France still maintains military bases in Africa. The growing cooperation between China and African countries has led France to reconsider its policies on Africa.
Moreover, weaknesses and certain issues in the economic relations between France and Africa have become more apparent since the late 2010s. French companies such as Total, Areva, and Bolloré have maintained a long-standing presence in Africa, contributing to energy and infrastructure growth. However, local civil society organizations have criticized these companies for corporate governance practices, corruption scandals, and monopolistic behavior.[1]
The failure of French companies to maintain necessary standards in Africa and their involvement in scandals may accelerate the region’s process of distancing itself from France and other European countries. Indeed, in some areas, public movements can be observed aimed at breaking free from French influence and achieving independence. Diversifying economic relations with countries other than France could further diminish Western influence in the region. In fact, African countries seem to be shifting towards alternative partnerships with nations like China and Arab countries rather than maintaining ties with France.
Relations between China and Africa in the culture and media sectors have been on the rise. Chinese universities have gained popularity among African students due to scholarship opportunities and China’s advancements in technology. China has now become the top destination for African students, with France ranking second. In addition to these developments, China is also supporting Chinese language education in African universities.[2]
It can be said that China’s initiatives aim to reduce cultural differences between China and Africa. Moreover, the language barrier is seen as a significant obstacle to the development of relations between Africa and China. Considering that French is the official language in many African countries, the spread of Chinese in the region could further increase the likelihood of a decline in France’s influence there in the future.
The most significant aspect of relations between China and Africa is economic cooperation. Today, China is the continent’s largest bilateral trading partner, with trade volume reaching $282 billion in 2023. China exports more to Africa ($173 billion) than it imports from the continent ($109 billion). Moreover, the majority of Africa’s exports consist of unprocessed goods.[3]
The diversification of economic and industrial investments across various sectors contributes to China’s growing influence in Africa. On the other hand, the continued cultural influence of France and other European countries in the region to some extent may limit China’s impact.
Historically, France has had significant political influence in Africa, particularly in West Africa and other regions where it once held colonies. France’s Africa policy is shaped by its strong ties with its former colonies. However, France’s connections, especially with West African countries, are weakening due to China’s growing economic and diplomatic activities in the region. While China gains influence through investments and infrastructure projects in France’s former colonies, France is attempting to counterbalance and limit China’s influence.
France maintains numerous military bases and operations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, stemming from historical and strategic ties. While China has a smaller military presence in Africa, it has established military bases in certain countries, gaining influence in the security field as well. However, China’s military presence remains generally limited, often functioning as an extension of its economic interactions.
It is possible to say that China’s investment plans with African countries will continue in the long term. On May 30, 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that $51 billion in financing would be provided to Africa over the next three years, creating employment for at least one million people.[4] On the other hand, it is clear that France is determined to maintain its economic ties with Africa. In fact, France remains one of the continent’s largest foreign investors. It is likely that the growing China-Africa relations will change France’s relationship with the region. The impact of France’s policies will largely depend on the response of African countries. While France continues to maintain a presence in the region, it may take steps to strengthen its cultural influence, supporting this by increasing its economic investments.
* Revision: Dr. Cenk TAMER, Arrived: 02.11.2024, 13.21, Delivered: 05.11.2024, 11.54.
[1] Signé, L. (2019, February 5). France-Africa relations challenged by China and the European Union. Brookings. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/france-africa-relations-challenged-by-china-and-the-european-union/, (Access Date: 02.11.2024).
[2] Usman, Z. & Xiayong, T. (2024, May 30). How is China’s economic transition affecting its relations with Africa? Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2024/05/how-is-chinas-economic-transition-affecting-its-relations-with-africa?lang=en, (Access Date: 02.11.2024).
[3] Ibid.
[4] Ibid.
