China’s presence in Africa is often reduced to simplistic narratives: exploitation or development. But what is really happening on the ground? In this episode of Mapping Global China Conversations, Dr. Cobus van Staden unpacks the complexity of China–Africa relations, from infrastructure and media influence to global power dynamics.
Drawing on over 20 years of research, he challenges common myths (including the idea of Chinese prison labor), explains how local governments shape project outcomes, and explores how Africa is redefining its role in a changing multipolar world.
Key topics:
- The biggest myths about China in Africa
- Why infrastructure success depends on local governments
- The shift from mega-projects to “small but beautiful” investments
- China as partner, competitor, and global actor
- The rise of African agency in global geopolitics
