Hangyu Zhou, China’s Digital Soft Power in Africa: Analysing Strategic Cooperation and Influence via the Digital Silk Road (DSR)

    Background of the study
China's growing role in global technology has been accompanied by an increasing presence in Africa through digital cooperation initiatives, particularly under the broader framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The launch of the Digital Silk Road (DSR) in 2015 marked a significant phase in China’s foreign policy, emphasising the export of Chinese technology, the development of digital infrastructure, and the promotion of internet governance principles (Chin and He 2021). Africa, with its rapidly expanding digital economy and increasing demand for connectivity, presents a fertile ground for China’s digital diplomacy efforts (Li and Lin 2022).

Chinese tech giants like Huawei and ZTE have played pivotal roles in expanding telecommunications infrastructure across Africa, from 4G and 5G networks to smart city projects. This technology-driven engagement serves not only economic purposes but also diplomatic ones, as it creates new avenues for influence through what can be called digital soft power (Han and Tan 2020). By exporting technological solutions, China strengthens its role in shaping Africa’s digital future while also introducing its concept of cyber sovereignty, which advocates state control over digital spaces (Creemers 2017).

Analytical framework
This research will be grounded in soft power theory as articulated by Joseph Nye (1990), with a particular emphasis on the emerging concept of digital soft power. The analysis will explore how China uses its technological capabilities and digital diplomacy to project influence, shape global norms, and create favourable conditions for its geopolitical objectives. The digital soft power approach enables China to position itself as a development model, balancing technological innovation with state regulation and offering an alternative to Western governance models.

While many African nations view this partnership as advantageous, concerns persist regarding implications for data privacy, sovereignty, and long-term dependence on Chinese technology (Mohamed and Lichtenstein, 2022). Moreover, China’s growing presence raises geopolitical questions, especially among Western actors who are apprehensive about Beijing’s expanding digital footprint on the continent (Segal, 2020). By examining key investments, policies, and diplomatic initiatives that shape this dynamic, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of China’s digital soft power strategy in Africa.

Objectives of the study

• Explore the current status of digital cooperation between China and African countries, focusing on key areas such as telecommunications, e-commerce, and digital governance.
• Analyse how China’s digital infrastructure projects and technology exports contribute to its soft power strategy in Africa.
• Evaluate the concept of cyber sovereignty and its appeal to African governments as an alternative internet governance model.
• Assess the geopolitical and socioeconomic implications of China’s growing digital presence in Africa, particularly concerning data privacy, debt concerns, and foreign influence.
• Examine how African countries perceive China’s digital initiatives and the extent to which these engagements enhance China’s influence on the continent.

Research approach and analysis
This study will adopt a mixed-methods approach to analyse China’s digital soft power in Africa, integrating both qualitative and quantitative methods to ensure a comprehensive exploration. 

• Policy Analysis: The study will examine official documents and policy statements from Chinese and African governments, focusing on the Digital Silk Road, Belt and Road Initiative, and China’s foreign policy in Africa. Chinese government publications, such as white papers and speeches from top leaders, will be key primary sources.
• Statistical Data: Quantitative data will be collected from public databases, reports, and industry sources (e.g., World Bank, African Development Bank, China Global Investment Tracker) to analyse the extent of Chinese digital investments in AfricaCase Studies: In-depth case studies will be conducted on key African countries (e.g., Kenya, Nigeria) where China has significant digital infrastructure projects. These case studies will analyse the local impact of Chinese digital cooperation and the strategic value to China.
• Media and Public Diplomacy: Content analysis of Chinese media outlets (e.g., CGTN Africa, Xinhua) and African media sources will provide insights into the narratives around China’s digital cooperation and its public diplomacy strategy.