A new report titled Geopolitical Influence and Peace Report highlights the growing presence of G20 countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, underlining the complex web of diplomatic, economic, and strategic interests shaping the continent’s global positioning.
The G20, comprising the world’s leading economies, continues to “wield significant power over numerous African states,” but these relationships extend far beyond economics or diplomacy. Analysts note a “complex interplay of historical connections, geopolitical objectives, soft power, and shared economic goals” defining current engagements.
Former colonial powers like the United Kingdom and France maintain longstanding ties with many African nations. While shared languages, legal systems, and governance structures support seamless interactions, these historical relationships can also reignite “past grudges and charges of neocolonialism.”
The continent is increasingly viewed as a “burgeoning market” offering potential in natural resources, agriculture, and technology. China, India, and the United States, in particular, have ramped up investments in infrastructure, energy, and innovation, signalling their long-term strategic interest.
However, influence in Africa is “more than just economics.” The continent’s voting bloc in international organisations, including the United Nations, makes it an essential partner in shaping global decisions.
Africa’s geographic position, rich in resources and bordered by key maritime routes, adds to its strategic value. G20 members have reinforced their presence through military partnerships, peacekeeping missions, and defence treaties, intensifying global competition for influence.
As global power dynamics shift, especially in West Africa, G20 engagement remains critical in redefining Africa’s role on the world stage.
According to a report by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP), titled Geopolitical Influence & Peace Report, here are the top 10 G20 countries with the largest impact in Africa
1. China – 27 Countries Influenced (+3)
China leads the list with influence in 27 Sub-Saharan African countries. Its role continues to expand, gaining ground in three more countries since the last report. China’s involvement spans infrastructure projects, trade agreements, and government partnerships across the continent.
2. France – 15 Countries Influenced (-3)
France remains influential, particularly in West and Central Africa. However, its footprint is shrinking, with influence in three fewer countries compared to previous data. Ongoing regional shifts and policy adjustments may be impacting France’s long-standing connections.
3. United States – 9 Countries Influenced (-3)
The United States holds influence in nine countries across the region but has seen a decline. The drop suggests a possible strategic rethink or reduced presence in some areas, even as it remains engaged through military support and development aid.
4. India – 4 Countries Influenced (+2)
India has increased its influence in two more countries, bringing the total to four. The rise signals stronger diplomatic engagement and growing partnerships in sectors such as healthcare, education, and digital technology.
5. Netherlands – 2 Countries Influenced (+1)
The Netherlands now influences two African countries. Although relatively small, the growth indicates an active approach to strengthening bilateral ties, possibly through trade and development cooperation.
6. Germany – 2 Countries Influenced (0)
Germany holds steady with influence in two countries. While there’s no change from previous counts, Germany continues to play a consistent role in governance, renewable energy, and economic cooperation initiatives.
7. Russia – 1 Country Influenced (0)
Russia’s influence remains limited to one Sub-Saharan African country. Its strategic focus in Africa appears selective, though it maintains military and political links where it is present.
8. Japan – 1 Country Influenced (0)
Japan also maintains influence in one country. Its engagement is largely focused on technology and education, as well as investment in health-related infrastructure.
9. United Kingdom – 1 Country Influenced (-1)
The United Kingdom has seen its influence drop, now standing at one country. This decline may reflect broader changes in foreign policy and a shift in focus after Brexit.
10. Saudi Arabia – 1 Country Influenced (-1)
Saudi Arabia closes the list with influence in one country. A drop in its reach suggests a reduced presence or pivot in strategy, even as it continues to support humanitarian and development work in some areas.
Credit to Chisom Micheal
Source: Businessday
