Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s upcoming visit to China is set to ignite a crucial dialogue over Beijing’s rising influence as both a political adversary and economic competitor. One glaring concern is the UK’s diminishing support for international aid, which experts warn is paving the way for China to dominate narratives across Africa – a continent poised to host one in four of the world’s population by 2050.
A Battle for Hearts and Minds
The narrative being shaped by Beijing is one of disillusionment with the West. China’s messaging is clear: “The West cannot be trusted,” they assert, framing colonialism as a continuous burden that has left African nations impoverished. This rhetoric is resonating with a significant number of Africans; a study revealed that 60% of Ethiopians and 50% of South Africans believe that any conflict in Taiwan would be the United States’ fault. Such sentiments are exacerbated by a growing wave of anti-American and anti-Western feelings, often fuelled by both local and foreign media.
With the UK reducing its international development budget by billions, the BBC World Service finds itself in jeopardy. This funding cut threatens its ability to effectively compete against China’s extensive media reach in Africa. As Starmer embarks on his diplomatic mission, the Chinese apparatus is already surging ahead, consolidating its position as the dominant media force on the continent.
China’s Expanding Media Footprint
China’s media strategy in Africa is multifaceted, featuring state-run entities like the China Global Television Network (CGTN) and Xinhua News Agency. The Chinese government has strategically partnered with local organisations to bolster its influence, seizing control of digital broadcasting as many African countries transition from analogue to digital platforms. Notably, StarTimes, a private Chinese company, is integral to this transition, providing the infrastructure through which most Africans access television.
Moreover, CGTN actively cultivates relationships with “non-professional journalists,” equipping them with resources to tell stories that align with Beijing’s narratives. This approach cleverly circumvents the restrictions faced by traditional news outlets regarding sensitive topics in China, such as human rights abuses. Consequently, platforms like YouTube and TikTok, which see significant engagement from young audiences in countries like Kenya and Nigeria, become avenues for disseminating a polished, state-approved image of China.
The BBC’s Struggle for Relevance
Despite the challenges posed by Chinese media, the BBC remains a respected source of news across Africa. A 2024 survey indicated that 60% of Zambians and over 40% of South Africans tune into BBC broadcasts. The corporation is regarded as a beacon of media freedom; however, its influence risks erosion in the face of ongoing funding cuts.
In Lesotho, for instance, the national broadcaster frequently shuts down, leaving a gap that the BBC once filled. Now, it is in direct competition with CGTN for airtime, highlighting the precarious position of UK media in a rapidly changing environment. Moreover, the financial allure of rival networks, such as Turkey’s TRT, is drawing talent away from the BBC, further diminishing its standing.
The Implications of Diminishing Aid
The reduction in the UK’s aid budget may seem a domestic financial strategy, but it carries significant international ramifications. By cutting funding for initiatives that promote British values and narratives abroad, the UK risks undermining its own influence and inadvertently bolstering authoritarian regimes.
As Starmer navigates his visit to China, he would do well to consider the broader implications of these funding cuts. A diminished presence in Africa not only weakens Britain’s global standing but also plays directly into the hands of rivals like China, who are eager to fill the void left by the West.
Why it Matters
The stakes are high in the global battle for influence, particularly in Africa, where narratives shape public perception and policy. As the UK retracts its support for media and development initiatives, it jeopardises its ability to counteract the compelling narratives propagated by China. At a time when soft power is crucial, the UK must rethink its approach to aid and engagement, lest it cede ground to authoritarian influences that thrive on disinformation and mistrust.
