Kenya's crackdown on foreigners operating small businesses has put Chinese traders at the center of a wider debate over competition, immigration, and economic opportunity. President William Ruto's targeting of foreign merchants has raised concerns about xenophobia while exposing deeper frustrations over how Chinese businesses operate in Kenya's informal economy.

China's role in Africa is also expanding beyond trade. Xi Jinping's visit to Egypt highlighted Beijing's push for a greater role in Middle East and African security, while Chinese drones, weapons, and military training are gaining ground across the continent. At the same time, China's engagement is being framed through competing narratives of influence and "empire."

This week, we have a Roundtable episode where we look at China's evolving role in Africa, including Kenya's crackdown, China-Egypt relations, and the growth of Chinese arms sales.

📌 Topics Covered in This Episode:

  • Kenya's crackdown on foreign small businesses
  • Chinese traders and concerns over unfair competition
  • Xi Jinping's Egypt visit and China's push for a greater security role
  • The Global Civilization Initiative and China's engagement with the Global South
  • Chinese drones and arms sales across Africa
  • African countries diversifying their military partnerships for greater strategic autonomy
  • Challenging narratives about Chinese influence, debt, and African agency

Join the Discussion:

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