A recent analysis by the Washington-based African Center for Strategic Studies highlights the extensive presence of Chinese firms in African ports. According to the report, Chinese companies are active in 78 out of 231 commercial ports across the continent, with a particularly strong concentration in West Africa (35 ports).

The study, which references a comprehensive mapping of African ports by MaritimAfrica, describes China’s engagement as multifaceted – ranging from financing and constructing port infrastructure to fully operating facilities. In some cases, Chinese firms dominate all aspects of port operations, as seen with Nigeria’s Lekki Deep Sea Port.

Beyond West Africa, China’s footprint is also significant in East Africa (17 ports), Southern Africa (15 ports), and North Africa (11 ports). To put this into perspective, Latin America and the Caribbean host only 10 Chinese-built or operated ports, while Asia has 24.

The article underscores that investing in African ports has proven highly profitable for China. For every US$1 invested, China reportedly gains up to US$13 in trade revenues.

However, it remains unclear how much of this economic benefit stays within Africa, as no estimates are available. Beyond economic gains, China’s involvement grants it substantial influence over the shipping lanes that serve African ports. The African Center for Strategic Studies notes that companies holding operating leases or concession agreements not only reap financial rewards but also exert control over access to key supply chain nodes.

Source: THEHABARINETWORK