3GIMBALS

Chinese Telecom Infrastructure in Africa Shapes New Strategic Risks for U.S. Security

Chinese telecoms investments in Africa accelerate technology progress, but create significant risk.

Chinese telecom infrastructure in Africa has expanded rapidly, embedding Beijing’s influence into the continent’s digital backbone. While Chinese investments have boosted connectivity, they also introduce grave strategic vulnerabilities, including espionage risks, supply chain manipulation, and coercive leverage. This deep-dive examines how China’s telecom dominance in Africa could undermine U.S. security interests and influence future geopolitical contests. Understanding and addressing these risks is critical for safeguarding both African digital sovereignty and American strategic stability.