China pledges $51B to boost Africa’s health, jobs & infrastructure

China pledges US$ 51B to boost Africa’s health, jobs, and infrastructure

AFRICA – China has pledged US$ 51 billion in new financial support to Africa over the next three years, marking a major step in strengthening its partnership with the continent.

The announcement was made at the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing in late 2024.

This financial commitment, part of China’s strategic vision for global development, includes US$ 210 billion in credit lines and US$ 70 billion in direct investment.

MedExpo Africa 2025

The funds aim to boost Africa’s infrastructure, healthcare systems, renewable energy projects, and job creation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping described modernization as a shared goal, stating that closer ties will benefit the combined populations of over 2.7 billion people in China and Africa.

Health and social development at the core

China’s FOCAC Beijing Action Plan (2025–2027) emphasizes social impact. The plan includes:

  • 10 new healthcare facilities
  • 10 malaria control demonstration programs
  • Support for local production of vaccines and medicines
  • 500 community-focused projects improving health, clean water, education, and rural livelihoods
  • A “100 Companies in 1,000 Villages” initiative to create jobs and uplift communities

These projects are designed to strengthen Africa’s health systems, with a focus on women, children, and rural populations, and to improve the region’s ability to respond to future health emergencies.

Driving clean energy and infrastructure growth

A significant portion of the investment targets 30 major infrastructure and renewable energy projects.

China plans to assist African countries in expanding access to clean energy, enhancing industrial capabilities, and improving transportation systems.

Chinese companies will also be encouraged to invest in African airports and airlines, enhancing air connectivity and supporting civil aviation improvements.

A strategic, mutually beneficial partnership

China’s renewed commitment reflects its broader strategy to position itself as a trusted development partner to Africa.

In return, African nations stand to benefit from long-term infrastructure upgrades, stronger healthcare, and industrial growth.

China, meanwhile, strengthens its influence on the continent while gaining access to key resources and markets.

The partnership also aims to support Africa’s digital transformation. Chinese businesses will invest in sectors such as e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and smart infrastructure, helping to build Africa’s digital economy.

African leaders welcome support, call for responsible implementation

Several African heads of state have praised the renewed support, citing past Chinese investments that have transformed infrastructure and services across the continent.

However, experts warn that debt transparency, sustainable financing, and local content policies must remain priorities to ensure lasting benefits.

China’s pledge comes at a time of growing global interest in Africa, signaling its intent to counterbalance Western influence and deepen its footprint in one of the world’s fastest-growing regions.