Johannesburg, South Africa — The competitive landscape of space exploration is witnessing a new chapter as the United States and China vie for influence, with Africa emerging as a key battleground. Analysts have observed that China currently holds the lead in this strategic contest.
African space programs are nascent when compared to the established agencies of the U.S. and China, yet the continent is becoming increasingly important for space diplomacy. Temidayo Oniosun, a Nigerian space scientist and the founder of Space in Africa, a firm specializing in space sector analytics and consulting, has highlighted that China is the predominant partner in Africa’s space endeavors.
According to Oniosun, there is a wide array of collaborative projects spanning communication, observation, and navigation technologies. China is actively involved in satellite development for various African partners, establishing ground station infrastructure, and promoting its BeiDou navigation system as a competitor to the U.S. GPS.
Oniosun expressed to VOA that the U.S. interest in Africa’s space sector seems driven by a desire to counterbalance China’s influence rather than purely scientific or exploratory ambitions. The U.S. has made strides, as evidenced by agreements announced at the U.S.-Africa Leaders’ Summit last year. Notable collaborations include Nigeria’s partnership with American aerospace company SpaceX, which also assisted Kenya with the deployment of its inaugural operational satellite in April.
China, with its space ambitions set on becoming a dominant space power by 2045, recognizes SpaceX as a formidable competitor.
Despite China’s advancements, a NASA representative emphasized to VOA the U.S.’s commitment to international collaboration for a secure and prosperous future in space. The spokesperson cited the ongoing collaboration with the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) in the Karoo region, where plans are underway to construct a new antenna site to support NASA’s Artemis Program and the next human lunar missions.
The U.S. has championed the Artemis Accords, a set of principles for space exploration in the 21st century. African nations, including Angola, have been signing on to these accords, signaling a growing partnership in space exploration.
A report from the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), co-authored by Oniosun, indicates that over 20 African countries have space programs, contributing to 0.7 percent of the global space expenditure in 2020. The report suggests that African nations prioritize space technology as a means to achieve national development goals and address challenges like climate change, disaster management, and security concerns.
SANSA has shared with VOA details of 11 U.S. partnerships, encompassing deep space exploration, educational initiatives, and space science research. Asanda Sangoni, acting managing director of SANSA Earth Observation, also noted six agreements related to space operations and ongoing collaborations with American and Canadian researchers in space weather. In comparison, SANSA maintains three projects or agreements with China, focusing on space exploration, satellite navigation, and general space cooperation.
When asked about the notion of Africa being a stage for a new Cold War-like space race, Sangoni refuted the idea of a single “Space Race,” pointing out that the global space landscape is diversifying with more nations participating and partnering in space activities for varied goals and interests.
The U.S. Institute of Peace panel also shed light on national security concerns that accompany the intensifying space race. Joseph Sany, the vice president of the Africa Center, discussed the potential risks of great power competition in space, including the possibility of conflict escalation due to the critical role of space assets in intelligence, communication, and military operations.
The Pentagon’s 2023 annual report to Congress on China’s military highlights Beijing’s space ambitions, noting the People’s Liberation Army’s emphasis on space superiority and information warfare.
China’s expanding space presence isn’t confined to Africa, as a recent article in The Washington Post pointed out the Pentagon’s concerns over China’s space and satellite initiatives in Latin America with potential defense applications.
The Chinese Embassy in Washington directed VOA’s inquiries regarding space cooperation with Africa to the Chinese Mission to the African Union, which did not respond to requests for comments.,
The United States and China, as two of the world’s superpowers, have been increasingly turning their attention toward Africa for strategic partnerships, economic opportunities, and geopolitical influence. This dynamic has raised questions about whether there is enough space for everyone, considering the continent’s own interests and sovereignty.
**US Interests in Africa:**
– **Security Cooperation:** The US has traditionally focused on counterterrorism efforts and military partnerships to maintain regional stability.
– **Economic Engagement:** Initiatives like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) aim to bolster trade relationships.
– **Diplomatic Relations:** The US seeks to support democratic institutions and human rights on the continent.
**China’s Activities in Africa:**
– **Infrastructure Development:** China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has funded numerous infrastructure projects, from roads to railways and ports.
– **Investment and Loans:** Chinese investments across Africa span various sectors, including mining, telecommunications, and agriculture.
– **Political Ties:** China often emphasizes non-interference in domestic affairs, which appeals to many African governments.
**African Perspectives:**
– **Agency and Choice:** African nations benefit from having more options for international partnerships and can leverage this for better terms.
– **Development Goals:** African countries seek foreign investment that aligns with their own development priorities and sustainability goals.
– **Negotiating Power:** With more international players interested in Africa, there is potential for increased negotiating power on trade, aid, and investment.
**Challenges and Considerations:**
– **Debt Sustainability:** Concerns about debt levels associated with Chinese loans have prompted discussions on sustainable financing.
– **Geopolitical Tensions:** The rivalry between the US and China may pressure African countries to take sides, potentially leading to geopolitical tension.
– **Local Impact:** There is an ongoing debate about the extent to which foreign involvement benefits local populations versus external interests.
In summary, the growing interest of the US and China in Africa presents both opportunities and challenges. While African nations can benefit from diversified partnerships, it is crucial to ensure that these relationships support the continent’s long-term development and political autonomy.
