China has been accused of utilizing media influence, psychological tactics, and debt diplomacy to secure costly agreements in Kenya and other African nations, as per a report from The Mount Kenya Times. The report highlighted a recent deal for expanding Kenya’s international airport, which could further entrench Kenya’s financial reliance on China and potentially compromise its sovereignty. Allegedly, Beijing employs various strategies, including state-backed media, to push for its projects, even when they come at inflated costs.
The contract for the airport expansion in Kenya reportedly exceeded the previous proposal by one and a half times, yet it was awarded to a Chinese state-owned company amid significant pressure. The report suggests that China’s approach involves a mix of media manipulation and covert tactics to sway public opinion in favor of Chinese ventures while undermining other options. This has raised concerns about Kenya’s increasing debt burden, with more than half of the country’s revenue now allocated to debt servicing, limiting social expenditure.
According to the report, China’s practice of funding projects at inflated prices contributes to long-term dependency, leading to situations where countries struggle to repay the debts. When faced with repayment challenges, Beijing allegedly seeks concessions, control over strategic assets, or influence over policy decisions. The report specifically points to Kenya’s airport project as a prime example of this debt trap diplomacy, suggesting that the country’s sovereignty is at risk due to its mounting debt obligations.
The media house also claims that Chinese operatives have cultivated ties with local journalists by offering training, funding, and other incentives, leading to biased reporting that favors Chinese interests. Through a combination of state-backed media, sponsored content, and social media campaigns, China allegedly promotes a narrative that only Chinese companies are capable of delivering on major projects, further solidifying its influence in the region.
