Cotonou, Benin – China has further deepened its ties with Benin by donating military equipment to the West African nation. The donation, consisting primarily of howitzers and related accessories, aims to bolster Benin’s fight against terrorism, particularly in the country’s north near the borders of Burkina Faso and Niger.
Benin’s military expressed gratitude for the equipment, highlighting its role in strengthening their arsenal and symbolizing the strong friendship between China and Benin. They emphasized that the howitzers will enhance their ability to respond to operational challenges posed by terrorist threats.
This donation follows China’s provision of four drones to Benin in 2023, signifying Beijing’s growing military cooperation with African nations. China’s strategy involves a mix of donating and selling military equipment, ranging from lethal weaponry like these howitzers to non-lethal tools and even training programs. Additionally, China finances infrastructure development and provides aircraft for African countries.
Experts believe China’s motivation behind these donations is twofold. Firstly, it serves as a cost-effective way to build trust and foster strategic cooperation between the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and other African militaries. Secondly, Dr. Ilaria Carrozza of the Peace Research Institute Oslo suggests China uses military aid to pursue economic alignment with Africa. Donating equipment fosters mutually beneficial relationships that promote economic and political exchanges in the long run.
China’s recent military aid to Africa includes vehicles and engineering equipment for Kenya, $28 million worth of equipment for Zimbabwe (armored vehicles, patrol boats, sniper rifles, etc.), and patrol boats provided to Nigeria and Sierra Leone. Ghana received rocket artillery and armored vehicles earlier this year, highlighting China’s growing role as a major arms supplier to the continent.
A 2022 Peace Research Institute Oslo study reveals that China has provided military assistance to nearly all African countries, with Zimbabwe and Angola being top recipients. This assistance often correlates with China’s economic ties in a particular country, aiming to protect Chinese interests and citizens. For example, Seychelles received equipment for counter-piracy efforts, and Kenya received police training to safeguard a Chinese-built railway.
While donations are part of China’s larger military cooperation strategy, China also sells a wide range of weaponry to African nations. This includes everything from small arms to high-performance aircraft and missile systems.
David Shinn, a China-Africa specialist, acknowledges that although China’s donations earn appreciation from African governments, they likely have minimal impact on curbing terrorism. Shinn emphasizes that addressing the root causes of terrorism is the key to stopping its spread, not just providing artillery.
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