In an article from the VOA-Voice of America, China wins battle of perception among young Africans, they report:

"Seventy-seven percent of young Africans said China was the 'foreign actor' with the greatest impact on the continent, while giving the U.S. an influence rating of just 67%. In a follow-up question on whether that influence was positive or negative, 76% said China's was positive, while 72% said the same of the U.S.

"By contrast, U.S. influence has dropped by 12% since 2020, according to the survey of more than 4,500 Africans 18 to 24 years old and living in 15 countries across Africa."

One of the primary reasons for their choices is: "Beijing's investments in infrastructure development on the continent and China's creation of job opportunities in African countries." (Emphasis added)

Ivor Ichikowitz said:

"Young Africans are telling us that they are seeing tangible, visible and very impactful signs of the role that China has played in the development of Africa."

"Albeit that there is significant criticism of Chinese investment in Africa, it's very difficult for African governments not to value China because China is providing capital, providing expertise, providing markets at a time when Europe and the United States are not."