China has signed nearly 24 agreements with African nations to develop space capabilities, focusing on satellites, lunar missions, and deep-space exploration. The deals are backed by $50 billion in loans and investments, aimed at advancing Africa’s space programs while also expanding China’s global surveillance network. This has raised concerns about potential military and intelligence applications, as China gains access to valuable surveillance data. The U.S. views these projects as security risks, fearing they could strengthen China’s military coordination. The partnerships highlight China’s growing influence in Africa’s space sector amid rising geopolitical tensions.
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