China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, officially began his traditional New Year’s tour of the African continent on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. This year’s diplomatic mission focuses heavily on stabilizing resource supply chains. Furthermore, Beijing aims to secure critical maritime routes across eastern and southern Africa.
The journey, which concludes on January 12, includes high-level stops in Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania, and Lesotho.
A Strategic Roadmap of the 2026 Tour
Beijing is currently prioritizing nations that serve as pillars for the “Belt and Road” Initiative. By doing so, China seeks to open new markets for its exports.
- Ethiopia: As a rapidly expanding economy with a projected 7.2% growth rate, Ethiopia remains a primary destination for Chinese industrial partnerships.
- Somalia: This visit marks the first by a Chinese Foreign Minister to Mogadishu since the 1980s. Consequently, it signals Beijing’s intent to protect trade through the Gulf of Aden.
- Tanzania: Acting as a gateway to the Indian Ocean, Tanzania is vital for transporting minerals from central Africa to global markets.
- Lesotho: This southern African nation is currently grappling with heavy U.S. trade tariffs. As a result, it has become a key target for China’s “free trade” advocacy.
Moving Toward “Africanized” Investment
China now faces stiff competition from the European Union for infrastructure financing. Therefore, the focus is shifting from high-interest loans to direct investment. Experts suggest that the success of these 2026 partnerships depends largely on local industrialization.
“The real test this year is moving beyond building roads to building factories,” says Judith Mwai of Development Reimagined. “African leaders are now demanding that Chinese projects turn raw materials into finished products on African soil.”
Countering Global Corridors
In Tanzania, Chinese firms are currently refurbishing the Tazara Railway. This project serves as a direct strategic alternative to the U.S. and EU-supported “Lobito Corridor” in the west. By revitalizing this rail link to Zambia’s copper mines, Beijing secures a dedicated path for essential green-energy minerals.
Diplomatic Support for Somalia and Lesotho
The stop in Somalia provides a significant political boost to Mogadishu. This follows recent international controversy regarding the recognition of Somaliland. By reaffirming support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, Beijing strengthens its influence at the mouth of the Red Sea.
Meanwhile, in Lesotho, Wang Yi is expected to champion Beijing’s policy of tariff-free market access. This stands in sharp contrast to recent U.S. policies. Currently, Lesotho’s exports face U.S. tariffs as high as 50%, which severely impacts the nation’s $2 billion economy.
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