David Shinn

(沈大伟)

David Shinn

沈大伟

The latest news and top stories on David Shinn, an Adjunct Professor of International Affairs at George Washington University. He served 37 years in the US Foreign Service, including as Ambassador to Ethiopia and Burkina Faso, with postings across Africa.

David Shinn

(沈大伟)

China’s port role in Africa extends far beyond docks: study

The Africa Centre for Strategic Studies says Chinese firms are deeply embedded across the continent’s maritime networks.

Can China’s strict policing model ‘silence the guns’ in Africa?

Chinese team arrives in DR Congo to help fight Ebola, ‘filling US void’

China steps up aid to Africa but huge funding gap left by Trump’s cuts remains

Beijing’s efforts in food and medical relief, a sector traditionally dominated by US programmes, could partly fill the void, observers said.

Why Beijing’s US$4.5 billion Niger-Benin oil pipeline is under fire from rebels

Chinese nationals warned to avoid high-risk areas after infrastructure becomes a primary target for rebels seeking to halt military junta.

How a ‘military vacuum’ in West and Central Africa opened new markets for China

Beijing has increased engagement with countries in the Sahel following the French military exit, and with Russian weapons in short supply.

China sends envoy to Libya after embassy shuttered for more than a decade

Ma Xueliang has been appointed as the new ambassador in Tripoli as Beijing seeks to ‘keep a foot in the door’ despite the volatility.

How China is ramping up Africa charm offensive to boost cultural ties, influence

Beijing dedicates 2026 to ‘cultural and social diplomacy’ across the continent, with 600 activities aimed at fostering strong friendships.

China FM Wang Yi opens Africa tour with united call for rules-based order

In Ethiopia, Wang joins African Union leader Mahmoud Ali Youssouf in voicing concerns over US raid on Venezuela.

Tracing China’s long links with Kenya, from Admiral Zheng He to belt and road

National museum in Nairobi celebrates 620th anniversary of Ming dynasty navigator’s voyages and 62 years of modern bilateral ties.

‘Concrete symbols’: China-built Ecowas HQ latest infrastructure gift to Africa

Beijing’s strategy to project influence through gifting prestigious presidential palaces and parliamentary buildings labelled ‘unique’.

Railway deal and a toxic spill to top agenda as Chinese premier visits Zambia

Strategically important Tazara project will be the focus for Li Qiang in Lusaka, but he could also face fallout over copper mine pollution.

Somali piracy has waned, so why is China’s navy still in the Gulf of Aden?

China sends task force to deepwater gulf of the Indian Ocean to train personnel, test ships and equipment in harsh ocean conditions.

Will China step in as Egypt and Ethiopia spar over Beijing-backed Nile mega dam?

Beijing’s strong ties put it in better position to mediate than any other third party, but an expert says China is unlikely to intervene.

China arms Burkina Faso as Sahel turns away from Western security promises

As region’s security ties with US, France unravel, China steps in to fill the void and position itself for greater influence in the Sahel.