Competing for Soft Power: China’s Image-Making in Africa

As U.S. public diplomacy and global aid programs scale back in Africa, how might China’s aid programs and economic influence be perceived there?

On Oct. 30, join us for a discussion with Dr. Maria Repnikova, a leading expert on China’s propaganda and strategic communications, who will discuss findings from her new book, “Competing for Soft Power: China’s Image-Making in Africa” (Cambridge University Press: 2026). Drawing on research across Africa, and specifically in Ethiopia, Repnikova will explore how China uses media, health initiatives, economic partnerships and other forms of engagement to shape its image and build influence. She will also examine the success and limitations of these efforts, as China’s approach to overseas engagement evolves beyond large-scale infrastructure lending.

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Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy, 6100 Main Street, Houston, United States

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