List of African countries where the most intense battle for global influence occurs

The fight for influence in Africa has never been more fierce, given that foreign forces are vying for military, political, and economic control, as well as new political ideologies emerging in certain African countries.

For instance, the new anti-West sentiments in some parts of the Sahel region have prompted regional and international entities to compete for power, which Russia seems to be winning.

According to the Geopolitical Influence & Peace report, ideological differences amongst major global powers have widened, with authoritarian governments such as China and Russia advocating alternative forms of government in opposition to liberal democracies.

"These developments, coupled with the rise of strategic decoupling and a resurgence of proxy conflicts in regions like Africa," the report states.

The United States has more than 10% influence in 74 low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), whereas China has 65%.

While both countries have similar levels of influence in Asia-Pacific, there are significant differences in influence elsewhere, with China controlling 27 sub-Saharan African states compared to 9 for the US.

China has been at the forefront of Africa's transformation, investing billions in infrastructure projects through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Chinese-funded roads, railways, ports, and energy projects have reshaped African economies, providing much-needed development.

Very recently, China promised a whopping $51 billion in funding for Africa, expanded infrastructure projects, and the creation of at least 1 million jobs.

However, concerns over debt dependency, environmental impact, and China's political influence have led to criticism. Despite this, Beijing remains Africa's largest trading partner, leveraging economic diplomacy to deepen ties across the continent.

In response, the United States has shifted its Africa strategy in recent years, focusing on countering China and Russia's growing influence.

With that said, here are the countries with the most intense foreign influence competition since 2011.

List of African countries with the most intense battle for global power influence since 2011