China gifted Zimbabwe a new parliament building in October 2023 — a US$200 million project financed and constructed by the Chinese government. This generosity is part of a broader trend of China gifting various projects, from parliamentary buildings to stadiums, to countries around the world.

Earlier in 2023, China inaugurated the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Prior to that, China gifted new parliament buildings to several countries such as Mozambique, Lesotho and Guinea-Bissau.

China’s strategy of engaging in prestige project diplomacy, particularly in Africa, has been notable since the construction of the African Union headquarters in 2012. These grand structures serve as symbolic showcases of China’s capabilities, positioning the country as a facilitator of modernisation and progress. These projects play a crucial role in China’s pursuit of international prestige, functioning as powerful tools to influence global perceptions and cultivate a positive image.

The dynamics of these projects can be understood by the examination of the concept of gift giving in human relationships. Anthropological perspectives highlight that gifts are never entirely free as they create a bilateral and irrevocable bond between the giver and receiver. Gift exchanges are not merely an exchange of utility — they establish and foster social relationships. Gifts are inalienable objects whose identity always remains tied to the giver. The significance of the gift lies in the symbolic expression of creating bonds of recognition. The act of giving is closely linked to the notions of honour and prestige, as it establishes oneself as generous and deserving of respect.

In international societies, gifts work in a similar way, establishing prestige for the giver and reaffirming the receiver’s position. Despite the emphasis on partnership, the act of giving subtly underscores and reinvents material inequalities, contributing to the enhancement of China’s reputation, honour and prestige on the global stage. A gift may not create a debt but it tends to naturalise the material inequality between the donor and recipient. Gifts in international society are often unreciprocated but are linked to the notion of gaining prestige, honour and reputation.

China’s approach to aid differs from that of Western counterparts. In official documents, China prefers terms like ‘development assistance’ and often refers to recipients as ‘partners’, avoiding the traditional donor–recipient binary. While many Chinese projects involve loans and direct investments, several are outright gifts, such as government centres, stadiums and other high-profile buildings in African countries. These projects, characterised by grandiosity and architectural splendour, go beyond tangible outcomes, aiming to enhance China’s visibility and reputation in Africa.

Examining specific projects, such as the impressive library building at the University of Dar es Salaam, prominently labelled as ‘China Aid’, underscores the pursuit of prestige. Whether an end goal or a means to broader benefits, these gifts align with China’s ambitions, mirroring the dynamics of prestige in human relationships.

The projects serve as symbols of the China–Africa relationship. These grand structures, with high visibility, capture international media attention and the African community’s interest, contributing to shaping a positive perception of China among the African populace.

The symbolic aspect of China’s architectural gifts extend beyond the physical structures. Each edifice, branded with expressions like ‘China Aid’, becomes a tangible representation of China’s commitment to fostering development and cooperation. The architectural grandeur goes beyond the utilitarian, embodying a shared narrative of progress, partnership and aspirations.

The symbolic diplomacy embedded in these projects creates a lasting imprint on the African landscape. The carefully crafted structures, ranging from government centres to stadiums, serve as symbols of the friendship and collaboration between China and African nations. They act as tangible markers of China’s influence and its commitment to the socio-economic advancement of its African partners.

While historically inconspicuous due to China’s early development stage, these symbolic gifts underscore the nuances of power dynamics in international relations. Beyond presenting acts of generosity, they subtly reinforce China’s role as a major global player, capable of shaping landscapes and leaving an indelible mark. The symbolism goes beyond the aesthetic appeal of the structures; resonating with a narrative of mutual respect, shared progress and the promise of a collective future. These gifts allow China to solidify its image as a global power, maximising visibility and gaining political leverage in Africa and on the international stage.

China’s grand architectural gifts in Africa transcend mere construction projects — they are powerful symbols of diplomatic engagement, partnership and mutual aspirations. The narrative embedded in these structures contributes to shaping perceptions, fostering goodwill and solidifying China’s standing as a key player in the African continent.

Hema Narang is an independent researcher and completed her PhD from the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University.