African youth increasingly positive about China's influence: survey

JOHANNESBURG, July 31 (Xinhua) -- African youth hold increasingly positive views of China's influence on the continent, with China emerging as the most favored partner among countries surveyed, a recent survey showed.

The African Youth Survey 2026, released by the Johannesburg-based Ichikowitz Family Foundation, was conducted in March this year and interviewed 4,901 people aged 18 to 24 across 16 African countries.

The report found that among respondents who considered China influential in their countries, 95 percent viewed that influence positively, up 18 percentage points from 2022.

It also showed that China was viewed as a partner by 95 percent of respondents, the highest proportion recorded for any country included in the survey. The report said China and the United States continue to be seen as the two most influential external powers, with China's influence more warmly received.

"China is earning the trust of the young generation that will shape Africa's future," said Ivor Ichikowitz, chairman of the Ichikowitz Family Foundation.

The survey also highlighted African youth's growing preference for practical cooperation, with 55 percent of respondents saying African countries should prioritize partnership with countries that can deliver tangible benefits such as trade and investment. ■