China’s COVID-19 aid in Africa: trends and implications for future pandemic preparedness

Chronic underfunding of pandemic preparedness remains a critical weakness in global health security. Without sustained, strategic investment, the world risks repeating the reactive approaches of past crises. This study examines the modes of COVID-19 aid delivered by the Chinese government across African countries and regions, offering a nuanced understanding of China’s operational role in pandemic response. In doing so, it contributes to the global health assistance literature by providing a more comprehensive view of China’s involvement in the prevention, treatment, and control of COVID-19.