Paper short abstract:

What kind of security assistance rising powers offer to African countries? And how are competition dynamics for similar opportunities absorbed on the ground? I explore these issues by analyzing Chinese and Indian overtures towards Mozambique as well as Brazilian and Chinese efforts in Namibia.

Paper long abstract:

Studies over the role of rising powers in providing security assistance to African countries have so far avoided comparative exercises. Instead, the focus is often set on sparse ad hoc efforts led by either China, India, or Brazil on an individual basis. But despite the proliferation of new external security actors in the continent and the increase of juxtaposing intersections on the ground, the content of the expertise and capabilities made available, on the one hand, and the reactions they entice from the ground up, on the other hand, still remain insufficiently explored. What different practical solutions are offered in these cases? And how do recipient nations interpret and absorb dynamics of competition that invariably arise between newcomers for similar opportunities? I unpack these predicaments by analyzing Chinese and Indian overtures towards Mozambique as well as Brazilian and Chinese efforts in Namibia. I evidence key similarities and distinctions in tackling broad security needs, particularly when concerning the capacity-building of security sectors and the growing focus on maritime security concerns. I also argue for a measure of evident bargaining from African states despite conflicting outcomes in juggling multiple partners vying for the same ends.