How Ms. Chen Mingjian Advances PRC’s Strategic Agenda in Tanzania

China’s influence in Tanzania is not only deep but deliberate. H.E. Ms. Chen Mingjian, the Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, is central to this growing presence.

As she marks three years in office this October, it’s evident that she is a key player in China’s strategic ambitions in East Africa.

Her role, driven by her unique background, extends well beyond typical diplomatic duties. President Xi Jinping seems to be using Ms. Chen’s skills to tighten China’s grip on Tanzania.

Ms. Chen Mingjian has played a central role in advancing Chinese projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, increasing China’s footprint in Tanzania, and reinforcing the strategic relationship between the two countries. [PHOTO/Courtesy]

Who is Ms. Chen Mingjian?

Before taking her position as Ambassador, Ms. Chen Mingjian served as the Deputy Director-General of External Security in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of China.

This past role gave her deep insights into global security affairs, and she is putting that knowledge to use in Tanzania.

Her experience in handling external security matters makes her the ideal candidate for China’s broad ambitions, particularly when it comes to influencing strategic sectors.

Since assuming her post in Tanzania, Ms. Chen has focused on expanding China’s influence in the country.

Her background and expertise make her more than just a diplomat—she’s a strategic agent tasked with executing Beijing’s agenda.

Economic Investments: Building Influence

China is already Tanzania’s largest investor. By October 2022, Chinese investments in Tanzania amounted to $9.8 billion. China is also the country’s largest trading partner, and trade between the two nations reached $3.9 billion in 2019.

Under Ms. Chen’s guidance, China has successfully expanded its economic footprint. Projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have been central to this push.

Ms. Chen has overseen infrastructure projects, including major investments in ports, railways, and roads. The aim? To make Tanzania a regional hub and create a stronger link between Tanzania and China’s trade routes.

Infrastructure Projects: TAZARA and Beyond

One of the key achievements during Ms. Chen’s tenure is the reactivation of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA).

This railway, built with Chinese support decades ago, symbolizes China’s long-standing ties with Tanzania. By revamping this line, China aims to enhance regional connectivity, making it easier for East African nations to move goods.

China’s investments also extend to sea and rail infrastructure. This focus on transportation means that Tanzania could become an important part of the East African logistics network.

Through these projects, Ms. Chen is helping President Xi Jinping achieve his goal of making Tanzania a demonstration zone for China’s high-quality cooperation with Africa.

Security Influence: Ms. Chen’s Role

Ms. Chen’s influence in Tanzania is not limited to the economy. Her background in security has allowed her to expand China’s role in Tanzanian security affairs.

She has fostered deeper cooperation between Tanzanian security forces and Chinese military advisors. This collaboration includes training programs, intelligence exchanges, and donations of security equipment.

These efforts suggest a strategic objective beyond simple partnership. It’s possible that President Xi Jinping positioned Ms. Chen in Tanzania to prepare the groundwork for a Chinese military presence in the region.

Tanzania, with its strategic location along the Indian Ocean, could become an ideal location for a Chinese naval base. Such a move would significantly boost China’s military reach in Africa.

While no official announcements have been made about a base, Ms. Chen’s activities have clearly strengthened China’s influence over Tanzania’s military capabilities. This has raised questions and concerns among Tanzanians and their neighbors.

Achievements and Challenges Under Ms. Chen’s Tenure

Ms. Chen Mingjian’s three-year tenure has been a mix of notable achievements and pressing challenges.

Achievements:

1. Increased Investments: China’s investments in Tanzania have grown significantly under Ms. Chen. Chinese companies now play a central role in Tanzania’s economic landscape, creating jobs and boosting development.
2. Infrastructure Development: Ms. Chen has advanced major projects under the BRI, including the expansion of railways, ports, and road networks. These projects are designed to make Tanzania an important logistics center in East Africa.
3. Strengthened Diplomatic Relations: Ms. Chen has managed to keep diplomatic ties strong, ensuring that China and Tanzania continue to share a vision for mutual growth. This includes fostering cultural exchanges and education programs to solidify public sentiment.

Challenges:

1. Debt Dependency: With the large inflow of Chinese investments comes the risk of debt dependency. Tanzanians are concerned that their country might fall into a “debt trap,” making them reliant on China. This dependency could allow China to gain undue influence over Tanzania’s policies.
2. Sovereignty Concerns: China’s growing presence in both economic and security sectors has led to fears over Tanzania’s sovereignty. Tanzanians worry that their country could lose its ability to make independent decisions, especially with China playing such an outsized role in key areas.
3. Potential Military Presence: The deepening of security ties has raised questions about China’s long-term goals. Is China aiming to establish a military base in Tanzania? While there’s no official confirmation, the possibility remains a point of concern for the region.

Regional Impact and Concerns

The influence Ms. Chen wields in Tanzania affects not only the country but also the entire East African region.

China’s strategic projects in Tanzania are part of a broader agenda to establish a strong presence along the Indian Ocean.

Neighboring countries must now deal with the possibility of a permanent Chinese military base next door.

If China does establish a base, it could change the balance of power in East Africa. This would also invite interest from other foreign powers, leading to potential regional tensions.

For the continent as a whole, Ms. Chen’s activities in Tanzania point to a deeper question—should African nations be worried about increased foreign military influence?

As China builds up its economic ties, it also strengthens its military influence. This dual focus could make it difficult for countries like Tanzania to maintain their independence.

Why President Xi Is Relying On Ms. Chen as the Key Player

It is evident that President Xi Jinping is using Ms. Chen Mingjian strategically to advance China’s interests in Tanzania.

Her background in security allows her to do more than just foster economic relations. She is laying the groundwork for potential military partnerships, positioning China as a dominant player in East Africa.

Her achievements in expanding economic ties are impressive, but they also serve a broader purpose—creating a foundation for deeper influence.

Infrastructure projects, security training, and increased Chinese investments are all tools for China to embed itself in Tanzania’s growth.

Ms. Chen’s work aligns perfectly with Xi Jinping’s vision for China-Africa relations. China wants to be seen not just as an investor, but as a partner in Africa’s long-term development.

But this partnership comes at a price. It could mean that Tanzania and its neighbors end up having less say over their own futures.