China’s presence in Africa has been securitised through maps drenched in red and stamped with flags, framing its engagement as a looming threat rather than a complex geopolitical reality.

So many myths and misunderstandings surround China. It is as complex as it is diverse, and it never fails to confound the West. But China’s geopolitical and economic importance is without question.

Brendon J. Cannon does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations ...