I examine the increase of Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa through the lens of Michel Foucault's theory of knowledge and power. Foucault argued that knowledge is not objective, but rather it can be used as a tool of domination by those in power. This paper explores how China's involvement in African AI development shapes knowledge production and governance on the continent. China has become one of the players in the African AI landscape, investing in AI technologies across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, education, and governance. This engagement presents both opportunities and challenges for African Countries. Whilst Chinese AI in Africa initiatives promise economic growth, infrastructure development, and technological innovation, Foucault's theory suggests a critical examination of the potential shifts in power and knowledge. Additionally, China's AI exports, particularly facial recognition technology, raise concerns about the potential for surveillance and control. African governments with authoritarian tendencies could leverage this technology to suppress certain groups of people and reinforce existing power structures. This aligns with Foucault's notion of "disciplinary power," where knowledge is used to monitor and govern populations. Therefore, a critical question remains: Who controls this knowledge? Is China dictating the terms of AI development in Africa, or is there space for genuine collaboration and knowledge co-creation? I will also investigate the ethical, social, and political implications of this engagement, highlighting the need for careful management to ensure equitable outcomes.

Part of the panel Rethinking AI Ethics in, for and from sub-Saharan Africa