Justice for Africa is not merely a slogan; it is a call to action that echoed powerfully in Addis Ababa during the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU). At the heart of this gathering was a defining message: reparations for Africans and people of African descent are both a moral imperative and an economic necessity. This session on reparative justice highlighted Africa’s enduring colonial scars and the pressing need to address historical and systemic injustices.

Mr. Claver Gatete, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), delivered a compelling address on the structural inequalities that continue to hinder Africa’s economic growth. From the transatlantic slave trade to colonial-era resource extraction, Africa has suffered relentless economic dispossession. Yet, paradoxically, it remains one of the world’s most resource-rich continents. It holds 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, 40% of its gold, and up to 90% of its chromium and platinum. Additionally, 65% of the world’s arable land lies within its borders. Despite these vast resources, Africa accounts for less than 3% of global trade and only 1% of global manufacturing output—an economic imbalance that calls for urgent redress.

The historical context of this economic injustice is deeply rooted in Africa’s past. The Berlin Conference of 1884–85, orchestrated by European powers, led to the arbitrary partitioning of the continent, disregarding existing ethnic and political boundaries. This facilitated a system of forced labour and ruthless exploitation of Africa’s wealth. Under King Leopold II’s rule, for example, an estimated 10 million Congolese perished between 1885 and 1908 due to brutal colonial policies in the Congo Free State.

Similarly, the transatlantic slave trade, spanning the 16th to 19th centuries, forcibly removed millions of Africans from their homeland, stripping the continent of its human capital and leaving a legacy of suffering. The effects of these atrocities persist today in the form of systemic racism and global economic disparities.

The injustice extends beyond historical exploitation. Africa remains significantly under-represented in international financial institutions. The International Monetary Fund (IMF), for instance, allots the entire African continent the same voting share as Germany, despite its 54 sovereign nations. Additionally, biased credit rating systems label most African economies as high-risk, increasing borrowing costs and deepening cycles of debt.

One of the most striking economic paradoxes discussed during the session was Africa’s disproportionate burden in the fight against climate change. Despite contributing the least to global carbon emissions, Africa bears the brunt of climate disasters, losing up to 5% of its GDP to climate-related damages annually. Yet, from the US$10 trillion invested globally in clean energy between 2015 and 2022, Africa received just 2%. This glaring disparity underscores the need for equitable climate financing mechanisms that recognise Africa’s vulnerabilities and provide substantial funding for adaptation and mitigation.

To address these injustices, Mr. Gatete outlined five crucial pathways:

1. Reforming the Global Financial System—Advocating for debt restructuring, fair credit assessments, and greater African representation in global financial decision-making.
2. Harnessing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)—Strengthening intra-African trade, industrialisation, and regional value chains in a market of 1.5 billion people with a combined GDP of over US$3 trillion.
3. Maximising Resource Value Addition—Shifting from raw material exports to local processing industries that create jobs and economic growth for Africans.
4. Engaging the African Diaspora—Mobilising the global African community for economic investment, cultural partnerships, and heritage-based initiatives.
5. Fostering Free Movement and Regional Integration—Implementing the AU Protocol on Free Movement of Persons to unlock economic opportunities and unity.

Justice for Africa is not just about historical reparations—it is about reclaiming economic sovereignty, securing fair access to global markets, and dismantling structures that sustain African dependency. As Africa asserts its rightful place on the world stage, the AU’s commitment to reparative justice serves as both a rallying cry and a strategic blueprint. The time for action is now, and the world must listen.

King Richard Igimoh is an award-winning communication strategist with over two decades of experience in the field. He excels in Diplomacy, Journalism, Economic and International Affairs. As the Group Editor and a key member of the management team at the African Leadership Organisation, he continues to contribute significantly to promoting Africa’s dignity and opportunities globally

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The campaign, which began in November 2023, was marked by debates, policy pledges, and high drama involving both candidates and their supporters. Throughout, the international community paid close attention to the foreign policy platforms, particularly concerning economic policy, climate change, and security – especially given the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and between Israel and Hamas.

During Trump’s first term (2017-2021), his administration’s foreign policy, rooted in the “America First” doctrine, was often controversial. The approach led to a withdrawal from multilateral engagements and a marked decrease in U.S. development aid to Africa, prioritising trade relationships over traditional aid. This shift created unease among African leaders and institutions, as the U.S. is Africa’s largest humanitarian donor, contributing over five billion dollars annually.

Following Trump’s victory on 5th November 2024, the global economy responded immediately: Bitcoin surged to an all-time high of over $75,000, the U.S. stock market increased in value to 1.28 trillion dollars, and over ten of the world’s wealthiest individuals saw their collective worth rise by 25 billion dollars. These economic movements have been attributed to confidence in the anticipated direction of the Trump administration.

Trump’s return to office comes at a challenging time for Africa, which is grappling with severe conflicts, including the ongoing Sudan crisis and the threat posed by Houthis around the Horn of Africa. African leaders may hope for support from the Trump administration, particularly regarding recent coups on the continent and pledges to return these nations to democratic governance.

The Middle East’s ongoing instability has also impacted Africa, particularly regarding energy supplies and security. Weapons flowing from Middle Eastern conflicts often end up in Africa, fuelling insurgencies and destabilising already vulnerable regions. This phenomenon is particularly concerning with respect to the Israeli government’s current conflicts with Hamas and Hezbollah in Palestine and Lebanon. Fighters from these groups frequently migrate to Africa after setbacks in the Middle East, perpetuating violence on African soil.

In his first term, Trump criticised the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), arguing it might disadvantage U.S. businesses. However, he pursued enhanced trade relations with countries like Nigeria and Kenya through individual agreements. Analysts expect that his administration may further reduce U.S. aid programmes to Africa, particularly in health, education, and economic development, potentially creating a gap that other powers, such as China, might seek to fill through loans and infrastructure projects.

READ ALSO:  The Future of Trade: Africa’s Transport Networks

Trump’s restrictive immigration policies have previously targeted migrants from specific countries, affecting thousands of Africans seeking economic opportunities or refuge from conflict. African students, professionals, and families hoping for a better life in the U.S. may now face increased scrutiny and reduced opportunities.

While some African leaders may view Trump’s policies as pragmatic, particularly those prioritising non-interference and business deals, others may regard a second Trump term as a continuation of a U.S. foreign policy that sidelines Africa’s strategic significance. Ultimately, the impact of Trump’s victory on Africa will depend significantly on how individual African nations navigate their geopolitical and economic priorities, seeking new partnerships and diversifying relations with powers such as China, Russia, and the European Union.

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Strategic Investments and Key Sectors

The UAE has invested over ZAR 1 billion in South Africa, creating significant employment opportunities, particularly in sectors like energy, where UAE-based AMEA has collaborated with South African stakeholders like Green Co. This partnership addresses South Africa’s escalating energy demands and positions the UAE as a crucial player in South Africa’s energy transition. The UAE’s Etihad Credit Insurance initiative also strengthens investment in South Africa’s agricultural and food production sectors, which is especially valuable as food security is a priority for the UAE, a country that imports approximately 90% of its food​.

Expanding Trade Opportunities and Sectoral Focus

Trade between the two countries is poised for further growth following the recent signing of multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements focus on sectors that leverage the UAE’s strong logistics and financial infrastructure, alongside South Africa’s resources and market potential in agriculture and tourism. Additionally, bilateral agreements are opening up UAE’s domestic aviation routes to South African airlines, facilitating increased tourist flows to South Africa, a strategy expected to have a ripple effect on South Africa’s local economies​.

Diplomatic and Economic Symbiosis

South Africa’s recent decision to add the UAE to its visa waiver list underlines the broader diplomatic intent to foster ease of travel and strengthen people-to-people connections. This step also paves the way for the South African expatriate community in the UAE, currently numbering over 114,000, to act as ambassadors promoting cross-cultural and economic ties. In the diplomatic arena, the UAE’s growing interest in South-South relations through platforms like the BRICS Summit is aligned with South Africa’s leadership role within this bloc, further expanding the cooperative potential​.

Future Prospects and International Influence

Looking ahead, the UAE-South Africa partnership is set to address both nations’ post-pandemic economic recovery priorities, focusing on infrastructure, job creation, and sustainable energy. With Expo 2020 Dubai and South Africa’s forthcoming BRICS presidency, both countries are poised to leverage global platforms to enhance their visibility and influence on international economic and environmental issues, from climate action to advanced tech solutions​.

The UAE’s investments are transforming its partnership with South Africa from traditional trade links into a multifaceted alliance spanning innovation, sustainability, and economic recovery. This evolving relationship not only strengthens their national economies but also provides a blueprint for emerging market partnerships.

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The introduction of the BRICS banknote aims to strengthen collaboration and facilitate trade among member nations, promoting financial stability and offering an alternative to the Western-dominated financial system. This development is significant for Africa, where several countries, including newly added members like Nigeria and Algeria, have strong financial ties to Western powers.

During the Russia-Ukraine war, Russia faced numerous economic sanctions from the European Union and other international institutions. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated, “The dollar remains the most important tool in global finance, but using it as a political weapon undermines trust in the currency. If they (the West) block us, we’ll find alternatives.” This sentiment paved the way for the BRICS banknote, whose primary goal is to simplify cross-border transactions among member states.

The banknote has the potential to provide a more stable medium for trade by reducing transaction costs and time, particularly given the currency volatility and exchange rate risks prevalent in Africa. Businesses trading across African nations could benefit from settling payments in a common currency, thereby reducing currency conversion expenses and uncertainties.

The introduction of the BRICS banknote could also strengthen regional economic ties by fostering closer collaboration among BRICS nations and promoting economic growth. A common currency would allow countries to better align their economic policies and reduce trade barriers, potentially increasing intra-African trade. This, in turn, could improve supply chain efficiencies and enable countries to leverage one another’s economic strengths.

However, the effective utilisation of the BRICS banknote faces several challenges, including political instability, varying economic conditions, and differing regulatory frameworks among member states. Historical tensions, divergent political agendas, and competition for resources could further hinder cooperation. Additionally, the initiative could strain relationships between BRICS nations and Western powers, highlighting the need for open dialogue and a framework that promotes mutual benefit.

The BRICS banknote could also influence trade policies across Africa by encouraging African nations to align their trade frameworks with BRICS objectives. This focus on the BRICS currency might prompt African nations to develop their own regional currencies, bolstering economic sovereignty and reducing dependency on foreign currencies.

The implications of the BRICS banknote for intra-African trade are significant and multifaceted. By streamlining transactions, fostering regional cooperation, and influencing trade policies, this initiative has the potential to enhance economic integration across the continent. However, successful implementation will require overcoming challenges related to political trust and economic alignment.

As Africa continues to shape its economic future, the BRICS banknote could serve as a catalyst for a more interconnected and prosperous trading environment. In the long term, this initiative could not only bolster intra-African trade but also position the continent as a key player in the global economy, leveraging its abundant resources and youthful population.

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The Evolution of the UN General Assembly

Established in 1945 following the World War II, the United Nations was founded to promote peace, security, and cooperation among nations. Originally comprising 51 member states, the organisation has since expanded to 193. Leaders from two non-member observer states—the Holy See and the State of Palestine—along with representatives from the European Union, also participate in the Assembly.

A Tradition of Speeches: Who Speaks and When?

Brazil traditionally opens the general debate, a practice rooted in the early years of the UN when Brazil was often the first to volunteer to speak. Following Brazil, the United States, as the host country, delivers the second speech. After these initial addresses, speakers are scheduled based on a first-come, first-served basis, with heads of state and government receiving priority.

This year, around 87 heads of state, including US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and other African leaders, will address the Assembly. Other key speakers include Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Altogether, more than 140 dignitaries will speak, with leaders encouraged to adhere to a voluntary 15-minute time limit, though exceptions are often made.

Key Themes for 2024: Leaving No One Behind

This year’s General Debate is centred on the theme, “Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity for present and future generations.” As usual, leaders will use this platform to address a wide range of global and national  issues.

The War in Gaza

The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has drawn significant global attention. With casualties exceeding 41,000, the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen. Leaders, particularly from the Middle East and Europe, are expected to renew calls for a ceasefire, echoing previous UNGA resolutions. Both Israeli and Palestinian representatives will deliver speeches later in the week, likely offering perspectives on the conflict.

The Russia-Ukraine War

Now in its third year, the war between Russia and Ukraine remains a critical issue in global diplomacy. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is expected to make a much-anticipated address calling for continued international support. Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will follow later in the week. Many leaders will reiterate calls for an end to the conflict, some reaffirming past UNGA resolutions condemning Russia’s actions and urging the Russian troops.

Climate Change: Urgency in Action

As climate-related disasters devastate vulnerable regions, particularly small island nations, the Assembly is expected to see strong demands for immediate action to tackle global warming. Leaders from countries most affected by rising sea levels and extreme weather events will make urgent pleas for accelerated efforts to meet climate targets, including the goal to limit global temperature increases to 1.5°C. Climate financing, renewable energy transitions, and global commitments will dominate many of the speeches.

UN Security Council Reform

Calls for reform of the UN Security Council will once again take centre stage. Countries like Brazil, India, Germany, and Japan have long advocated for the restructuring of the 15-member body, arguing that it no longer reflects the realities of the modern world. Reform proposals include expanding membership and limiting the veto powers currently held by the five permanent members: the US, Russia, China, the UK, and France. African leaders are expected to push for greater representation, highlighting the continent’s demand for a permanent seat on the Council.

The Role of African Leaders

African leaders are likely to focus on issues such as economic development, peace, security, and international cooperation. Key topics will include the crisis in Sudan, efforts to combat illicit arms trade, and Africa’s participation in global climate initiatives. These leaders are also expected to advocate for more equitable global governance, including representation on the Security Council.

Moving Forward: The Role of Diplomacy in a Fractured World

As the UNGA session progresses, leaders are expected not only to focus on immediate crises but also on broader questions of global governance, security, and sustainability. While the Assembly offers a platform for countries to voice their concerns, the true test will be whether their speeches translate into concrete actions.

With major conflicts unresolved, a worsening climate crisis, and mounting calls for institutional reform, the 2024 General Assembly may prove to be a turning point in how the international community addresses these challenges.

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Originally, the BRICS group was identified to highlight investment opportunities in what were projected to be the world’s growing economies. However, in recent years, it has evolved into a geopolitical group with annual meetings, summits, and coordinated policies. The original members of the group are Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. On 1 January 2024, they were joined by Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. The BRICS countries are often regarded as the unofficial rivals of the G7.

BRICS nations account for approximately 30% of the world’s land surface and 45% of the global population. South Africa is the largest economy in Africa, while Brazil, Russia, India, and China are among the world’s ten largest countries by population, area, and gross domestic product (GDP). The initial five members of the BRICS group are also members of the G20. As of 2018, they had a combined nominal GDP of US$28 trillion (27% of global Gross World Product), a total GDP (PPP) of around US$57 trillion (33% of global GDP PPP), and an estimated US$4.5 trillion in combined foreign reserves.

The group’s economic achievements over the last 20 years have been remarkable, prompting deeper inquiry into its modus operandi to better understand the strengths of the group and how they navigate the challenges posed by modern-day economics.

Diversification

An examination of BRICS economies reveals that these countries practise economic diversification, meaning they do not rely on a single industry or product. China, for instance, has a manufacturing-focused economy and is a leader in technology and innovation. Its investments in artificial intelligence, 5G, and green technology have positioned it as a global tech powerhouse. Similarly, Brazil and South Africa have made significant advancements in agriculture, mining, and tourism, leveraging their rich natural resources and strategic geographic locations.

Infrastructure Investment

BRICS countries have successfully made infrastructure development a cornerstone of their economic strategy. Each of the BRICS countries is investing significantly in infrastructure development to support long-term growth. South Africa has focused on improving transportation, energy, and telecommunications infrastructure to facilitate trade and attract international investment. India’s infrastructure projects, such as the Smart Cities Mission, aim to boost urban development and economic connectivity.

Innovation and Technology

BRICS nations have made significant strides in technology and innovation. China’s technological advances have driven rapid growth in e-commerce, biotechnology, and electric vehicles, fuelled by government support for research and development (R&D). India, not far behind, has established itself as a global IT and tech innovation hub, with a thriving startup ecosystem and a strong emphasis on technology-driven solutions in sectors such as healthcare and education.

Economic Reform and Policy

The economic successes of the BRICS nations would not have been possible without the right economic reforms and prudent policy measures. Over the years, each member state has implemented economic policies that have achieved growth and stability. Russia, for instance, has shifted its focus away from oil, investing in sectors such as technology and agriculture. Brazil, on the other hand, has introduced reforms to improve its fiscal situation and ease of doing business, streamlining regulations and attracting foreign investment.

Building Human Capital

Investing in education and skill development has been a priority for BRICS nations. Human capital is crucial for long-term economic success, and these nations have spared no effort in maximising it. India and China have invested heavily in education and vocational training, building a skilled workforce to support diverse industries. Brazil and South Africa have initiated programmes to improve education and job readiness in their countries, further contributing to their economic growth and development.

The BRICS nations have displayed immense resilience through investments, policy reforms, and a focus on innovation and sustainability, which underpins their economic success. By diversifying their economies, investing in infrastructure, and fostering technological advancements, BRICS nations have positioned themselves as pivotal players in the global economy. It is crucial that African leaders review their strategies and resolve to achieve sustainable economic growth.

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This growing relationship promises to address global challenges including climate change, technological innovation, and economic inequality. The time is ripe for a bold, equitable partnership that harnesses Africa’s immense potential and the resources and expertise of industrialised nations.

Trade Relations: A New Era of Mutual Benefit

The trade relationship between Africa and the Global North has historically been asymmetrical, with Africa often exporting raw materials and importing finished goods. However, this dynamic is gradually shifting. In 2024, African countries are increasingly moving up the value chain, exporting more processed and manufactured goods. This shift is partly driven by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to create a single continental market for goods and services, potentially boosting intra-African trade by 52.3% by 2024.

The Global North, particularly the European Union (EU) and the United States, remains a vital trading partner for Africa. The EU-Africa Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) are pivotal frameworks facilitating trade. In 2024, these agreements are being re-negotiated to better align with Africa’s development goals, emphasising fair trade practices, technology transfer, and sustainable development.

Investment: Fostering Sustainable Growth

Investment flows from the Global North to Africa have seen significant growth, driven by the continent’s robust economic prospects. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Africa reached $47 billion in 2023, a 15% increase from the previous year. The focus of these investments is shifting towards sustainable and impact-driven projects, reflecting a global trend towards responsible investing.

Sectors such as renewable energy, technology, and infrastructure are receiving heightened attention. The African Development Bank (AfDB) has been instrumental in attracting investments into green projects, aiming to achieve a 40% energy share from renewable sources by 2040. Similarly, technology investments, particularly in fintech and agritech, are transforming economies, enhancing financial inclusion, and boosting agricultural productivity.

Sustainable Development: Aligning Goals and Actions

The alignment of sustainable development goals (SDGs) between Africa and the Global North is crucial for fostering long-term cooperation. Climate change, poverty alleviation, and healthcare are areas where collaborative efforts can yield significant benefits. The Global North’s commitment to supporting Africa’s climate resilience is evident through initiatives such as the European Green Deal, which includes provisions for supporting Africa’s green transition.

Healthcare cooperation has also intensified, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Global North has played a critical role in vaccine distribution and healthcare infrastructure support in Africa. The African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous and integrated Africa, aligns with the Global North’s sustainable development objectives, creating a framework for joint initiatives.

Geopolitical Considerations: Navigating Complex Systems

Geopolitical dynamics significantly influence the economic cooperation between Africa and the Global North. The rise of China as a major economic player in Africa introduces a competitive element. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has led to significant infrastructure investments across the continent, posing both opportunities and challenges for the Global North.

In response, Europe and the United States are enhancing their engagement strategies. The EU’s Global Gateway initiative aims to mobilise €300 billion by 2027 for infrastructure projects, providing an alternative to the BRI. Similarly, the United States’ Prosper Africa initiative seeks to double two-way trade and investment between the U.S. and Africa.

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Prime Minister Meloni has taken a step further in her administration’s foreign policy with her shift of focus to Africa. The Prime Minister, since the beginning of the 2024, has visited Egypt and Tunisia, the first of many trips to the continent. Italian government have declared their desire to explore deeper African ties with the advent of their new African foreign policy, ‘Mattei Plan’.

The Mattei Plan, named after Enrico Mattei, business mogul and founder of petroleum giant, ENI, marks a significant shift in the Italian foreign policy a strategic move in improving Italian interests. The policy adopts the ideology of leveraging partnerships and diplomatic maneuvers to strengthen mutual development and influence between the host nations and the Italian government.

The Mattei Plan was first announced on October 25, 2022 at Meloni’s investiture speech to the Chamber of Deputies, as a collaboration between the European Union and the African continent. The policy was initially aimed at containing Islamic radicalism in sub-Saharan Africa. But the need to follow in Enrico Mattei’s legacy in advocating energy independence and geopolitical influence was imbibed within the framework of the plan. With this, the Italian government aims to utilize the influence of ENI within the continent to accentuate its plans.

The Mattei Plan is predominantly an economic plan by the Italians to improve its infrastructure, energy and industrial investments across Africa. The policy is expected to focus on sustainable development projects to promote employment, technology transfer rather than the common resource extraction. This strategy is meant to enhance the host countries economic resilience and also cultivate a long-term bilateral relationship between Italy and the host country.

In today’s geopolitics, alliances between nations are crucial as they not only provide economic support between partnering nations, but also protects their interests in global politics. A good example of this is the USA-Israel alliance. With the Mattei Plan, Italy seeks to bolster its global political influence with the support from its African partners. Italy seeks to secure its position with other international players; USA, China and Russia. Deeper ties with Africa also improves Italy’s position in international forums and as a mediator in regional conflicts.

With the exit of the French from African countries like Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali, the Mattei plan can deepen Italy’s military presence in the continent and go a long way in resolving the varying conflicts within the Sub-Saharan Africa. Italy has over 250 military personnel in Niger, training local forces and combating jihadi violence.

READ ALSO: War in Sudan: Displacement, Economic Losses, and Efforts

The Mattei Plan has proposed ambitions plans and goals to accomplish within the African continent. But the stigma of neocolonialism still hovers in the air of the continent and as such the Mattei Plan has not been met with open arms. The depose of the French by Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso was an awakening for African nations and since then, there has been wariness of Western presence. This is going to be a hindrance to the actualization of the Mattei Plan by Giorgia Meloni’s administration.

The diverse landscape of the continent is also going to proffer a tough task ahead for the Italians. Africa is a multi-lingual and multi-tribal continent with diverse political orientation. Navigating through the political landscape and ensuring equitable distribution of economic benefits is going to prove difficult for the Italian government and will be influential in the long-term success of the policy.

The success of the Mattei Plan is going to depend greatly on Italy’s ability to ensure a sustainable partnership based on mutual respect and benefit.

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The surge of refugees from conflict zones in Africa has forced neighboring countries to open their borders to people fleeing these red zones in search of a better and safer home. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), there are over 30 million internally displaced persons, refugees, and asylum-seekers in Africa. It is expected that this figure which represents nearly one-third of the world’s refugee population should ring emergency bells in the ears of those in governance.

As every other nation sharing borders with conflict-ravaged nations, Rwanda, in 2017, opened its borders to refugees fleeing conflict zones and seeking haven in the country. The country under President Paul Kagame’s administration, also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the African Union, and UNHCR on 10 September 2019, to set up an Emergency Transit Mechanism (ETM) to secure evacuating refugees and asylum seekers due to the deteriorating security setting in Libya. Currently, Rwanda is home to over 135 thousand refugees.

This is why the UNHCR’s accusation of the Rwandan government’s neglect of refugees is startling. According to the UN agency, in a British court, deporting migrants and refugees to Rwanda would be a mistake as these refugees are at risk of their lives. The agency accused the government of conveying refugees and deported migrants to states where they risked torture or death.

The government of Rwanda in turn has denied this accusation by the UN agency, saying that the agency presented false information and “unserious allegations” against the African nation. According to a statement released by the government of Rwanda, “The organization seems intent on presenting fabricated allegations to UK courts about Rwanda’s treatment of asylum seekers, while still partnering with us to bring African migrants from Libya to safety in Rwanda.”

Both parties, UNHCR and the Rwandan government, have opposed each other’s opinion on the issue, at a crucial time when the British government, under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, plans to deport refugees to Rwanda. The plan by the British government has been a hot political issue and has caused a month of deadlock of deliberation between the upper and lower British parliament on the course to take.

One party has presented the civil and human rights abuses accusations against the government of Rwanda as the basis of refusing to authorize the deportation of these migrants to Rwanda, and the others have cited the need to deport these migrants who came into the country in their tens of thousands illegally mostly from war-torn regions.

The UNHCR in a statement said,” The UK-Rwanda Asylum partnership shifts responsibility for making asylum decisions and for protecting refugees.” Still, the Rwandan government in its defense said that the case being raised by the UN agency is the case with every other country ensuring that every migrant obtains legal status and meets the entry requirements of the country.

This ongoing debate between Rwanda and the UN agency transcends Rwanda, but the whole of Africa. This case serves as a reminder of the urgent need to answer the primary question of why these refugees flee Africa; the continuous conflicts in the continent. The issue throws more light on the need to address the various conflicts plaguing African regions. There would be no need for Africans to migrate to other continents in search of a better life if this need was met by their native governments.

This serves as a wake-up call to African leaders, governments, and international organizations, including the UNHCR. It’s imperative to eliminate political maneuvering from the chessboard and prioritize humanity to decrease conflicts and wars across Africa. These stakeholders must adopt a comprehensive approach to deter Africans from risking their lives in search of a better future, instead focusing on building stronger, more prosperous nations.

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China’s engagement with Africa represents a paradigm shift in international relations even with the dual challenge of balancing its strategic interests in Africa with international expectations, particularly amid geopolitical tensions. This tie has been a cornerstone of Chinese foreign policy since the conclusion of the Chinese Civil War in 1947. Interests in Africa intensified with initiatives like the Going Out strategy launched in 1999, encouraging Chinese companies to invest abroad. This strategy not only bolstered China’s economic influence but also stimulated employment opportunities for Chinese nationals through infrastructure projects across Africa.

A report from Statista on Africa-China relations reveals that in 2013, Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) to Africa exceeded that from the United States. The construction and mining sectors were the primary beneficiaries, receiving over 24 billion U.S. dollars in 2020. Also in 2020, Africa’s total export value to China reached nearly 62 billion U.S. dollars.

Western engagement in Africa, historically driven by colonial legacies and later by aid-driven development agendas, faces challenges in this new geopolitical landscape. While traditional partners such as the United States and European Union continue to provide significant financial aid, investments, and technical expertise, their influence is increasingly being tested by China’s proactive economic diplomacy which reflects the traditional Chinese worldview that China is the center of civilization.

Despite criticism from Western nations characterizing Chinese investment as ‘debt-trap diplomacy,’ China has maintained a non-interference policy in domestic affairs, a stark departure from the approach of Western nations. This stance resonates with African leaders prioritizing sovereignty and development over conditional aid and political demands. China’s engagement is often seen as pragmatic and mutually beneficial, fostering a narrative of South-South cooperation and shared developmental goals.

Western nations’ renewed interest in Africa is overdue, given the continent’s vital role in global affairs. Africa’s potential for future economic growth and its pivotal role in the green energy transition, fueled by rapid urbanization, a youthful demographic, and vast mineral resources, necessitate consistent and sustained engagement from Western powers.

The United States has recently turned its attention to Africa, however, these engagements according to reports, have been primarily focused on security issues and do not reveal a substantive strategy for meaningful interaction with the continent. An article by Ana Palacio, former minister of foreign affairs of Spain and former senior vice-president and general counsel of the World Bank Group brought to light the US-Africa trade which declined significantly, from $142 billion in 2008 to $64 billion in 2021.

Similarly, while the European Union (EU) maintains a trade relationship with Africa, it has struggled to establish a coherent approach or expand its engagement into other crucial areas. Criticisms over Europe’s inconsistent energy policies and mishandling of vaccine diplomacy have further complicated its standing.

In January 2023, China’s new foreign minister Qin Gang visited five African nations and the African Union, continuing this tradition of diplomatic outreach. Before him, former foreign minister Wang Yi had visited 48 African countries, while President Xi Jinping conducted ten visits between 2014 and 2020, underscoring the enduring importance of China-Africa relations in Chinese foreign policy.

The last US-Africa summit occurred nearly a decade ago, and no US president has visited Africa since 2015. Former President Donald Trump’s administration showed minimal interest in the continent, further straining diplomatic ties. A significant wake-up call occurred when 25 African countries abstained or did not participate in a United Nations vote last March, which condemned Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. This highlighted the growing disconnect between African nations and Western powers, who have historically used international law to advance their interests.

With substantial financial resources, a vast market for its goods, and a strategic vision encapsulated in initiatives like the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has swiftly become Africa’s largest trading partner. Infrastructure development spearheaded by Chinese firms has transformed the continent, linking previously isolated regions and laying the groundwork for accelerated economic growth.

READ ALSO: Shifting Alliances: The Rise of Russian Military Influence in West Africa Amid US Withdrawal

While China’s growing interest in Africa is largely driven by its need for natural resources to fuel its rapid economic growth, its engagement with the continent extends beyond the pursuit of oil and other raw materials. According to Marina Rudyak, a Sinologist at the Institute for East Asian Studies at the University of Heidelberg in Germany, China’s involvement in Africa is multifaceted.

“African countries receive support from China in the form of investment, trade, and development aid. In return, China receives political support in correlations between financial flows and the voting behavior of African states in the United Nations when it comes to issues that are relevant to China.” China believes that none of this is what Africa needs,” she added.

Interestingly, African nations do not perceive rivalry between Chinese and Western influence. According to Rudyak, while China is focused on infrastructure projects like building roads, the West offers different types of support. Africa, in turn, utilizes these diverse resources according to its requirements.

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