The Case for Africa Hosting Its Own Summits
As African leaders continue flocking to summits in Tokyo, Paris, and Beijing, a critical question emerges: why does the continent continue to discuss its future on foreign turf? These meetings often yield familiar outcomes—pledges of loans, training programs, and infrastructure deals—yet they reinforce a narrative of dependence rather than self-determination. Despite an existing African Union decision to limit overseas delegation sizes, leaders still flock abroad, often prioritizing photo opportunities over pan-African transformation. This fragmented approach, while useful, undermines collective initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area and Agenda 2063, which envision continental infrastructure, energy grids, and digital integration. Analysts argue that for real progress to occur, Africa must host its own summits, negotiate as a unified bloc, and prioritize long-term structural change over short-term, piecemeal projects.
Empowering Africa through Self-Determination
It is time for Africa to take control of its own narrative and future. By hosting its own summits, the continent can create a space for genuine dialogue, collaboration, and decision-making. This shift towards self-determination is crucial in moving away from a dependency mindset towards a more empowered and unified Africa.
Building a Stronger, United Africa
Hosting summits within Africa can foster a sense of unity and solidarity among African nations. By negotiating as a unified bloc, the continent can leverage its collective strength and resources to achieve common goals and initiatives. This approach is vital in advancing projects like the African Continental Free Trade Area and Agenda 2063.
Driving Long-Term Structural Change
By prioritizing long-term structural change over short-term projects, Africa can lay the foundation for sustainable development and growth. Hosting its own summits allows the continent to focus on strategic planning, policy implementation, and capacity building that will benefit African nations for generations to come.
The African Report
