Many African leaders are gearing up to attend the upcoming summit with China in Beijing next month. These gatherings have become a regular part of global summitry for leaders from the continent, with similar events hosted by the US, Russia, Italy, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and upcoming in Japan.
Reflecting on the plethora of diplomatic, security, and trade opportunities available to African nations, Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera likened the situation to having an all-you-can-eat buffet rather than just a Chinese meal. While Chinese interest in Africa peaked in 2016 with sovereign lending worth $28.4bn, other countries like Russia, India, the UAE, Turkey, and Brazil have shown increased interest in recent years.
Despite the growing attention from various potential investors, manufacturing in sub-Saharan Africa has declined over the years, with many countries still engaged in colonial-style trading relationships focused on exporting raw materials and importing finished goods. This lack of progress in diversifying economies has been termed as a story of missed opportunities.
While African countries have broadened their trading and investment relations with countries like India and the UAE, the influx of foreign interest comes with risks. Some African governments have borrowed excessively, leading to defaults and high debt distress levels in several countries. Kenya, for example, faced mass protests due to efforts to increase taxes to meet loan obligations.
African nations are now striving to define their national interests amidst competing interests from multiple foreign powers. Some countries, like South Africa, have adopted a non-aligned policy, engaging with various nations while pursuing investments from different regions. However, the lack of diplomatic and civil service capacity in many African nations poses challenges in effectively leveraging these relationships.
The influx of foreign interests in Africa has also led to concerns about potential destabilization, as seen in conflicts like the war in Sudan involving various external actors. Coups in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have resulted in shifts in alliances and increased violence in some cases. European countries view Africa as a potential source of instability, terrorism, and migration due to the continent’s growing population and political unrest.
As African countries navigate these complex dynamics, finding a middle way through diplomatic challenges and competing interests remains a significant challenge. The need for strategic decision-making and effective governance to leverage relationships with foreign powers while safeguarding national interests is crucial for African nations moving forward.
