Born and raised in Plateau State, Nshe’s upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of purpose and an early desire to contribute to his community. While specific details about his education remain scarce, his achievements in governance point to a leader with exceptional practical knowledge and an unrelenting drive for progress.

Nshe’s political career has been a steady ascent, characterised by a deep connection with the grassroots. His repeated elections and appointments as Chairman of Shendam Local Government Area attest to the trust he has garnered over the years. In every capacity, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the betterment of Shendam, a legacy evident in his infrastructure initiatives. One of his most celebrated projects was the installation of over 400 boreholes during his earlier terms, addressing a critical water scarcity issue and significantly enhancing the quality of life for the people. Yet, this achievement was marred by the neglect of subsequent administrations, leaving much of the infrastructure in disrepair. When Nshe returned as Transition Committee Chairman, he immediately prioritised the rehabilitation of these boreholes, showcasing his dedication to sustainable and practical solutions.

But Nshe’s leadership extends beyond infrastructure. Insecurity has long plagued Shendam, as it has many regions in Nigeria, with issues ranging from kidnappings to other criminal activities disrupting daily life. Nshe tackled these challenges head-on, partnering with law enforcement and local leaders to implement proactive measures that have substantially reduced crime in the area. His firm stance against criminal elements, reinforced by his actions, has restored a sense of safety to Shendam. Residents now speak of a renewed confidence, a testament to his leadership’s positive impact on the community’s psyche.

Equally noteworthy is Nshe’s approach to social welfare. His leadership style is inclusive, valuing the input and participation of all stakeholders—traditional leaders, youth groups, women’s associations, and religious figures. This collaborative ethos has not only strengthened community ties but has also driven meaningful interventions. A prime example was his distribution of food supplies during the festive season, an act that provided much-needed relief to families and fostered communal unity. These gestures, while seemingly small, underline Nshe’s deep empathy and his commitment to the well-being of his constituents.

However, Nshe’s path has not been without obstacles. His assumption of office as Transition Committee Chairman was met with resistance from loyalists of his predecessor, Hon. Alex Nantuam. Efforts to prevent his inauguration were swiftly quelled by the support of security forces and the overwhelming backing of his party, the PDP. Such challenges might have derailed a less determined leader, but Nshe’s resilience and focus on his mission carried him through. He has since dedicated himself to reuniting a divided Shendam, fostering a sense of common purpose among its people, and ensuring that development takes precedence over political squabbles.

Hon Kemi Nshe, Executive Chairman, Shendam LGA, Plateau state, Nigeria

Nshe’s vision for Shendam is clear: a thriving, secure, and inclusive community where every resident has the opportunity to succeed. His leadership priorities—restoring and maintaining vital infrastructure, enhancing security, and fostering economic development—reflect a holistic approach to governance that aims to address both immediate needs and long-term aspirations. By creating an environment conducive to growth, he hopes to inspire a new generation of leaders who will continue to build on his legacy.

As Nichokas Kemi Nshe’s tenure continues, his story becomes one of hope and inspiration, not just for the people of Shendam but for Plateau State and beyond.  His achievements serve as a powerful reminder that effective leadership requires more than just occupying a position of power; it demands a genuine commitment to making a difference in people’s lives. Through his actions, Nshe has proven that resilience, vision, and empathy are the cornerstones of impactful leadership. As Shendam reaps the benefits of his governance, Nshe’s legacy will endure as a beacon of what is possible when leaders prioritise their people above all else. No wonder he recently got a nomination as the African Local Government Leader of the Year.

The post Kemi Nshe: A Pillar of Leadership in Shendam & Beyond appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

These trailblazers are not only shaping the continent’s future but also exporting African ingenuity to the world. Their stories form a tapestry of resilience, creativity, and ambition—a movement that breaks barriers, transcends borders, and redefines possibilities.

A 2024 report by the African Union Commission and the OECD highlights a critical gap: across 15 African countries, only 9% of youth aged 15–24 possess basic computer skills. Similarly, only 10% of the male workforce and 7% of the female workforce have these competencies. Enhancing digital literacy and technical expertise is essential for Africa to remain competitive in the global economy and to drive sustainable growth.

READ ALSO: Can Africa Achieve a STEM Education Revolution?

By 2030, young Africans are projected to constitute 42% of the global youth population and 75% of those under 35 within Africa. While this demographic boom presents an immense opportunity for economic growth, innovation, and job creation, it also underscores the pronounced skills gap in STEM fields—a challenge that must be addressed urgently.

To meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in engineering, healthcare, IT, and other vital sectors, Africa will require an additional 23 million STEM graduates by 2030 to fill key roles.

From Baobab Roots to Silicon Heights

African innovators in STEM draw inspiration from the continent’s rich traditions and inherent resilience. Like the sturdy baobab tree, their ideas are deeply rooted in African soil, yet their branches extend globally.

The late Dr Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmentalist and biologist, epitomised this ethos by blending scientific principles with grassroots activism. Her efforts earned Africa its first Nobel Peace Prize and continue to inspire scientists addressing climate change through green technology innovations.

In Ethiopia, Dr Segenet Kelemu, a molecular plant pathologist, has revolutionised agricultural science. As the first African woman to lead the International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), she has tackled food insecurity by promoting eco-friendly pest control solutions, influencing agricultural research worldwide.

Guiding the Future

Across the continent, STEM icons illuminate the path for a new generation of thinkers and creators. Silas Adekunle, the Nigerian robotics engineer behind the world’s first gaming robot, is one such beacon. His company, Reach Robotics, redefined the intersection of robotics and entertainment, capturing the interest of investors globally.

In Rwanda, Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation, is steering the nation towards a digital renaissance. Initiatives like the Kigali Innovation City showcase Rwanda’s transformation into a technological hub, exemplifying how policy and science can synergise to drive economic growth.

Bridges of Knowledge

Africa’s STEM pioneers are bridge-builders, connecting local challenges to global opportunities. Dr Cheick Modibo Diarra, a Malian astrophysicist and former NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory engineer, exemplifies this spirit. His work on interplanetary missions, such as the Mars Pathfinder, inspires African youth to view the universe as a canvas for exploration. After his tenure at NASA, he returned to Africa to champion education and technology, proving that global impact and local development can coexist.

Similarly, in healthcare, Dr Ola Brown, founder of Flying Doctors Nigeria, is closing critical healthcare gaps through aviation. Her air ambulance services dramatically reduce medical response times in remote areas, blending engineering, logistics, and medicine to save lives and foster global health-tech partnerships.

Mining Africa’s STEM Potential

Africa’s digital revolution is driven by innovators who see data as the new frontier of wealth creation. Dr Nneile Nkholise, a South African mechanical engineer, has harnessed data in creating 3D-printed prosthetics through her company, iMed Tech. Her work addresses healthcare infrastructure challenges, enhancing lives and showcasing the potential of digital fabrication technologies on the continent.

Dr Rebecca Enonchong, a Cameroonian tech entrepreneur, further demonstrates how data can propel inclusive growth. Her company, AppsTech, has delivered enterprise software solutions to over 50 countries, affirming Africa’s capability to export technological expertise.

STEM Stars

Mentorship and education are twin engines propelling African STEM leaders onto the global stage. Initiatives such as Africa Code Week, supported by global partners, have trained over 10 million young Africans in coding and programming since 2015. These programmes ensure that the brilliance of STEM luminaries continues to inspire aspiring innovators.

For example, Ghana’s Ivy Barley founded Developers in Vogue to empower African women with tech skills, addressing gender disparity in STEM. Her work enables a generation of women to shatter glass ceilings with algorithms and code.

Africa must invest in its STEM ecosystem to sustain this wave of innovation. Currently, the continent contributes less than 1% of global scientific research output, according to UNESCO. This stark statistic underscores the urgent need for greater funding and institutional support. Initiatives such as the African Union’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024 (STISA-2024) aim to address this gap, but progress requires concerted efforts from governments, private sectors, and international partners.

Writing the Next Chapter

The story of African icons in STEM is one of resilience, ingenuity, and boundless potential. By addressing local challenges with solutions of global relevance, they are shaping a future where African innovation takes centre stage in tackling humanity’s greatest problems. The baobab of African STEM has taken root, and its branches will only grow stronger, shading the world with the promise of progress.

The post African Icons in STEM: Leading Innovation Beyond Borders appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Africa’s rich artistic heritage, rooted in its status as the cradle of civilisation, once thrived on creativity, education, and knowledge. This cultural wealth, however, was exploited by Western powers, who dismissed the grandeur they encountered on a continent they termed the “dark continent.” Iconic treasures such as the Benin Bronzes, Nok terracotta figures, Timbuktu manuscripts, and Egyptian wooden sarcophagi were taken.

The Extent of the Plunder

According to a 2007 UNESCO Forum on Cultural Artifacts, between 90% and 95% of sub-Saharan Africa’s cultural artefacts are held outside the continent. Many pieces were acquired during the colonial era and remain in museums across Europe and North America.

READ ALSO: Dorze Village: A Cultural Haven in the Highlands of Ethiopia

The 2007 UNESCO Forum on Cultural Artifacts coincided with the Universal Forum of Cultures held in Monterrey, Mexico. The event was aimed at promoting dialogue among diverse cultures and was marked by an emphasis on the importance of cultural exchanges. The forum was part of broader discussions emphasized by UNESCO during its 34th General Conference regarding access to cultural property and the significance of preserving cultural identities.

European museums, in particular, house significantly larger collections than their American counterparts. For example, the British Museum has 73,000 African items; the Netherlands’ National Museum of World Cultures holds 66,000; Germany’s Ethnological Museum has 75,000; France’s Quai Branly Museum keeps over 70,000; and Belgium’s Royal Museum for Central Africa boasts an astounding 180,000 items. In contrast, fewer than 50,000 African artefacts are believed to exist in all U.S. museum collections combined.

Artifacts in Western Custody

African artefacts remain scattered across Western museums, private collections, and institutions. Sadly, many nations in the West resist returning these works to their rightful African owners, despite the unethical circumstances under which they were taken.

One infamous example is the Benin Bronzes, looted during the British punitive expedition of 1897. Thousands of pieces were stolen and dispersed globally. During the colonial period, imperial powers systematically seized countless artefacts, motivated by scientific curiosity, cultural appropriation, and financial gain. Many of these acquisitions were achieved through coercion, violence, or exploitative trade.

Even after independence, the theft of African cultural heritage persisted. Smuggling, looting, and illegal excavations continue to threaten the continent’s cultural legacy.

The Case for Repatriation

The question of who should care for Africa’s cultural heritage—European institutions that have housed these items for decades or the African societies that created them—has lingered since the wave of African independence movements in the mid-20th century.

However, repatriating African artefacts is far more than a sentimental gesture; it is a cultural, historical, and economic imperative. Returning these treasures preserves Africa’s cultural legacy for future generations. Artefacts, restored to their original contexts, allow African cultures to evolve and reclaim their narratives.

The Benin Bronzes, for instance, were among the first African works of art to captivate Europeans, sparking curiosity among scholars, artists, and the public. Repatriation would nurture a sense of pride and cultural identity for Africans. As Ikhuehi Omonkhua, chief exhibition officer of the National Museum in Benin City, poignantly states, “Keeping them abroad is like holding our ancestors hostage.”

Artefacts also serve as invaluable historical records, offering insights into the art, technology, and ideologies of past societies. Repatriation enables African nations to study and document their histories on their terms. Furthermore, these treasures can revitalise tourism and cultural sectors, attracting visitors, generating revenue, and creating jobs.

Addressing Historical Injustice

The theft of African artefacts was often accompanied by violence, exploitation, and cultural insensitivity. Repatriation represents an opportunity to acknowledge and atone for historical injustices. While the process of returning stolen items is fraught with challenges—such as disputes over ownership, the fragility of artefacts, and the associated costs—progress has been made through international awareness and advocacy.

Moving Forward

To make repatriation a lasting reality, several steps are essential:
1. Strengthen International Laws: Develop and enforce robust global frameworks to prevent the unauthorised trade of cultural property.
2. Boost Collaboration: Foster partnerships among museums, governments, and cultural organisations to streamline the repatriation process.
3. Invest in Cultural Management: African countries must invest in facilities and expertise to safeguard and manage their cultural assets effectively.
4. Raise Public Awareness: Educate the public on the value of cultural heritage and the detrimental effects of illicit trafficking in artefacts.

The historical theft of African artefacts has profoundly impacted the continent’s cultural identity and legacy. Repatriation not only restores dignity but also fosters a greater appreciation of Africa’s rich heritage. Alongside the return of physical artefacts, it is crucial to acknowledge the wrongs of the past and work towards a fairer future for all cultures.

As negotiations over repatriation continue, institutions that have long held these treasures must take responsibility and actively participate in the journey toward justice. Only then can we begin to restore what was lost and ensure Africa’s cultural wealth benefits its people once again

The post Africa’s Stolen Heritage: Why Repatriation of Artefacts Matters appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

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.

The post BRICS Banknote: The Implications Banknote on Intra-African Trade appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The transatlantic slave trade, which spanned from the 16th to the 19th century, was foundational to the British Empire’s economy. In 1833, the British government passed the Slavery Abolition Act, which freed enslaved people throughout the empire. However, the compensation paid at the time—£20 million—was given to slave owners rather than those enslaved. This payment, amounting to 40% of the UK’s annual budget, was repaid by taxpayers up until 2015​.

In response to this history, CARICOM established a Reparations Commission in 2013. The commission outlined a Ten-Point Plan for reparatory justice, which includes formal apologies, debt cancellation, and development support from former colonial powers​. CARICOM continues to call for a summit with European nations, including the UK, to discuss these issues at the highest diplomatic levels.

READ  ALSO: Inside UK’s Battle Against False Narratives

Current Developments and UK Government’s Response

Under the new Labour government, Caribbean leaders are cautiously optimistic that the UK might reconsider its stance. Historically, the UK government has resisted calls for reparations, focusing instead on development aid as a form of assistance​. The chair of the CARICOM Reparations Commission, Sir Hilary Beckles, has expressed hopes that the Labour administration, with figures like Foreign Secretary David Lammy—himself of Caribbean descent—might be more open to discussions​.

Recent international meetings, such as the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government summit in Samoa, are seen as key opportunities for advancing this dialogue. Leaders from across the Caribbean, including Prime Minister Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago, have emphasized the importance of addressing these issues as part of a broader effort to achieve justice for the region​.

Broader Implications

While reparations remain a complex and sensitive issue, Caribbean leaders are focused on achieving reconciliation that goes beyond financial compensation. CARICOM’s Ten-Point Plan, for example, emphasizes restorative justice, including educational reform, public health improvements, and cultural development​. These broader goals reflect a vision for addressing the long-term effects of slavery and colonialism.

The British public and political landscape, however, present challenges to these discussions. Surveys have shown that a majority of the UK population is not in favour of reparations, and previous governments have maintained that reparations are not the solution​. As the UK navigates its post-Brexit future and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains to be seen whether there is sufficient political will to engage in reparatory talks.

As Caribbean leaders continue to call for reparations and reconciliation, they hope the UK government will engage in constructive dialogue on these complex issues. While the path forward is uncertain, the focus remains on addressing the historical legacy of slavery and ensuring that justice is served through meaningful and lasting measures. This ongoing conversation reflects the broader global movement toward acknowledging and addressing historical injustices.

The post Reparations and Reconciliation: Caribbean Leaders’ Hopes for the UK Government appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Akhannouch highlighted growing global uncertainty, driven by climate change, governance concerns, and shifting socio-economic landscapes. He noted that the collective security once guaranteed by the United Nations is now under threat, raising doubts about the current state of multilateralism. “Climate change has imposed a new reality,” he said, calling for immediate collective action.

Morocco’s head of government reaffirmed his country’s commitment to a multilateral diplomatic approach, aiming to address both security and development challenges without succumbing to short-term solutions. Akhannouch stressed that revitalising multilateralism requires reform and inclusion, particularly through the active participation of women and youth in shaping responses to modern challenges.

He further emphasised the international community’s responsibility to support African nations, which disproportionately bear the effects of climate change despite contributing minimally to the problem. He also called for innovative financial mechanisms to ease the debt burden on African nations, urging reforms in the global financial architecture to help developing countries secure the funding necessary for economic recovery.

As chair of the Group of Friends of Middle-Income Countries, Akhannouch reiterated Morocco’s commitment to finding solutions to bolster their economies. The Moroccan government is also heavily involved in initiatives like the Atlantic Initiative, aimed at linking Sahel countries—Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Chad—with the Atlantic Ocean, fostering peace, development, and security in the region.

Regarding regional conflicts, Akhannouch reaffirmed Morocco’s dedication to peaceful resolutions, particularly in the case of the Moroccan Sahara. He expressed support for the Secretary-General’s efforts to revive political dialogues in line with Security Council resolutions. He also voiced deep concern over the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, particularly in the occupied Palestinian Territory, underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.

Concluding his speech, Akhannouch called for United Nations reforms, urging the international community to reconsider its operational methods as the organisation approaches its 80th anniversary. His speech at UNGA 2024 marked a significant moment in Morocco’s diplomatic efforts, advocating for renewed multilateralism, climate action, and regional stability in an increasingly uncertain world.

The post UNGA 2024: Morocco’s Prime Minister Advocates for a New Era of Multilateralism appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

President Ramkalawan urged world leaders to take immediate action against the growing issue of gun violence, stressing the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of the world’s youth. With the global youth population projected to reach 2 billion by 2050, he emphasized the critical need to ensure a secure and prosperous future for the next generation.

In his speech, President Ramkalawan stated, “For Seychelles, the Declaration on Future Generations should signal our commitment to safeguarding the rights of all those who will be born by the end of this century, particularly in developing countries—individuals who should not be condemned to a life of hardship.”

The President highlighted that the world is less secure than it was a year ago, urging a return to foundational principles of dialogue and cooperation to secure the future for coming generations.

The youth population in Seychelles, defined as those aged 10-24, is part of a nation with an overall population of approximately 130,950 as of September 2024. Seychelles ranks 193rd in the world by population size, a status that has prompted President Ramkalawan to address global issues with such urgency.

According to Amnesty International, there are over 1 billion firearms in circulation globally, with the vast majority—85%—in the hands of private individuals. Military arsenals hold 13%, while law enforcement agencies possess just 2%.

Urban areas with low incomes and high crime rates, particularly those plagued by drug trafficking, are often the epicentres of gun violence perpetrated by private individuals. The lack of access to public services and ineffective law enforcement are significant contributors to the persistent violence in these regions.

President Ramkalawan’s call for action is not only a moral imperative but also a practical necessity. He urged world leaders to work together to “be the architects of a world where no one is left behind.” His speech serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for global cooperation to combat gun violence and secure a brighter future for the world’s youth.

As leaders gather at the United Nations General Assembly, they would do well to heed President Ramkalawan’s call for collective action and a steadfast commitment to protecting the rights of all people, including future generations.

The post Seychelles President Calls for Global Action to Combat Gun Violence appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), now transitioning to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), serves as a hallmark of the successful collaboration between the African Union and international partners. Deployed in 2007, AMISOM has played a crucial role in restoring stability to Somalia, which had been plagued by anarchy for 16 years. Notably, the mission has successfully driven out terrorist groups from key regions and reestablished governance in the country. The mission’s achievements are a testament to the effectiveness of African-led peacekeeping initiatives and their capacity to deliver tangible results.

The AU and AFRICOM have also supported the G5 Sahel Joint Force, a regional security initiative comprising Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger. This force addresses terrorism, cross-border crime, and human trafficking in the Sahel region. AFRICOM has provided training, equipment, and intelligence support to enhance the operational effectiveness of this force.

The financial underpinning of these missions relies heavily on significant international support. Major large-scale operations like ATMIS receive substantial funding from major donors, including the United Nations and the European Union. The African Union’s Peace Fund, which aims to raise $400 million, has thus far secured over half of this target, a significant step towards reaching its goal.

The Command’s involvement in Africa is multifaceted, encompassing a range of programmes designed to enhance the capacity of African armed forces. The Africa Contingency Operations Training and Assistance (ACOTA) programme, led by the US Department of State and supported by AFRICOM, provides critical training and equipment to improve the capabilities of the military.

AFRICOM’s security cooperation programmes focus on developing operational and institutional capacities, enhancing regional integration, and improving maritime security. These initiatives aim to strengthen regional stability and promote peace and security across the continent. By investing in the development of African militaries, AFRICOM aims to build a professional and disciplined military force in African nations.

Despite the progress made, African-led peacekeeping missions continue to encounter significant challenges. Financial constraints remain a major obstacle, as the African Union’s Peace Fund falls short of its financial targets. Furthermore, sustaining high standards of professionalism and addressing issues such as corruption and human rights abuses within deployed forces are ongoing concerns.

READ ALSO: African Women Pioneering Multilateral Diplomacy on a Global Stage

Notwithstanding these challenges, the collaborative efforts between the African Union and AFRICOM demonstrate the potential for effective regional and international partnerships to advance peace and security in Africa. To overcome the challenges, innovation and increased international support will be essential. This collaborative endeavour, characterised by resilience and adaptability, highlights the significance of sustained international support and regional commitment to peacekeeping in Africa.

The AU and AFRICOM’s collaborative endeavours are crucial for achieving sustainable stability in Africa. By highlighting their accomplishments and acknowledging the obstacles, it becomes clear that the AU and AFRICOM’s joint peacekeeping efforts are vital for developing effective and long-term solutions to Africa’s complex security challenges.

The post Peace through Partnership: AU and AFRICOM’s Role in African Security appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

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.

The post Geostrategic Shifts: China’s Influence vs. Western Engagement in Africa appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Democracy, Governance, and Human Rights

The U.S. and Kenya reaffirmed their commitment to shared democratic values and human rights. The State Visit emphasized the importance of inclusive, sustainable governance, and addressed the challenges of misinformation, hate-fueled violence, and corruption. The leaders announced nearly $40 million in U.S. funding for democracy and governance initiatives in Kenya, aimed at defending democratic processes, increasing women’s political participation, and advancing digital democracy.

Supporting Independent Civil Society

President Ruto’s signing of the legal instruments to operationalize the 2013 Public Benefits Organization Act was a significant step towards institutionalizing civil society protections. The U.S. announced $700,000 in new assistance, complementing the existing $2.7 million for civil society engagement and oversight, and an additional $1.9 million to support youth empowerment and disability inclusion initiatives.

Transparency and Open Government

The U.S. and Kenya committed to strengthening the Open Government Partnership, with USAID Administrator Samantha Power representing the U.S. at an upcoming OGP event. This collaboration aims to promote transparency and accountability in governance, showcasing a powerful global coalition on open government.

Combatting Corruption

The U.S. plans to provide significant funding to combat corruption in Kenya, including $500,000 for a new Fiscal Integrity Program, $500,000 for anti-corruption advocacy, and additional support for Kenya’s proposed Whistleblower Protection law. USAID’s $2.7 million funding aims to improve the enforcement of anti-corruption policies and laws.

Health Partnerships

Decades of U.S.-Kenya collaboration in the health sector have led to significant improvements. The leaders highlighted ongoing efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS, with the U.S. contributing over $7 billion through PEPFAR. They also discussed partnerships to enhance global health security, reduce malaria impacts, and expand local health manufacturing capabilities.

Digital Health Advancements

The U.S. announced over $31 million to support Kenya’s digital health initiatives. This includes deploying digital health solutions to improve disease prevention, response, and patient care, and supporting solar power solutions for health facilities to enhance emergency medical services.

Research and Innovation

The longstanding partnership between the CDC and the Kenyan Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) continues to thrive. The leaders committed to expanding research collaborations on malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, and other public health issues. The U.S. provided an estimated $12.9 million to support KEMRI’s research efforts.

Strengthening Law Enforcement and Justice

The U.S. and Kenya announced a new $7 million partnership to modernize and professionalize Kenya’s National Police Service. Additionally, the U.S. plans to provide $4.9 million to combat transnational organized crime and support criminal justice sector reforms in Kenya and other East African countries.

Promoting Human Rights

The U.S. and Kenya emphasized their commitment to upholding human rights. They announced bilateral dialogues and technical engagements to strengthen collaboration on security sector governance, atrocity prevention, and the Women, Peace, and Security agenda in Kenya and the region.

READ  ALSO: Security and Economy: How helpful is the US in Sudan?

Expanding Trade and Investment

The leaders discussed enhancing trade and investment between the two nations. They highlighted initiatives to boost local manufacturing of medical products, with the U.S. supporting Kenyan manufacturers through investments and partnerships to secure and diversify global supply chains.

President Ruto’s visit to the White House signifies a deepening of the U.S.-Kenya partnership, focusing on key areas that benefit both nations and contribute to global stability and prosperity. The commitments made during this visit lay a solid foundation for continued collaboration and mutual growth.

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