THE OLD COLONIAL POWERS ARE SEEKING TO RE-SET THEIR RELATIONSHIPS WITH AFRICA



In the face of growing global interest in Africa, such as China’s financing of infrastructure projects and Turkey’s commitment to doubling bi-lateral trade, the old colonial powers have started reconsidering their approach to the continent.

With the latest edition of the Africa-France Summit, previously known as the ‘France-Africa Summit’, which opened to civil society for the first time and had no heads of state present, France presented its desire to begin a new era of collaboration with Africa; one based on the engagement with African society at large and on people’s real needs, focused on mutual benefits and common understanding.

For old colonial powers to re-set their relationships with Africa there needs to be an acknowledgement of past mistakes. A renewed relationship will also seek to address previously unequal ties.

Humanitarian missions and aid must be replaced with greater collaboration, trade and partnerships. The new generation of young Africans committed to change must be invited to the table and engaged in the decision-making process.

In my latest blog, I explore the new phase of collaboration between colonial powers and Africa, discussing the necessary steps to foster success for both. To read more, please visit: https://dryayamoussa.medium.com/the-old-colonial-powers-are-seeking-to-re-set-their-relationships-with-africa-481b8d31831

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