The recent tour of Africa by United States Vice President Kamala Harris has highlighted the ongoing power struggle between the United States and China for influence in Africa. While the two superpowers continue to engage in a geopolitical tussle for dominance, Africa has resorted to outdated cold war tactics that do not benefit the continent in any way.
It is disappointing to note that Africa continues to cling to outdated ideologies that do not consider the realities of the modern world. Instead of positioning itself as an equal partner globally, Africa has once again become a pawn in the geopolitical game between the United States and China. This is a grave mistake that will only lead to Africa being used as a battleground for the two superpowers, rather than being a beneficiary of their rivalry.
The visit by Vice President Kamala Harris is an opportunity for Africa to assert its independence and to take a pragmatic approach that will benefit the continent. Africa has vast untapped potential in terms of resources, human capital, and economic growth, but these will not be fully realized if the continent continues to be divided along ideological lines.
Instead of relying on the United States or China for support, Africa should seek to build strong partnerships with both powers, as well as with other global actors such as the European Union and Russia. This will ensure that Africa is not beholden to any one country but rather has a diversified portfolio of partners who can help it achieve its development goals.
Furthermore, Africa must take a more active role in shaping the global agenda. The continent has a population of over one billion people, yet it continues to be marginalized in international affairs. African leaders must assert themselves on the global stage and demand their voices be heard.
The ongoing power struggle between the United States and China should not be allowed to distract Africa from pursuing its own development agenda. The continent must take a pragmatic approach that seeks to maximize its own interests, rather than being drawn into the ideological battles of the superpowers.
In conclusion, Africa must adopt a more strategic and independent approach in its engagement with the United States and China. It is time for the continent to take charge of its own destiny and pursue partnerships that will benefit it in the long run. Failure to do so will only result in Africa being used as a pawn in the ongoing geopolitical game between the two superpowers, to the detriment of its own development.