PAUL T. SHIPALE (with inputs by Folito Nghitongovali Diawara Gaspar)
Introduction
Africa today finds itself in a paradoxical position, one that demands an introspection transcending the coldness of econometric language, delving into the depths of structural causes and existential implications for the continent’s self-determination. The continent is, unequivocally, one of the largest suppliers of the critical minerals and raw materials that form the bedrock of China’s industrial and technological ascendancy, such as cobalt from the Democratic Republic of Congo for electric batteries, oil from Angola to fuel its burgeoning industry, platinum from South Africa for advanced manufacturing, uranium from Namibia, a mineral of strategic importance for the growing demand for nuclear energy, and copper from Zambia for global infrastructure.
Yet, when Beijing orchestrated its most potent displays of prestige and global standing through its meticulously choreographed military parade of the 21st century and solemn commemoration of its 80th victory parade, Africa was relegated to the periphery and remained conspicuously absent from the grand stage of global influence. This does not constitute a mere statistical datum.
There are realities whose poignancy transcends mere numerical quantification. The current geopolitical landscape, wherein Africa’s vast mineral wealth underpins the meteoric rise of superpowers, represents, rather, the visceral cry of an economic and diplomatic paradigm in the process of profound disequilibrium, an echo vehemently amplified by the intellectual contributions that underscore the urgency of African agency.
From liberation to leverage: tracing the ties that bind Africa and China
African leaders are routinely ushered into the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), a platform ostensibly designed for partnership. However, the prevailing dynamic is starkly clear: China dictates the agenda, and Africa arrives in a fragmented fashion, often perceived as eager recipients of aid and infrastructure loans. The optics, regrettably, reduce Africa to a state of dependency, rather than asserting its rightful place as an equal partner. This arrangement, far from fostering genuine reciprocity, perpetuates a narrative that undermines the continent’s inherent dignity, sovereignty and strategic importance.
This contemporary reality stands in sharp contrast with a pivotal historical juncture. In 1971, it was the collective resolve and votes of African nations at the United Nations that decisively restored Beijing’s rightful seat, thereby breaking decades of diplomatic isolation. During the arduous liberation struggles of Southern Africa, China provided crucial training to freedom fighters and offered unwavering support to movements in Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa. In turn, African nations extended recognition and solidarity at a time when global acceptance of Beijing was far from assured, demonstrating a profound commitment to South-South solidarity.
We all remember the TAZARA railway constructed in the 1970s with Chinese support. This remains a tangible monument to that era of genuine South–South cooperation, as it strategically connected Tanzania and Zambia, bypassing apartheid South Africa, and symbolised a shared determination to dismantle colonial dependency and forge new pathways of development.
In addition, for decades, nations such as Angola, Tanzania, and Ghana sustained robust and long-standing ties with Beijing, built on mutual respect and shared aspirations. Yet, when China now stages its most symbolic event meticulously designed to project strength and influence, Africa is systematically relegated to the sidelines and as a footnote. This begs the critical question: was this exclusion accidental, or was it a calculated reflection of a persistent, albeit anachronistic, view of Africa’s lesser importance in geopolitics, rather than as a strategic co-architect of global power?
Facing forward, rising together: reclaiming Africa’s power in a new global order:
Before we are misconstrued, let us hasten to clarify that African leaders were neither humiliated nor forgotten at the back row.The reality is more complex.It is rather a question of limited influence in global power politics, which highlights the structural imbalance in international relations, where Africa’s sovereignty is often constrained by its lack of economic and military leverage compared to dominant global players.
Kwame Nkrumah’s prescient warning echoes and reverberates with renewed urgency in this context: “We face neither East nor West; we face forward.” He understood, with profound clarity, that unless Africa achieved genuine unity – not merely political independence but comprehensive continental integration – external powers would inevitably exploit its divisions. His vision of Pan-Africanism was not romanticism; it was, and remains, a strategic blueprint for dignity, self-reliance, and enduring influence.
So, what does a forward-looking Pan-Africanism mean in the context of geopolitics today? It means Africa must, with unwavering resolve, renegotiate its role on the basis of absolute equity and should insist on being consulted, as an equal, in the governance and strategic direction of global trade corridors.
Moreover, Africa must reclaim its symbolic place on the global stage. Africa must proactively build platforms of its own continental forums, industrial summits, and even cultural showcases that powerfully project Africa’s identity as a co-author of the global future and not just a passive recipient of external dictates. This is not to suggest disengagement from China, far from it. Africa’s relationship with Beijing is too significant and multifaceted to abandon, and in many instances, Chinese investment has indeed built essential infrastructure that has spurred development. For instance, according to the latest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report by the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Namibia (ACEN), Chinese enterprises in Namibia contributed N$16.7 billion in taxes in 2024, up from N$10.86 billion in 2020. But nevertheless, engagements must be rigorously grounded in reciprocity.
Conclusion
The People’s Republic of China will continue to be our all-weather friend. Our bonds of friendship were cemented in blood and forged in the trenches during the crucible of our struggle for freedom and independence. Nevertheless, the current arrangement where Africa is prominently visible at aid summits but conspicuously invisible at moments of true prestige is not merely unsustainable; it is an affront to Africa’s dignity, a profound undermining of its bargaining power, and a perpetuation of the logic of dependency. The choice before Africa is stark, yet clear.
We can continue arriving at summits with begging bowls, content with symbolic recognition and ephemeral aid packages, or we can stand united, demanding a rightful seat at the table of history. The former path ensures continued subordination. The latter requires courage, visionary leadership, and unwavering unity but promises, unequivocally, dignity, respect, and a future forged on Africa’s own terms.
As President Xi said on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory day “History cautions us that we must remain unwavering in our conviction in justice, unyielding in our commitment to peace, and unshakable in our confidence in the insurmountable strength of the people.”
President Xi also said, “Might may rule the moment, but right prevails forever.”
Justice, light and progress will inevitably triumph over evil, darkness and regression. At all times, we must advocate the common values of humanity, resolutely defend international fairness and justice, and ensure righteousness prevails and brightness shines in our world.”
Indeed, as President Xi aptly put it, “We humans all share the same planet. We must pull together in solidarity and harmony and ensure that the law of the jungle never makes a comeback. At all times, we must always commit to the path of peaceful development, stay resolved to safeguard global peace and tranquillity, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity.”
The world today is set ablaze, as we have recently witnessed what happened in Nepal and what is unfolding in France; people are demanding justice and fairness. Only a true cause that doesn’t sway away from its path of justice, truth and fairness will prevail in this tumultuous, volatile, unpredictable and turbulent world.
As Africa reflects on its indispensable role in the evolving world order, Nkrumah’s words resonate louder than ever: ‘We face forward.’ Only by facing forward together, with a unified vision and an unyielding commitment to self-determination, will Africa cease to be absent from history’s decisive moments and finally take its rightful place as a partner, not a pawn, in shaping the global future.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of our employers and this newspaper but solely our personal views as citizens and Pan-Africanists.
