Africa is often a footnote in global geopolitics. World powers view the continent not as a valuable ally but as a place to exert influence for their own gain. This is mainly because Africa lacks economies noteworthy on the world stage and real influence on global politics.
Challenges of Modern Africa
Africa is currently the poorest continent, with a GDP and GDP per capita near $2,000, far below the global average of $15,000. It is also the most unstable, experiencing multiple simultaneous conflicts. The continent is less democratic and more politically unstable than others. It lacks large companies competing with global giants like Microsoft, Apple, or Amazon and lags in innovation and startups. This situation has complex roots, but historical context helps pinpoint the main causes.
Causes of Africa’s Issues
Internal divisions among Africans hinder progress. When groups prioritize their own interests over the nation’s well-being, it undermines stability and development.
Corruption plagues Africa, with deeply rooted corruption among its rulers. This misappropriates funds meant for vital infrastructure.
The continent possesses abundant natural resources like oil, gold, and fertile soil. However, it lacks the resourcefulness to effectively utilize these assets.
High corruption and ineffective leadership prevent politicians from serving the people’s interests. This hinders the development of vital infrastructure needed for basic functions like reliable electricity and clean water.
The Parallels with 20th-Century East Asia
These problems are not unique to Africa. Many successful nations have faced similar challenges. China and South Korea once had impoverished populations and unstable governments. In the 1900s, these nations rebuilt after devastating wars, revolutions, and invasions. Their wealth then was comparable to the average African country. Today, the difference is stark. Before their economic booms, South Korea, China, and Singapore were roughly on par with the African average. Now, China’s GDP per capita is about six times greater, South Korea’s is 15 times greater, and Singapore’s is more than five times greater.
Economic Rise of East Asia
East Asia’s key advantage was leveraging its young, relatively poor populations to become manufacturing hubs. They began with cheap manufacturing but gradually shifted to producing advanced goods that could compete globally. Singapore charted a different course, capitalizing on its strategic location in South Asian trade routes to become a vital regional economy. Africa faces a similar situation to East Asia in the 1900s. The missing element is the effective leadership that lifted East Asia out of poverty. Since independence, there has been little evidence of Africa collectively addressing its challenges. The continent still faces huge issues with no clear path forward.
The Lessons to Be Learned from the Asian Tigers
Economic development varies by country. Europe’s path differs from America’s and East Asia’s. Africa must find its own way. The continent has a young, growing population, abundant resources, and a vast untapped market with the potential to generate trillions. Africans must first learn to effectively govern, stabilize, and build their nations. Then, development will become more attainable.
Each nation has its own path to success. Africa, with its diverse countries, must determine its own best course