British-African New Partnership: The Post Brexit Strategy For Dominance

In March 2019, Britain's membership in the European Union will cease. A new dawn in the political-economy of Britain will begin; a superb reason for its desperate move to attract new partners and allies. This move by Britain is nothing but an attempt to establish dominance which was not achieved while a member of EU due to the powerful influence of Germany and France in the bloc.

The constant yearnings of the British to re-establish a strong tie with Africa must be watched closely, in order to avoid the mistakes of the past. Africa must be wise this time when getting into any type of partnership with a view to gain parity not disparity. It is noteworthy that Theresa May becomes the first British prime minister to set foot in Kenya since Margaret Thatcher in 1988 in her on going trip to Africa.

The puzzle: Why is everyone scrambling to establish a strong tie with Africa, China, and now Britain? One reason for this heightened interest is the belief that Africa's abundant mineral resources can easily be exploited due to its poor leadership. Ties can be good for countries. No country would want to stay in isolation if it wishes to advance economically in today's world but, reasons for ties with Africa, most especially from the world powers are usually suspicious. One cannot dispute the infrastructural benefits that have been derived from some partnerships but when it leaves impoverished countries saddled with ballooning foreign currency debts they eventually become quasi colonies.

Overt tactics such as the transatlantic slave trade and Berlin Conference of 1884–1885 have been replaced with the covert operations of foreign aid and investment but the mission remains owning Africa. Africa must assert itself and take advantage of the competing interests in order to secure the best deals. Britain must take responsibility for its role in the destabilization and impoverishment of the continent. Any re-engagement must be mutually beneficial. The emergence of youthful, articulate leaders across the continent bodes well for the future and this time Britain better be prepared for business unusual.

Tips:

- Avoid foreign aid just like India is doing.
- In exchange for Africa's raw materials, they (UK or anyone interested), should allow Africa fully tap into their technological know how.
- The ongoing efforts by the Africa Union to re-establish an Economic formidable bloc should serve as a catalyst when trading with the rest of the world.
- At the back of all these, African leaders must purge themselves of corruption, bad leadership and imbue political will for the progress of continent.
- It is time for Africa to be smart just like China and the EU.


Written by Paul Azemata Amune



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