The West must treat Africa as an equal partner

21 Jan, 2025 - 14:01 0 Views
The West must treat Africa as an equal partner

Timothy Pemba

As Donald Trump assumes office once again, a new chapter in global geopolitics begins, presenting both challenges and opportunities for Zimbabwe and Africa as a whole.

While the United States and its Western allies have historically positioned themselves as custodians of global democracy, trade and development, Africa’s narrative has often been framed through the lens of dependency.

This outdated perspective must change. Africa and Zimbabwe in particular, demands to be treated as an equal partner—not as a former household subordinate in the shadows of colonialism.

To understand the complexities of Zimbabwe-West relations, it is essential to revisit the historical context. Zimbabwe, like many African nations, endured the indignities of colonial rule.

The West’s extractive colonial economies plundered African resources while systematically under-developing local industries and infrastructure.

Decades after independence, the remnants of these exploitative systems linger, shaping global trade imbalances and perpetuating economic inequalities.

Post-independence Zimbabwe, under various administrations, has struggled to shed off the shackles of these historical injustices.

Western nations, while touting support for democracy and development, have often resorted to sanctions, paternalistic aid policies, and exploitative trade practices. These actions have only deepened mistrust and reinforced the perception that the West views Africa as a project, not a partner.

Today, Africa is no longer the continent of the 20th century. It is a land of opportunity, rich in human capital, natural resources and innovation.

Zimbabwe’s strategic location, vast mineral wealth, and educated workforce make it a critical player in regional and global markets.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has further unlocked the potential for intra-African trade, positioning the continent as a unified economic bloc with a GDP of over $3 trillion.

Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 agenda aligns with this broader continental ambition, aiming to transform the nation into an upper-middle-income economy. However, achieving these goals requires fair access to global markets, equitable trade agreements and partnerships built on mutual respect.

Equal partnerships are not only morally right but also economically advantageous. The West’s current approach, characterised by conditional aid and economic sanctions, undermines trust and hampers progress.

Zimbabwe’s call for equal treatment is not a demand for handouts; it is a plea for fairness in global trade, investment and diplomacy.

The notion of equal partnerships should extend to trade and investment. Zimbabwe needs access to Western markets on fair terms.

Trade barriers, tariffs and restrictive export policies must be reconsidered to foster mutually beneficial commerce. Western nations have advanced technologies that can drive sustainable development in Zimbabwe.

From renewable energy to advanced agricultural practices, technology transfer should be prioritised without the burden of exploitative licensing agreements.

Rather than aid packages with stringent conditions, the West should focus on financing infrastructure projects, supporting local industries, and enabling Zimbabwe’s participation in global value chains.

The language and tone of diplomacy matter. Zimbabwe should not be lectured on governance and democracy but engaged in a dialogue of equals, recognising its sovereignty and unique developmental challenges.

Donald Trump’s previous tenure as President of the United States was marked by an “America First” foreign policy, which often disregarded traditional diplomatic norms.

While this approach raised concerns, it also created opportunities for nations willing to assert their interests boldly. Zimbabwe can leverage Trump’s transactional style to redefine its relationship with the United States.

By presenting itself as a reliable partner with clear economic opportunities, Zimbabwe can attract American investment in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, and tourism. The re-engagement strategy must emphasise mutual benefits, showcasing how collaboration with Zimbabwe can align with American business interests.

The Zimbabwean diaspora in Western nations, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom, holds significant influence.

These communities are bridges between Zimbabwe and the West, playing a pivotal role in shaping perceptions and fostering economic ties. As Trump assumes office, Zimbabwe must engage its diaspora proactively, encouraging investments, remittances, and advocacy for fair policies.

To ensure a future of equal partnerships, Zimbabwe and the West must commit to mutual respect. The West must shed its paternalistic tendencies, recognising Zimbabwe as a sovereign nation capable of determining its developmental path.

Western sanctions on Zimbabwe have outlived their purpose. These measures must be lifted to create a conducive environment for trade and investment. Zimbabwe should prioritise economic diplomacy, engaging Western nations with a clear agenda that highlights mutual benefits.

To attract Western partnerships, Zimbabwe must continue strengthening its institutions, ensuring transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.

Promoting cultural understanding through arts, education, and tourism can bridge the gap between Zimbabwe and the West, fostering goodwill and collaboration.

The narrative of Africa as a subordinate to Western powers belongs in the past. As the world grapples with economic uncertainties, climate change, and geopolitical shifts, genuine partnerships are more critical than ever. Zimbabwe, with its abundant resources and resilient people, stands ready to engage the West on equal terms.

As Donald Trump begins his second presidency, Zimbabwe’s message to the West is clear: Treat us as equal partners, not as remnants of a colonial past.

Only through respect, fairness, and collaboration can we build a future that benefits both Zimbabwe and the Western world.

Timothy Pemba is a student of the Decolonisation of Africa with a deep interest in the continent’s socio-economic transformation and its role in the global landscape.

He writes in his capacity; that opinions expressed do not reflect the views of any organizations he may be associated with. He can be contacted via email at [email protected]

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