With various wars taking place around the continent, a lack of unity between African nations, stifling economic growth and many more issues faced by the continent as a whole. It’s easy to begin questioning what happened to pan-Africanism?
Pan-Africanism is the belief that due to the shared history of Africans, they must unite and work together towards the growth and development of the continent.
Pan-Africanism at its strongest
The Pan-Africanist ideology was at its strongest around the end of the colonial era around the continent. African states that had gained independence worked together with other independence movements taking place around the continent. Together they supplied freedom fighters with training, arms and refuge. In addition, to aiding the armed resistance, they would pursue diplomatic efforts at international forums, lobbying for the independence of all African countries.
Its movement was exemplified by the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which would later become the African Union (AU). The objectives of the OAU were:
- Promote the unity and solidarity of African states;
- Coordinate and intensify their cooperation and efforts to achieve a better life for the peoples of Africa;
- Safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Member States;
- Rid the continent of colonisation and apartheid; promote international cooperation within the United Nations framework;
- Harmonise members’ political, diplomatic, economic, educational, cultural, health, welfare, scientific, technical and defence policies.
Pan Africanist sought to establish a unified African continent, following the collapse of the colonial governments. They sought to see an African continent that was deeply connected politically and economically. This would materialize itself through greater cooperation on political initiatives, greater trade between African nations and avoiding conflict in the African continent, between nations or between ethnic groups.
Unfulfilled Objectives
Unfortunately much of the ambitions of Pan Africanists have not materialized. African countries are not unified in their objectives, conflicts are currently taking place in numerous African nations and intra-Africa trade is at woefully low levels.
Now, the reality is that the African continent is made up of many nations, tribes and communities. Therefore, expecting them to agree on many initiatives would be a tall order. There are various barriers in place that inhibit the development of Pan African solidarity around the continent such as:
Foreign Influence
Foreign influence in African countries has been a major barrier to the ambitions of Pan-Africanism. Superpowers such as Russia, France, China and the USA’s battles for influence within Africa have meant the interests of the superpowers have been furthered ahead of initiatives aimed at further African unity, and cooperation.
Power struggles
Many African governments are more concerned about maintaining their power and influence over their citizens ahead of greater economic and political integration within Africa. They are concerned their power and control could be eroded as a result. This self-serving mentality has meant that many concrete measures aimed at advancing Pan-Africanism are often sidelined in order to avoid alienating leaders more interested in maintaining a strong grip on their power.
Conflict
Persistent conflicts within and between African countries pose significant obstacles to Pan-African unity. Ethnic tensions, territorial disputes, and resource competition exacerbate divisions and hinder efforts to forge a cohesive African identity. Addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting peaceful resolution mechanisms are essential steps towards advancing Pan-Africanism.
Lack of investment
African governments have been unwilling to make the necessary investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, because of the widespread corruption present in many of our governments. This lack of investment undermines the continent’s development and unity. Limited resources, coupled with corruption and mismanagement, inhibit progress towards Africa’s common goals. Increased investment in critical sectors, coupled with transparent governance practices, is vital for fostering Pan-African solidarity and prosperity.
The future of Pan Africanism
So is Pan Africanism dead? Perhaps it is not entirely dead, however, its presence and impact has been greatly diminished over the years. If we are to see the reemergance of Pan-Africanism in the continent we must work to overcome the barries of external interference, internal power struggles, conflict, and a lack of investment in Pan African initiatives. We have the ability to move closer towards realizing the vision of Pan-African unity and solidarity. Through greater collaboration, dialogue, and collective action, we can build a brighter future however, we must be willing to work towards that future.
