Let’s be honest: The world sees Africa’s potential—sometimes even more clearly than we do ourselves. The latest headline? China just rolled out zero-tariff access to its market for 53 African countries. The only one left out? Eswatini, due to their stance on Taiwan.
At first glance, this looks like a jackpot. Export opportunities! Market expansion! Economic growth! But before we pop the champagne, let’s ask: Who’s really setting the menu at this global dinner?
The West Knows Our Worth
Let’s not kid ourselves. The Western world has always recognized Africa’s value—sometimes by embracing us, other times by shutting the door with travel bans, tight immigration, and aid tied up in political red tape. When the U.S. stepped back, China didn’t just walk in—they rolled out the red carpet. But not out of love. Out of strategy.
The Power of a United Africa
Here’s the kicker: Divided, we’re seen as 54 fragmented markets. United, we are a force to be reckoned with. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is our ticket to negotiating as one powerful bloc, not as scattered voices.
Imagine what we could achieve if we approached every deal, every policy, every opportunity with an Africa First mindset. Not just exporting raw materials, but building manufacturing power, growing SME exports, and—most importantly—creating jobs for our youth.
Zero Tariffs? Nice. But Let’s Not Sell Ourselves Short.
Zero tariffs sound great, but they mean little if we’re just shipping cocoa beans and crude oil. The real win is in value addition—processing, branding, and exporting finished goods. And let’s not forget: If our ports, railways, and tech are foreign-owned, who really benefits?
Africa Doesn’t Need Saviors. We Need Strategy.
This isn’t a charity gala. It’s a chess game. And Africa has the pieces to win—if we play together.
So, to my fellow African entrepreneurs, policymakers, and dreamers: Let’s seize this moment with vision, unity, and a bold Africa-first mindset. The world is watching. Let’s show them what we’re truly capable of—together.