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Trumping China in Africa?

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6 years ago

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Obasanjo: A living legend - Gov. Abiodun

 

 

Olusegun Obasanjo and Greg Mills

The Trump Administration recently announced a long-awaited new strategy towards Africa.
It’s designed to be tougher in its selection of partners and to counter what is described as the “predatory” practices of China and Russia, which it says are “deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage”.

National security adviser John Bolton outlined the new strategy in remarks at the Heritage Foundation. Russia, he alleged, is “seeking to increase its influence in the region through corrupt economic dealings.” Russia and China’s efforts across the continent, he said, “stunt” Africa’s economic growth.

There is some to admire in the new strategy. It positions the US to “support open markets for American businesses, grow Africa’s middle class, promote youth employment opportunities, and improve the business climate.”
Nothing wrong with any of this, in principle.

The strategy calls for an end to the dissipation of aid across a multitude of projects and in the name of many causes. The US is the largest provider of development assistance world-wide and to Africa, spending $8.7 billion on the continent alone in 2017. USAID maintains more than two dozen regional and bilateral African missions.

Nothing much amiss with this idea either. As Ambassador Bolton correctly noted, one of the comparative strengths of the Marshall Plan was in its targeting of key economic sectors.

Yet problems in the operational ineffectiveness of aid is not only confined to Africa. It is also at least as much a donor problem as one of the recipients. The high transaction costs of aid reflect the multiple domestic constituencies in the donor countries that need to be assuaged, highlighting institutional priorities and politics that are seldom African in origin.

The strategy also says that the US will reassess its support for certain UN operations. There are longstanding concerns about ill-prepared UN peacekeepers intent on picking up the per diem rather than carrying out their military tasks.

The strategy also highlights the folly of giving aid to countries whose governance is troublesome, singling out the “morally bankrupt” leadership of South Sudan where Washington has expended nearly $4 billion in the last four years.
Again, whereas such a bold change might spur an improvement in the delivery of commitments, this is a problem less to do with Africa than among the donors and contributing nations.

But there is cause for concern over some elements of the new Africa strategy.

Bolton said of China’s dealings with the continent that it “uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing’s wishes and demands.” Citing well-founded fears about rising debt in Zambia (which has ballooned nearly four-fold to over 70% of GDP in just ten years) and Djibouti (which has seen the strategically-vital Horn of African country effectively mortgage its container port to Beijing), he claims that China’s “investment ventures are riddled with corruption, and do not meet the same environmental or ethical standards as US developmental programmes.”

Still China’s relationship with the continent is not all bad. Far from it. Nor can we say that the US’ relationship with the continent is universally beneficial to all recipients.

China’s second coming in Africa – the first being a short-lived intervention during the wars of liberation in the 1960s and 1970s – has transformed the image of the continent from largely one of a problem to be solved to a commercial prospect. As a result, China’s trade relationship with Africa has grown this century from just $10 billion to nearly $200 billion, and its continental investment stake is now greater than that of the United States at $35 billion by 2017, with over $140 billion in Chinese loans committed to date.

While there is nothing wrong with greater competition over ideas, Africa is likely to resist making a choice between China and the United States. The US is asking African countries to choose sides at a time when many don’t have this luxury.

It would be more interesting to find the means whereby the two superpowers work together, though the strategy makes little mention of global interdependence as an operating principle.

This is worrying, since the history of superpower rivalry in Africa is messy, destructive and occasionally bloody. The continent should do everything to avoid this happening again.

There is another concern. The document stresses the need to combat terrorism, and to use foreign aid to open up US markets to African partners, with little recognition of the different levels of development, sophistication and threat across the continent’s 55 states.

Some fear that US relations with Saudi Arabia point to how Washington will approach African countries – you can do what you want (and get a lot from us) as long as you act as a partner.

If so, this approach would dramatically undersell the US’ greatest African asset and its key distinguishing feature from China and Russia; not technology or access to the American market, but the values Washington represents.

Two-thirds of African polled routinely prefer democracy to any other form of government. Ethiopia’s recent turn from an authoritarian to a more democratic system makes lie of the notion that Africans prefer economic growth to human rights.

The United States is unlikely to beat China at its African game of delivering low-cost infrastructure in exchange for resources and contracts. Not only is the weight of population numbers on China’s side, but aid conditionality is likely to drive a race to the governance bottom, not the top.

Also, not too many Americans have the appetite for working in remote African environments for the same rewards as their Chinese counterparts. As a beacon of constitutionalism, instead the US should be focusing on how better to support democracy across Africa, fighting the battle for influence with tools few others possess.

The strategy does say that “Foreign assistance from the United States will concentrate on states that promote democratic ideals, support fiscal transparency, and undertake economic reforms.” While it points to the need for “prioritisation” and not tolerating “ineffective governance” and subsidising “corrupt leaders and violators of human rights”, the question is exactly ‘how’?

Washington can play a critical role in improving governance oversight and checks and balances on executive power by increasing support for parliamentary capacity, supporting greater transparency and vigilance over elections not least in having the means to identify tampering and guts to call them out as fraudulent, and a surge in funding African scholarships for the next generation.

The latter would probably, if it was to do nothing else, be the area where the US could achieve the greatest bang for its buck, both by Africa and in increasing its scale, power and placement of its own network. Putting just 20% of its African aid budget to scholarships, would enable 40,000 fresh students to attend US graduate courses.
That would really be generational and transformative, putting soft power to work, outsmarting China in Africa.

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President Obasanjo and Dr Mills are co-authors of the just-released ‘Democracy Works: Rewiring Politics for Africa’s Advantage’.

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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religion

Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo

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5 days ago

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December 21, 2024

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Prophet Kingsley Aitafo's Prophecy Fulfilled: Alhaji Muyideen Bello Passes Away

Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, under the grace and spiritual leadership of His Eminence Rev. Pastor Samuel Belehou Oshoffa, founder of the Celestial Church of Christ, has unveiled 25 prophecies for the year 2025. These revelations call for vigilance, prayer, and alignment with divine purpose. Below is the detailed list of the prophecies:

 

 

1. A Year of Divine Justice

2025 will be a year of vengeance upon the wicked and a season of abundant harvest for the righteous. This is a time for reflection and spiritual alignment.

 

2. Weather Disasters to Pray Against

The world must unite in prayers against severe weather disasters, including excessive winds, water overflow, floods, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These natural calamities threaten to disrupt lives and properties globally.

 

3. A Major Technological Advancement

WhatsApp is predicted to receive a significant upgrade, potentially integrating email functionalities. This innovation will redefine digital communication.

 

4. Nigeria’s National Football Team

The Nigerian national football team should be prayed for, as a painful defeat could occur.

 

5. A Great Man of God in Danger

One of the most celebrated men of God is at risk of sudden death. Prayers are needed to avert this tragedy.

 

6. Sunday Igboho

The activist should be prayed for to avoid heart-touching news that could cause widespread concern.

 

7. Nnamdi Kanu

Freedom is within reach for Nnamdi Kanu, but prayers are needed to ensure he lives to see it.

 

8. Fire Disasters Worldwide

Serious fire disasters are foreseen and must be prayed against to protect lives and properties globally.

 

9. NYSC and PHCN Reforms

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) will be empowered and reshuffled for greater effectiveness.

 

10. Global Police Forces

The police worldwide are warned of potential brutal revolts from the masses. Prayers are needed to prevent such events.

 

11. African Nations and Coups

Several African countries are advised to pray against unexpected coup plots.

 

12. Goodluck Jonathan’s Political Path

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is encouraged to follow God’s leading and refrain from contesting future elections.

 

13. Changes in EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will be more empowered, but significant transformations will occur within the agency.

 

14. Passing of Aged Leaders

Several aged ex-presidents, traditional rulers, and military leaders will pass on in 2025.

 

15. New Religious Leaders

New leaders will emerge in white garment denominations and the Catholic Church, marking significant transitions.

 

16. Churches in Danger of Scandals

Great churches like RCCG, Winners Chapel, Christ Embassy, Mountain of Fire, and COZA are urged to pray against confusion and scandals that could lead to divisions.

 

17. Exposure of False Churches

Churches that operate under the guise of Christ without genuine faith will be exposed.

 

18. Protection of Yoruba Entertainers

Yoruba actors and actresses should pray against strange illnesses, while English-speaking entertainers must pray against sudden deaths.

 

19. Plane Crashes

A major plane crash could occur, causing widespread pain. Prayers are needed to prevent this disaster.

 

20. National Unity in Nigeria

Despite ongoing agitations, Nigeria will remain undivided.

 

21. The Monarch and Pope’s Seat

Prayers are required to prevent sudden vacancies in the monarchy of England and the papal seat.

 

22. Deadly Disease and Global Conflict

A new, more deadly ailment than COVID-19 and the potential of a mini-war loom on the horizon. The world must unite in prayer to avert these crises.

 

23. Rising of True Last-Day Churches

The emergence of last-day churches will bring forth spiritual giants and miraculous powers reminiscent of the apostles of old.

 

24. Business Tycoons in Nigeria

Successful Nigerian business magnates should seek divine protection against untimely death.

 

25. Christ’s Return is Near

Finally, Prophet Kingsley reminds the world that the return of Jesus Christ is near. Embracing holiness and righteousness is the only path to prepare for His coming.

 

Prophet Kingsley’s prophecies serve as a divine reminder for individuals, nations, and institutions to seek God’s guidance and protection. Let 2025 be a year of faith, reflection, and readiness for what lies ahead.

 

Let us watch, pray, and align with God’s will.

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Politics

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

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6 days ago

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December 20, 2024

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Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

The global coordinator of the Obidient Movement has announced that Peter Obi, former presidential candidate and leader of the movement, has stepped forward to fulfill the bail conditions for human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.

Farotimi, a prominent activist known for his bold stance against systemic issues in Nigeria, was recently granted ₦30 million bail by a Federal High Court following charges filed against him. The case has attracted significant public attention, with widespread support for Farotimi from various quarters.

In a statement, the Coordinator revealed that Obi expressed his gratitude to the judiciary and all stakeholders involved in the legal process. The former presidential candidate emphasized the importance of fairness, transparency, and the rule of law in resolving the matter.

The Obidient Movement, known for championing justice and accountability, has remained vocal in its support for Farotimi. The group reiterated its commitment to upholding the principles of justice and transparency in Nigeria’s judicial system.

The next hearing in Farotimi’s case is scheduled for January 2025, with supporters hopeful for a resolution that upholds the integrity of the legal process.

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Politics

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

Published

7 days ago

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December 19, 2024

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Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

 

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Thursday described the allegation that the House spent N17 billion on the fixing of a gate as spurious and funny.

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

A self-proclaimed group, Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition, had accused the Assembly of spending the amount to construct a gate. The group also sought investigation of the claim.

Speaking at plenary, Dr. Obasa said the allegation stemmed from the fear of some people over 2027 which is still more than two years away.

Obasa further debunked the claim that the House spent N200 million on its recently organised 22nd thanksgiving service for staff.

“It is so funny. How much is the allocation of the Assembly in the whole year that we will decide to spend N17 billion on a gate? They even claimed that we expended 200 million on thanksgiving that did not hold.

“We are aware that at a period like this when we are approaching elections in 2027, we should expect such things. I think some people are scared and I don’t know why.

“This House did not and has not embarked on any such project. We are not that reckless. We had our thanksgiving last Friday and dignitaries from various parts of the State attended it,” the Speaker said.

Addressing further claims by the group about the alleged relationship between him and the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, the Speaker denied attending the latter’s screening and confirmation by the National Assembly.

“They said that I was at the National Assembly when they were confirming the EFCC chairman. I want to believe that there are CCTV cameras at the National Assembly to identify those who attended the event. The press must have written about it too. So the group should do more to confirm if I was there.

“This is just to deny the allegations in the interest of the public and not the writers because the writers are not those we should be joining words with,” the Speaker said.

Earlier, the House, through its spokesperson, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, had addressed the allegations noting that the Assembly bases its activities on integrity, transparency and accountability.

“It is ludicrous the claim about constituency intervention funds and constituency project funds and their handling by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko as claimed by the group.

“One would have expected a self-acclaimed anti-corruption crusading group to do its groundwork before jumping across the fence with conviction that it hit a jackpot to malign an institution of repute in the name of politics.

“Simply put, the Lagos State House of Assembly does not have any such funds. The Assembly does not embark on constituency projects. Instead, once every year, the House holds stakeholders’ meetings simultaneously across the state where constituents have the opportunity to tell the lawmakers their expectations and make requests for the betterment of the state.

“These requests and expectations are compiled and sent to the executive arm of government for consideration as inputs in subsequent budgets. If this is what the group takes as constituency intervention or project funds, we are sure this explanation has given the required education, moreover, it is common knowledge that it is the responsibility of the Executive arm to execute such projects,” the earlier statement by Ogundipe read.

Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

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