A continent so rich in resources and culture can’t be shackled by the chains of foreign domination. For decades, Africa has been caught in a complex web of economic and political relationships that have perpetuated the legacy of colonialism in a modern guise—neo-colonialism.
This term, coined by Ghanaian leader Kwame Nkrumah, describes the control exercised by former colonial powers and multinational corporations over African nations. While formal colonial rule in Africa ended in the mid-20th century, a new form of domination—one cloaked in economic dependence, exploitative trade practices, and foreign influence—has taken its place.
In the 21st century, Africa remains a land of immense promise, rich in natural resources and vibrant cultures. However, progress of African nations is stunted by neocolonialism due to the continued economic and political control of external powers over former colonies. Today, over 60 years since the first wave of independence, these constraints raise critical questions about the true nature of Africa’s autonomy.
This issue isn’t confined to the past—it persists in trade agreements favouring former colonial powers, foreign aid with strings attached, and multinational corporations that extract wealth from the continent without fostering local growth.
According to the World Trade Organization, over 50 per cent of Africa’s exports comprise raw materials, yet the value-added industries that could transform economies remain underdeveloped.
Proponents of globalization argue foreign investments in sectors like mining and agriculture create jobs and drive economic growth, while international aid supports infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Others suggest Africa’s challenges stem more from internal issues like corruption and mismanagement, claiming that with better governance, foreign influence could be leveraged more effectively.
Although foreign investments are touted as solutions, the reality is far more complex. Jobs created by multinational corporations are frequently low-paying and precarious, with profits repatriated to foreign nations rather than reinvested locally. For instance, cobalt mining operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo enrich global tech companies but leave local communities impoverished and environmentally devastated.
International aid, meanwhile, comes with conditions prioritizing donor interests over recipient needs. Loans from institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank are tied to austerity measures, undermining public services and leaving nations trapped in cycles of debt. As of 2024, Africa’s total external debt exceeded $650 billion, with repayments syphoning funds away from essential services.
Independence isn’t easily achieved when loans intended to foster growth often come with exploitative terms that leave African nations reliant on foreign aid and debt. This reliance on foreign aid and debt undermines nations’ sovereignty, as decision-making is influenced by external interests rather than domestic priorities.
Neo-colonialism isn’t a distant nor abstract concept—it’s a tangible reality that continues to shape the lives of millions of Africans. To dismantle the shackles of neo-colonialism, African nations must renegotiate exploitative trade agreements and demand fairer terms from international institutions. Meanwhile, the global community must hold countries and multinational corporations accountable for ethical practices and support debt relief initiatives to give African nations a fresh start.
As Nkrumah famously said, “Freedom is not something that one people can bestow on another as a gift. They claim it as their own and none can keep it from them.” It’s time for Africa to claim its true freedom and forge a path toward genuine independence.
The question isn’t whether the continent can rise above neo-colonialism—it’s whether the world will allow it the space to do so.
Oluwamisimi is a third-year nursing student and one of The Journal’s Business, Science & Technology editors. The Queens university Journal
