In late August, Burkina Faso, a country in West Africa, took a bold step by taking control of two gold mines from Endeavour Mining, a big company based in London. This move highlights a bigger issue in Africa, where many countries are rich in natural resources like gold, yet still struggle with poverty. In fact, Burkina Faso is the fourth-largest gold producer in Africa.
A report from SwissAid, a charity organization, revealed that in 2022, a staggering 435 tons of gold, worth about $35 billion, was smuggled out of Africa through organized crime. Most of this gold ended up in banks in Europe. This situation shows the ongoing struggle of African nations against a history of exploitation by foreign powers, a practice often referred to as neo-colonialism.
For centuries, Western countries have been taking Africa’s wealth while leaving behind chaos, political problems, and environmental damage. Even though colonial empires have fallen, the harmful legacy of exploitation continues. Today, the West is still robbing Africa of its resources, but the methods have changed. Instead of outright colonial rule, there’s now a mix of military action, business practices, and cultural influence that keeps Africa at a disadvantage.
The Great Gold Theft
Africa is incredibly rich in natural resources. It has around 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, 8% of its natural gas, and 12% of its oil. The continent is home to 40% of the world’s gold and holds a major portion of cobalt, which is vital for making batteries for electric cars and smartphones. Yet, despite this wealth, more than 413 million Africans live in extreme poverty as of 2023, according to the United Nations.
How can a continent so rich be home to so many poor people? The answer lies in a tangled history of exploitation. Colonial powers like Britain, France, and Belgium took over Africa in the 19th and 20th centuries, drawing artificial borders and causing conflicts that still affect the continent today. The resources they extracted, from diamonds in South Africa to rubber in the Congo, were taken with little regard for the people living there.
After the colonial era, these powers were replaced by multinational companies, which now act as modern-day colonizers. Companies like Glencore and Shell operate in Africa, claiming to bring investment and development. However, they often pay very little to local workers while profiting immensely from the land. It’s like they found a way to make stealing seem legitimate.
The New Age of Exploitation
Take Nigeria, for example, the largest oil producer in Africa. Even though the oil industry generates billions, around 40% of Nigerians live below the poverty line. Shell, which has operated there for over 60 years, has faced serious accusations of harming the environment and violating human rights. The Niger Delta, once filled with diverse wildlife, is now devastated due to oil spills.
Western powers also use military force to secure access to Africa’s resources. The U.S. has numerous military bases across the continent, claiming they are there to combat terrorism. Critics argue these bases primarily exist to protect American interests in Africa’s resources, such as oil and uranium.
Meanwhile, France maintains a military presence in former colonies like Mali and Chad, often under the guise of fighting terrorism, but their actions frequently align with protecting their economic interests, especially in uranium and gold.
When military action isn’t an option, Western countries turn to diplomatic tactics. Institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) impose strict conditions on African nations that need financial help. These conditions often force countries to privatize their resources, allowing foreign companies to swoop in and profit.
Cultural Influence and the Fight for Justice
Alongside military and corporate tactics, the West uses cultural narratives to maintain control over Africa. Western media often portrays Africa as a place in dire need of saving, creating a mindset that justifies intervention. This narrative oversimplifies the continent, ignoring its rich history and diverse cultures.
However, the story isn’t all about exploitation. Africa has a long history of resistance, and recent developments show that the continent is far from passive. Movements advocating for African unity and self-determination are gaining momentum.
Pan-Africanism, a movement that seeks unity among African nations, is experiencing a revival. Leaders in countries like Burkina Faso and Mali are increasingly pushing for renegotiated contracts with multinational corporations to ensure that more wealth stays within Africa.
Furthermore, the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) aims to create a single market across the continent, reducing dependence on Western economies. This initiative represents a significant step toward economic independence.
Grassroots movements are also rising. In Kenya, a popular movement for land rights and resource control is gaining traction, signaling a growing awareness of the need for self-determination across Africa. Ideas once championed by leaders like Gaddafi are resurfacing, with proposals for an African Organization for Natural Resources and a unified currency gaining popularity.
A New Era for Africa
As Africa looks to reclaim its wealth, the question arises: Will the continent continue to be seen as a treasure trove for Western interests, or will it finally take control of its future? With abundant resources and a rich cultural heritage, Africa has the potential to become a global leader in various fields.
To realize this potential, Africans must resist the forces that seek to exploit them—be it through military actions, multinational corporations, or cultural domination. The time has come for Africa to say, “We are no longer your colony or your playground.”
The ongoing battle for Africa’s resources is just beginning, and as the tide of resistance rises, it’s clear that Africa is ready to reclaim what is rightfully its own.
