Reconfiguring the Euro-Africa Partnership: An Ambitious Plan
Italy and the European Union have launched a comprehensive investment strategy, totaling €1.2 billion, as part of their broader geopolitical aspirations in Africa. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, unveiled this investment as a strategic cornerstone, intending to redefine Europe’s role amidst mounting global competition and escalating migration pressures. Central to this initiative is the bolstering of vital sectors such as railway infrastructure, digital connectivity, and sustainable agriculture. A highlighted project is the Lobito corridor, an extensive 800-kilometer railway linking Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia. The initiative also includes the expansion of the Blue Raman submarine cable to East Africa.
Geo-Strategic and Migration Concerns: The Underlying Motivations
Beneath the veneer of altruism, this investment strategy is inherently diplomatic, addressing both migratory challenges and China’s growing influence in Africa. For Europe, particularly Italy, this represents a calculated effort to forge tighter bonds with key African nations. Italy, through this initiative, positions itself as a pragmatic partner, advocating for collaborations founded on tangible projects rather than rhetorical morality. The Italian government envisions the development of local infrastructures as a mechanism to curb migration flows directly from source countries, contrasting with other European powers that have adopted more ideological stances.
Critics Argue Lack of True African Inclusion
Despite the substantial commitments, the plan has drawn significant criticism from African organizations. Critiques highlight concerns of neo-colonialism, with initiatives perceived to prioritize fossil fuel investments and marginalize local communities in decision-making processes. The coalition ‘Don’t Gas Africa’ has condemned the initiative for its limited engagement and lack of fresh financing, casting doubt over the project’s sincerity. Similar sentiments have been echoed by the African Union, stressing the necessity for reciprocal cooperation in these partnerships. For many African leaders and analysts, this latest announcement risks being another unfulfilled promise, lacking substantive African stakeholder engagement.