Africa vis-à-vis the Western Powers

Abstract

Africa, silent and passive throughout the ages, in the past decade has been transformed from a vast colonial do main into a continent of independent states. After generations of having to accept decisions made by Europeans, African na tions feel a strong compulsion to form their own judgments, wishing to be active agents of their own history. Nationalism is the dominant social and political force. Accordingly, Af rican states will be guided in their internal and external poli cies by what is best for their people, for their development, and for their future. The African states seek to strengthen their political independence and economies, to pursue an inde pendent foreign policy and to contribute to world peace and security, and to assist the remaining African colonial territories in gaining independence. Trade and aid are critical issues, and the problem is whether the African states will be compelled to develop primarily with their own resources or whether they will benefit from the advantages of co-operating with the West. Within Africa, foreign policy is directed toward increasing unity and integration. Toward the rest of the world, it is based on nonalignment—which can be considered as refusal to prejudge issues rather than as reluctance to make judgments. In the future, Africa will be sui generis—baffling, exciting, and challenging—capable of playing a role proportionate to her size and the genius of her people.—Ed.