Structural Characteristics of Africa and Its Place in the International Arena

Abstract

Decades after gaining independence, most African states depend on their relations with their past colonisers to ensure continuity in terms of economy and legitimacy. Further they depend on developed states foreign aid and foreign institutions to maintain their structural integrity. This had created an element of dependency that even with the reality that states in Africa have vast and wealthy resources, which if well used can drive them to global economic standards, they still fail to be self sufficient and fail to provide tailor made solutions to their needs. This is more so evident in Africa's economic integration. States in Africa have established regional economic blocks such as COMESA, SADC, ECOWAS etc. and instead of promoting intra linkages between themselves, these blocks have looked to create vertical linkages with Western economies in terms of trade and investments. Further, the heavy dependence on foreign aid and the operations of multinational firms in Africa derive an element of neo colonialism. Such European franchises and corporations are economically exploiting African states while introducing cultural domination.