African Countries Between Real and False Independence

Translated by Inga Makary

Reviewed by Mohaned Mohammed

Written by Riyad Akar

Like many terms in the humanities, it is difficult to obtain a precise and comprehensive definition of “independence.” However, most scholars who have attempted to define it agree that one of its most essential elements is that a state must possess absolute sovereignty over its territory and have full control over its own decisions, uninfluenced by anything other than its own interests and the interests of its people, as well as what fulfills their hopes and aspirations. Taking this standard into consideration when evaluating the independence of African countries, it raises a serious and highly important question for Africa's present and future: Have all African countries truly achieved real independence? This is a question that many may find uncomfortable, as it casts doubt on our independence as Africans, especially after the immense sacrifices made by the peoples of this ancient continent and its great historical leaders. Yet, in the spirit of honesty and transparency, and to confront real obstacles and challenges, this question must be raised, particularly in light of the internal conflicts currently taking place among African countries and often fueled directly by external powers seeking to preserve or expand their influence in Africa.

The answer to this question may be either yes or no, depending on the particular country under discussion. It cannot be denied that many African countries today enjoy complete independence, with full sovereignty over their territories and freedom in making decisions and defining their stands on international issues. However, the answer may also be "NO" for other countries that achieved independence in form but not in substance. Independence is not established merely by declaring it, nor by raising a flag or adopting a national anthem. However, it is achieved through sovereignty, freedom, and capability, as previously mentioned. Unfortunately, some African countries today, especially those that had declared independence decades ago, do not even have control over parts of their own territories. They are still subservient to external decision-making. To this day, they cannot make national decisions independently of the capitals of their former colonizers, which continue to preserve a hybrid inheritance through which they sought to alter the identity, culture, and sense of belonging of the peoples they once occupied to satisfy their imperial ambitions. Not to mention the foreign military presence in Africa under various names and justifications outwardly framed as protection yet inwardly aimed at fueling disputes and maintaining the status quo in ways that secure foreign influence and serve its interests. Addressing this reality is necessary by all possible means. Undoubtedly, Africa will not attain full independence as long as it remains subject to the unilateral will of foreign powers. By raising these issues, we seek to draw attention to our condition and our reality, which we believe requires genuine change, leading us toward complete independence, which has long suffered from the scourge of colonialism and its instruments that took away the resources and violated rights, the rights that we firmly believe are seized, not granted.