Tijjani Mukaddas
In the grand halls of the United Nations, where global decisions are made, African leaders often find themselves relegated to mere spectators. Despite being the largest regional group in the UN General Assembly, Africa lacks a permanent seat on the Security Council, the pinnacle of global decision-making. The United Nations has long been regarded as a platform for international cooperation and diplomacy. However, the time has come for African leaders to question whether our continued participation in this organization truly serves our interests.
The United Nations, with its noble ideals of promoting peace, security, and development, often falls short of its promises, especially for Africa. African leaders frequently find themselves in a paradoxical situation, holding significant numerical strength in the General Assembly but lacking real influence in critical decision-making processes. While African nations occupy seats in the General Assembly, these seats often feel like placeholders rather than platforms for meaningful engagement. In recent years, concerns have emerged regarding the relationship between African leaders and the United Nations (UN). It is evident that some African leaders receive aid and incentives in exchange for voting in favor of certain interests within the UN. Aid, which can be vital for their countries’ development and stability. However, this reliance on aid creates a cycle of dependency that compromises Africa’s sovereignty and hinders its progress.
Africa, despite its vast resources and potential, continues to grapple with myriad challenges, including poverty, hunger, insecurity, and inadequate education systems. Despite these pressing issues, African voices are often drowned out in the corridors of the United Nations. The Security Council, where decisions with far-reaching implications are made, remains elusive to African representation. This marginalization perpetuates a cycle of inequality and undermines the principles of fairness and justice that the United Nations claims to uphold.
African leaders must come together and speak with a unified voice on the global stage. By setting aside our differences and working collectively, we can amplify our influence and demand the changes needed for Africa’s progress. Unity is the key to achieving a permanent seat for Africa in the United Nations. African leaders should strive to reduce our dependence on external aid by harnessing our own resources and capabilities. By fostering intra-African trade, investing in infrastructure, and promoting technological advancements, we can build a self-reliant continent that thrives economically.
Africa continues to grapple with widespread hunger and poverty. It is a travesty that we rely on external entities for assistance when our continent possesses vast resources. African leaders must take charge and develop sustainable strategies to eradicate hunger and poverty, uplifting our people from the cycle of deprivation. Insecurity remains a pressing issue across Africa, with conflicts, terrorism, and civil unrest disrupting the lives of millions. It is time for African leaders to unite and develop comprehensive strategies to combat these threats. By focusing on regional cooperation and strengthening our own security apparatus, we can create a safer continent for all. Africa’s education system is plagued by numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, underfunding, and a lack of quality teachers. African leaders must prioritize education and invest in innovative solutions to provide accessible and quality education to all African children. Empowering future generations through education is crucial for the continent’s sustainable development.
Participation in the United Nations comes at a significant cost for African nations. Beyond the financial burden of membership dues, African leaders often find themselves pressured to align with the interests of more powerful nations in exchange for economic aid or political support. This transactional approach to diplomacy undermines Africa’s sovereignty and perpetuates a system of dependency that hinders genuine progress and self-determination.
It’s time for African leaders to reclaim their agency and demand a seat at the table – a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. This isn’t merely about symbolic representation; it’s about ensuring that Africa’s voice is heard, and its interests are prioritized in global decision-making processes. African leaders must unite in solidarity and speak with one voice, leveraging their collective strength to demand reform within the United Nations.
While advocating for reform within the United Nations is crucial, African leaders must also explore alternative avenues for collaboration and collective action. Regional organizations such as the African Union offer platforms for African nations to address common challenges and pursue shared goals without the constraints of global power dynamics. By strengthening regional integration and cooperation, African leaders can amplify their collective voice on the global stage.
Ultimately, the quest for a permanent seat at the United Nations is about more than just securing a place at the table – it’s about shaping a better future for Africa and its people. African leaders must prioritize investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainable development to uplift their nations and empower future generations. By fostering a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive governance, African nations can chart their own path towards prosperity and self-reliance.
The time has come for African leaders to wake up to the harsh reality of their marginalization within the United Nations and the broader global community. It’s time to move beyond complacency and assert Africa’s rightful place on the world stage. By demanding a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council and pursuing alternative avenues for collaboration and development, African nations can chart a course towards a brighter, more equitable future. Africa is not just a passive bystander in global affairs – it is the mother of all nations, and its voice must be heard.
Tijjani Mukaddas
CEO
Transit school Initiative.
Vanderbilt University, USA