New Cold War Dynamics Reshape Africa's Geopolitical Landscape

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As global tensions escalate, Africa has emerged as a focal point in the rivalry among great powers, raising questions about a potential "New Cold War." According to Pádraig Carmody, Professor of Geography at Trinity College Dublin, the competition involves the United States, Russia, and China, each vying for influence amidst shifting alliances on the continent.

The geopolitical landscape has evolved from a primarily geo-economic focus to strategic interests, in part driven by Africa’s wealth in resources essential for global energy transitions. Notably, China, which controls 70% of Africa's broadband infrastructure and was once a dominant source of foreign direct investment, has reduced funding for initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative due to economic constraints.

While Russia’s influence has become pronounced through military partnerships and support for authoritarian regimes, the West under potential leadership from Donald Trump may retreat further, leaving Africa's political elites to leverage this power dynamics to their advantage. Ultimately, the emerging competition could reshape African governance, often prioritizing elite interests over democratic ideals.

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