The New Cold War: Geopolitical Competition Heating Up in Africa

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Geopolitical tensions are intensifying in Africa as global powers, particularly the United States, Russia, and China, vie for influence, suggesting the emergence of a "New Cold War." According to Pádraig Carmody, a professor at Trinity College, Dublin, Africa serves as a battleground where external powers seek economic, strategic, and geopolitical interests. The competition has shifted from economic to broader geo-strategic dimensions, with factors such as resource access, market expansion, and military alliances at play.

China, which dominates broadband infrastructure and has significant investments in resources, has recently focused on "soft power" initiatives like increased scholarships for African students. However, the country's foreign direct investment has dropped dramatically, falling nearly 50% from 2018 to 2019. Meanwhile, Russia’s involvement has included security agreements and the presence of the Wagner Group; however, its military setbacks have diminished its stature as a leading arms supplier. As this competition unfolds, African nations may leverage these rivalries to their advantage, although this could also lead to the erosion of democratic rights amid growing authoritarian influences.

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