In the intricate dance of global geopolitics, few recent pronouncements have stirred as much debate as those surrounding Emmanuel Macron’s Africa policy. Thierry Breton, the EU Commissioner for Internal Market, ignited a firestorm with his assessment of the French President’s approach. His controversial remarks have become a flashpoint in discussions about Africa’s evolving role on the world stage, its relationship with former colonial powers, and the implications for both continents. Breton’s statements raise a fundamental question: With shifting power dynamics and a growing sense of self-determination, is Africa truly experiencing an “Africa Awakening,” and what does this mean for its future?

Breton’s central argument, dripping with a neocolonial undertone, was that Macron’s policies were inadvertently revealing Africa’s potential to itself, a blunder in his eyes. He suggested that this awakening could lead to a reversal of immigration flows, with Africans choosing to remain on their continent rather than seeking opportunities in Europe. “If they realize that they have this potential, then the youth that we think will come to Europe to build our homes will stay there,” Breton stated, framing Africa’s potential as a threat rather than an opportunity.

The claim that “Africa has no history,” a sentiment echoed in Breton’s remarks, is a dangerous and demonstrably false narrative. The ancient empires of Mali and Ghana, centers of trade and learning, flourished centuries ago. Imhotep, an Egyptian polymath, designed architectural marvels that predate many European structures. These are not isolated examples but rather glimpses into a rich and complex past that has been deliberately obscured. Kwame Nkrumah, the first president of Ghana, presciently warned of neocolonialism, where “the State which is subject to it is, in theory, independent and has all the outward trappings of international sovereignty. In reality its economic system and thus its political policy is directed from outside.”

Breton’s comments exemplify a modern iteration of neocolonial attitudes. The subtle condescension of past decades has given way to a more overt expression of fear – a fear of Africa realizing its own strength. This shift reveals a deeper anxiety about the changing global order, where Africa is no longer content to be a passive recipient of aid and influence.

Across the continent, a palpable shift is underway, a move away from the subservient posture of the past. From Bamako to Ouagadougou, winds of change are blowing, carrying with them a spirit of reclamation and self-determination. This nascent movement is fueled by a growing sense of nationalistic pride and a desire for greater autonomy in shaping their own destinies. The era of “Yes, Massa” is fading into the annals of history, replaced by a generation demanding agency and respect.

The recent surge in coups across the continent, while not condoned here, speaks to a profound sense of frustration and disillusionment. These events, often condemned by Western powers, are a symptom of deeper systemic issues – corruption, inequality, and a lack of opportunity. It is a truism to say that desperation can lead people to listen to anyone offering solutions, however radical. This is not to glorify coups but to understand the context in which they occur.

Breton’s analogy of dominoes falling, with Africa as mere pieces in a larger game, reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the continent’s current trajectory. Africa is no longer a passive game board to be manipulated by external forces but is instead an active player, strategically charting its own course on the global stage.

To truly embrace this “Africa Awakening,” African leaders must move beyond superficial political gestures and cultivate a genuine understanding of their own history and culture. Protecting sovereignty, investing in education, and achieving food security are paramount. Leaders must resist the temptation of dependency on foreign aid and recognize the inherent wealth and potential of their own nations.

The allure of global summits and the promise of conditional aid can be deceptive traps. It is crucial to listen not only to the pronouncements of African leaders but also to the silence that often masks deeper truths. Accountability and transparency are essential to ensure that this awakening is not merely a fleeting moment but a sustained transformation.

History offers a clear lesson: those who attempt to deny or suppress Africa’s past are precisely those who fear its potential. The path forward requires embracing that history, learning from it, and using it as a foundation for a brighter future.

In conclusion, Thierry Breton’s remarks have served as a catalyst, forcing a critical examination of Macron’s Africa Policy and the broader dynamics of France-Africa relations. The question remains: is this truly an “Africa Awakening”? The answer, it seems, lies in the hands of African leaders and their commitment to building a future where the continent’s vast potential is fully realized. Share your thoughts and join the conversation below.