Italy’s Africa Summit Sparks Reflection On Continent’s Role and Self-Sufficiency

By Adonis Byemelwa

In an unprecedented development, Italy has extended an invitation to African leaders for the Italy-Africa Summit on January 28 and 29, 2024, closely following a similar invitation from Saudi Arabia in November 2023.

This move aligns with the increasing resonance of Africa's voice on the global stage, echoing calls from major players like the US, China, and Russia. However, concerns arise as the summit's theme emphasizes, "A Continent Rich in Resources, Led Astray by Leadership Woes."

In 2022 Italy took a significant step in strengthening its energy sector by signing a Declaration of Intent with Angola during the latest visit by Italy's Minister of Foreign Affairs to African nations.

The agreement focused on developing partnerships and joint projects in the natural gas sector, with a particular emphasis on decarbonization and energy transition in Angola.

The move comes as Italy aims to diversify its energy sources, reducing dependency on Russian gas, which currently accounts for about 40% of its imports.

Minister Luigi Di Maio, expressing the importance of the agreement, highlighted the commitment to enhance gas supply and underscored the broader strategy to secure energy partnerships with African nations.

This initiative aligns with Italy's broader plan to cut reliance on Russian energy reserves by 2023, with similar agreements in place or progress with Algeria, Congo, Egypt, and Mozambique.

Italy, heavily reliant on Africa for over 40% of its energy needs, is committing a substantial €3 billion annually (equivalent to TZS 9,000,000,000) for a four-year plan.

This development has sparked discussions about Africa's dependence and the imperative for self-reflection.

As a continent abundant in terrestrial, aerial, and marine resources, questions linger on why African nations consistently respond to individual invitations from foreign entities.

The need for a collective voice becomes evident—prompting considerations about initiating discussions on Africa's terms.

Historically more a participant than an initiator in global dialogues, Africa faces a pivotal moment. Should the continent not reconsider its approach to invitations, focusing on internal fundraising and efficient utilization, akin to strategies employed by major counterparts such as Europe, the US, Russia, and China?

With invitations pouring in, there is a growing call to reassess the costs and benefits of attendance. Questions arise about the expenses incurred by African nations on these trips and the tangible benefits derived, prompting a call for a critical evaluation.

In an era emphasizing unity, it seems high time for Africa to present a united front, speaking with one voice on critical issues like poverty and resource mismanagement. The prevailing trend of sporadic attendance may no longer serve the continent's best interests.

As Africa navigates the complexities of international relations, the Italy-Africa Summit raises fundamental questions about agency, self-sufficiency, and the continent's role in shaping its destiny.

The ball is now in Africa's court—will it remain a passive participant or seize the opportunity to redefine its narrative?

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr January Makamba, will represent President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the fourth Italy-Africa Summit, where Italy is set to unveil a new foreign policy for Africa. The summit, scheduled for Sunday and Monday, will cover a range of topics, including economic growth, infrastructure development, migrant involvement in development, food security, counterterrorism efforts, and digital technology usage.

Over 50 delegations, primarily from African countries, along with European leaders and representatives of international organizations, are expected to attend.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's new plan, named after Enrico Mattei, the founder of Italian energy giant Eni, aims to review Italy's approach to the African continent. Italy is also anticipated to announce support for the African Union's membership in the G-20.

Furthermore, Italy aims to use the summit to showcase its commitment to transferring modern agricultural technology to African countries and positioning itself as a hub for energy distribution from the African continent, according to a statement from Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation.

The Italy-Africa summit has gained attention, notably with Tanzania's President Samia being invited to the Vatican by Pope Francis. This event has sparked headlines and discussions in extreme papers and social media.

Former President Julius Kambarage Nyerere's perspective on partnerships between developed and developing nations is relevant here, suggesting the likelihood of exploitation rather than meaningful collaboration.

In light of this, Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao's advocacy for unity among Africans, both on the continent and in the diaspora, gains significance.

She emphasizes the need for organizing to build the Africa we desire, highlighting the challenges faced by people of African descent, including discrimination and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Dr. Chihombori-Quao's critique extends to the education system, echoing concerns raised by Nyerere, emphasizing the importance of restructuring to address mental and physical colonization.

According to her, the absence of Kwame Nkrumah's books in many African universities becomes a point of reflection on the failure to instill anti-colonial values in the youth.

The news of President Samia's Vatican visit drew attention, with controversy surrounding the circumstances.

An activist in exile, Ansbert Ngurumo, criticized Tanzania's foreign affairs ministry, alleging that the meeting was sought by Tanzania to mend ties after criticism of the Tanzania-Dubai port privatization deal.

The deal has since been finalized, with DP-World, a  Dubai Company, now owning a portion of the port amidst public outcry.

These events underscore the complex dynamics between African nations and external partners, raising questions about the nature of partnerships and the potential for exploitation.