How Well Do You Know Africa?

For centuries, strategies have been employed to manipulate African minds, potentially distorting our understanding of ourselves and instilling a strong sense of inferiority. One such manipulation is the visual illusion created by the world map, which misrepresents the true size of Africa.

Consider these facts: Africa’s total land area is larger than that of Europe, China, and the United States combined. It is three times the size of China, three times the size of Europe, and three times the size of the United States. This means that China, Europe, the United States, and several other countries could all fit within Africa’s borders. Africa spans 30.5 million square kilometers and is home to 1.3 billion people. In comparison, China covers 9.6 million square kilometers with a population of 1.4 billion, while India, at 3.3 million square kilometers, also has 1.4 billion inhabitants. Despite its vast size, Africa is often portrayed as overpopulated.

Africa boasts 60% of the world’s arable land, 90% of its raw material reserves, 40% of its gold reserves, 33% of its diamond reserves, and 95% of its platinum reserves. The continent also holds significant reserves of manganese, wood, iron, uranium, copper, and crude oil. Despite this wealth of resources, Africa is often depicted as the poverty capital of the world.

Former French President Jacques Chirac once illuminated the situation, stating, “We bled Africa for four and a half centuries. We looted their raw materials, destroyed their culture in the name of religion, and then, having enriched ourselves at their expense, we now steal their brains through miseducation and propaganda to prevent them from seeking retribution.” This statement underscores Africa’s lack of control over its resources for centuries.

Reports from 2016 indicate that 101 primarily British companies control $305 billion worth of platinum, $276 billion worth of oil, and $216 billion worth of coal at 2016 market prices. These companies own mines and mineral licenses in 37 African countries and control land four times the size of the UK. Africa subsidizes the rest of the world by $32 billion annually.

A 2017 report revealed that $161 billion enters Africa while $202 billion leaves the continent annually. For instance, in 2017, Africa received $19 billion in aid but paid back $18 billion in debt repayments. This debt burden is crippling African economies, with governments borrowing between 25% and 75% of their GDP.

Illegal fishing and poaching further exacerbate Africa’s challenges, with an estimated $29 billion lost annually. These statistics paint a grim picture of Africa’s economic situation.

It is imperative that Africa gains control of its resources. The issue is not the age of its leaders but the lack of fortitude. It is our duty to protect and defend Africa. Understanding Africa’s true position in the world is crucial for peace of mind and charting a path to prosperity.

The Marine Foundation’s platform of development offers a beacon of hope for Africa. Through its innovative approach to development, the foundation aims to address the root causes of Africa’s challenges and pave the way for sustainable growth and prosperity. With the Marine Foundation’s support, Africa can overcome its obstacles and realize its full potential on the global stage.