Africa must break chains of neo-colonialism, build from within, Ras Mubarak

Former Ghanaian MP Ras Mubarak has called on African youth to take charge of the continent's future. He spoke at Ibn Haldun University in Istanbul on African Union (AU) Day. His speech was titled “Empowering Africa’s Future: Breaking Free from Neo-Colonialism and Embracing Pan-Africanism and South-South Cooperation.”

Mubarak urged young Africans to reject neo-colonial dependencies. He emphasized the need for homegrown solutions based on Pan-African ideals and cooperation among Southern nations. He challenged the current generation to redefine Africa's future by shedding foreign influence.

He criticized Africa's ongoing economic dependence on former colonial powers. Mubarak noted that this legacy has evolved but not disappeared. He pointed to West Africa’s stalled single currency project as an example of political will lacking due to foreign interests.

“Our leaders are often beholden to foreign interests,” he said, referring to Western powers benefiting from Africa's division. He highlighted the absurdity of intra-African travel restrictions, such as requiring visas between neighboring countries.

“This is not logistics; it is a colonial legacy,” he stated. Mubarak also discussed a “political awakening” in the Sahel region, particularly in Burkina Faso under Captain Ibrahim Traoré. Though unelected, Traoré has been praised for reclaiming national sovereignty and renegotiating mining contracts.

“He is celebrated because he serves his people, not submits,” Mubarak declared. He argued that traditional Western democracy has failed many African nations and stressed that true democracy must prioritize independence and dignity.

Mubarak described recent changes in the Sahel as a rebirth rather than instability. He encouraged African youth to draw inspiration from indigenous knowledge instead of Western narratives. He advocated for deeper cooperation with countries like China, Russia, Brazil, and Turkey.

Throughout his speech, he emphasized the critical role of youth in transforming Africa. “You are not the leaders of tomorrow; you are the leaders of now,” he asserted.

Mubarak concluded by calling for solidarity with Palestinians, linking their struggle with Africa’s history of colonization. He described Israel as a "gangster terrorist entity" and urged African students to advocate for Palestinian liberation.

“Let us work together for a brighter future shaped by our own values,” he said optimistically about Africa's potential if its people unite against challenges.

His speech sparked discussions among African students in Turkey about self-determination and genuine sovereignty across the continent.