Africa for Africans: The west must let go of the levers of exploitation

### A History of Extraction, Not Partnership

The West's wealth did not appear out of nowhere. It was built on African labor.

For example, the United States enriched its economy through the transatlantic slave trade. This dark chapter laid the foundation for the nation’s economy. The effects are still visible today in how African nations are treated.

African countries are seen as labor markets and raw material providers. They are not viewed as equal partners.

Britain, a symbol of colonialism, built its wealth through exploitation. It drained Ghana's resources while developing railroads and industries for itself.

France also exploited West Africa with the CFA franc system. Countries like Mali, Niger, Benin, and Togo remained economically dependent after "independence." France extracted resources while keeping control over their economies.

### Trump’s Disrespect: A Symbol of Deeper Disdain

Former President Donald Trump’s administration showed a lack of respect for African leadership. He reportedly called African nations “s**thole countries.”

Trump questioned why the U.S. accepted immigrants from Africa instead of Europe. These comments reflected a mindset rooted in Western superiority.

He ignored key diplomatic relations with African leaders, including South Africa’s president. This sent a clear message: Africa deserved no respect or engagement.

### Visa Fees and Modern Gatekeeping

One ironic example of Western hypocrisy is visa costs for Africans traveling to the U.S. or Europe.

Visa fees can reach hundreds of dollars in many African economies, often without approval guarantees. Meanwhile, Westerners enter most African countries at little to no cost.

They often come to scout minerals or exploit labor under “investment” claims. This is not policy; it is economic apartheid.

### Donor Support or Debt in Disguise?

What the West calls “donor support” often resembles loans and conditional assistance. This approach maintains control rather than building local capacity.

It is disingenuous for Western governments to claim generosity while profiting from Africa's resources and cheap labor. Many governments donate millions but extract billions annually from Africa's minerals and oil.

How can one give with one hand while robbing with the other?

### Africa for Africans: The Road to Self-Governance

Africa must reclaim control over its resources and development models by:

- Renegotiating trade contracts to keep benefits within African economies.
- Removing colonial economic structures that undermine sovereignty.
- Challenging racist immigration policies that humiliate African travelers.
- Building Pan-African unity to resist exploitation collectively.

The West must let go—not as a favor but as a moral necessity. Africa is not a charity case; it deserves its rightful place globally.

Let it be known: Africa is for Africans. The era of exploitation must end, and global respect must begin now.