Colonization is the process of establishing control over the indigenous people of an area. During colonization the colonialists argued that they were acting in the best interests of those whose lands and peoples they exploited.
Just like other African countries, Uganda that is celebrating 60 years of independence isn’t truly independent. Despite being the richest continent, Africa remains the most underdeveloped part of the world. Her wealth has not been a blessing but a curse that has turned her into the most underdeveloped continent on the planet. Her wealth attracted imperialists that have exploited Africa to date.
Ever since the early years of 19th Century Africa has faced multiple imperialist aggressions, diplomatic pressures, military invasion and conquest. The first African country to have allegedly gained independence was Ghana in 1957 and the last was Namibia. All these days are still celebrated by Africans with joy and excitement.
Independence days were just hoodwinking events meant to please Africa.
Independence celebrations are nothing but an illusion that are supposed to make Africans feel like they independent. The imperialists were smart, so they didn’t grant African countries independence without keeping control over the African economy and natural resources.
Colonization is still present in Africa
Imperialists keep taking her minerals and agricultural products from Africa at the cheapest possible prices. Manufacturing by Africans is forbidden and African enterprise is eliminated in every possible way. This is done by making Africa unstable politically and economically.
Politically by creating wars and funding coups. Since 1960, over 68 coups have been carried out in Africa. Economically by giving Africa loans with High Interest rates and unfair terms and conditions.
Independence undoubtedly improved life for some on the continent, for the most part, it did not mean freedom rather, it marked the internationalization of colonialism. It was a tool that transformed Africans from being the objects of colonial subjugation into partners in their own exploitation. Africa is still being destabilized and manipulated so that her former colonizers can still make profit. Despite constant oppression Africa must fight to be truly independent.
Total independence can only be achieved when there is economic independence. Africa’s economic independence lies in her own power to produce to create and to adapt. That’s true financial independence. It’s not having wealth, it’s having the power to produce wealth
For God and my country. God bless Africa.
The author is a political analyst.
