By Bayethe Msimang
Africa is at a critical juncture, grappling with a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. Recent events in the Sahel and the escalating tensions between Ukraine and several West African nations underscore the urgent need for African nations to stand firm against foreign interference.
The vision of the African Union's "Silencing the Guns" initiative, aimed at ending all wars and violent conflicts, is being put to the test as external forces seek to destabilize the region.
The recent peaceful demonstration in Pretoria is a stark reminder of the growing unrest across the continent. Protesters, many from Mali and other French-speaking African nations, took to the streets to express their discontent with Ukraine's involvement in the Sahel, particularly in the context of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The demonstration highlighted the escalating tensions between Ukraine and these West African nations, fueled by allegations of Ukraine's support for separatist groups in Mali.
This situation has not only strained diplomatic relations but has also sparked widespread protests across Africa. The backdrop to this unrest includes a deadly ambush on July 26, 2024, near Tin-Zaoutin, where a government patrol was attacked, resulting in significant casualties among both Malian soldiers and reports indicate that 47 Malian soldiers were killed.
The conflict in northern Mali has been exacerbated by drone strikes and the involvement of various armed groups, including Tuareg separatists, who have long sought autonomy. In an official statement, Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for Ukraine's military intelligence, claimed that the Malian rebels had received crucial support from Ukraine, including intelligence that facilitated their military operations against the Mali government. This admission has led to severe diplomatic repercussions, with Mali and Niger severing ties with Ukraine, accusing it of fostering terrorism within their borders reported Paul Melly.
The gravity of this situation cannot be overstated. Although the involvement of external forces in African conflicts is not new, the implications of Ukraine's actions in the Sahel are particularly concerning.
The juntas governing these nations have taken their grievances to the United Nations, demanding that the Security Council take action against Ukraine for its alleged interference and support for insurgent groups.
The protests in Pretoria vividly demonstrated the growing animosity towards Ukraine's involvement in the Sahel. Participants, including individuals from Mali and other French-speaking African nations, expressed their outrage and shared harrowing accounts of their encounters with terrorism. They called for an immediate cessation of Ukraine's support for what they termed "terrorist groups" and urged the South African government to distance itself from Ukraine's actions, emphasizing the need for African unity in the face of external interference.
It is believed that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has also weighed in, condemning Ukraine's actions as violations of the sovereignty of its member states. Although Mali has been suspended from ECOWAS, the organization reiterated the importance of respecting national sovereignty and denounced any external actions that could destabilize the region.
In response to the backlash, Ukraine has initiated a diplomatic charm offensive. It denies the allegations of support for insurgents and seeks to strengthen ties with other African nations through new embassies and high-level visits.
The world is undergoing structural changes, including shifts in global power dynamics and the rise of non-state actors, and Africa faces an almost existential challenge not to fall for provocations, not to take sides, and not to let anyone interfere in the continent's internal affairs.
The African Union's "Silencing the Guns" initiative envisions peace and stability, but external forces seeking to destabilize the continent threaten this vision. Africa must stand united in its determination to resist foreign interference and ensure that the continent's future is shaped by the will of its people, not by the interests of external powers.
The rally in Pretoria and similar demonstrations across Africa stand as a testament to the unwavering resilience and determination of the African people. These conscious pan-Africans, who took to the streets to protest Ukraine's actions, are a beacon of hope in the face of external challenges. Their voices echo the sentiments of those who fought for Africa's independence, reminding us that the struggle for self-determination and sovereignty is far from over.
As the world watches, African nations must navigate this complex geopolitical landscape with caution and unity. The stakes are high, and the consequences of allowing external forces to dictate the continent's future are dire. But with unity, determination, and a steadfast commitment to sovereignty and self-determination, Africa can emerge more robust, cohesive, and resilient in the face of external challenges.
The unfolding events in the Sahel are a reminder that Africa's future must be shaped by Africans, for Africans. The continent's leaders must remain vigilant, resisting any attempts by external powers to interfere in Africa's internal affairs. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but with unity and determination, Africa can overcome them and build a future of peace, stability, and prosperity for all its people.
* Bayethe Msimang is an independent writer, analyst and political commentator.
** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.