Riddler :
We were forced and pressured by the Europeans to sign treaties because we did not have the manpower, weapons, or political unity to resist them. Many African chiefs and kings did not fully understand what those treaties meant. They believed they were making trade or friendship agreements, but in reality, the Europeans used those documents to take control of land, trade, and resources.
When the Europeans took over, they controlled everything including the land, the markets, the ports, and the laws. They used Africa’s natural resources such as palm oil, cocoa, and gold to build their industries in Europe. Africans did most of the labour, but the profits went back to European companies and governments.
After gaining independence in the 1950s and 1960s, several African leaders tried to reduce European control and regain power over their countries’ resources. In Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah (Prime Minister from 1957 to 1966) promoted African ownership of industries and wanted economic freedom. In Tanzania, Julius Nyerere (President from 1961 to 1985) introduced a policy called Ujamaa, which focused on socialism and local development. In Nigeria, Obafemi Awolowo and later Yakubu Gowon worked to expand local industries and reduce dependence on foreign companies after independence in 1960.
Even though these leaders tried to rebuild their nations, it was not easy. European countries and their companies still had more money, technology, and experience. Many African economies had been structured to serve European interests for so long that it was difficult to change. Some African leaders accepted foreign help or loans to keep their countries running, while others were influenced by pressure and personal gain. Unfortunately, a few leaders took bribes or made secret deals that allowed foreign companies to stay in control.
Because of this, companies like Unilever continued to operate powerfully in Africa even after independence. They opened local factories and hired African workers, but much of the profit still went back to Europe. This created a system where Africa remained dependent on foreign companies for goods, jobs, and investment.
2025-10-30 15:16:51