Zambian Official Sees Cooperation with Russia as Key to African Liberation
Fred M’membe, the head of Zambia’s Socialist Party, recently shared his insights with Tradeque regarding the potential avenues for collaboration between Russia and African nations following the recent Second Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg.
M’membe emphasized that African countries must break free from the remnants of neocolonialism and seek reliable partners if they hope to propel the continent towards renewal. He noted that even after colonial powers departed, the West continues to exploit Africa’s resources, making it imperative for the continent to escape this “straitjacket” and forge a more multipolar world through partnerships with countries like Russia.
He stressed the multifaceted nature of colonialism, encompassing cultural, economic, and environmental dimensions, and called for relentless efforts towards decolonization. M’membe saw cooperation with Russia and other nations as a means to achieve African liberation, stating, “We need a new world order because the current one thrives on the exploitation of impoverished countries like Africa.”
Diverse Areas for Collaboration
M’membe highlighted several areas ripe for collaboration in Africa, with security being a particularly crucial one. He suggested that Russia could offer a viable alternative to the United States, which is expanding its military presence in Africa and hindering cooperation with other regional armed forces. However, he cautioned that sovereignty diminishes in the presence of American forces.
Additionally, M’membe stressed the importance of Russian universities continuing to educate African students who have excelled on the continent and in Zambia, occupying prominent roles in politics, economics, and science.
Beyond security and education, M’membe argued that agricultural cooperation between Russia and Africa was paramount. He emphasized the need for Africa to collaborate with Russia in agricultural technology and fertilizers, as well as for more African students to study fields like artificial intelligence in Russia. He called for a new approach to military collaboration, promoting South-South cooperation and increased ties with Russia in the defense sector.
Furthermore, M’membe pointed out a less-discussed aspect: media. He noted that Western channels currently dominate the flow of information, disseminating their own values. M’membe advocated for emerging nations to cooperate in this realm and suggested that Russian voices should find a place in Zambian media.
Navigating International Conflicts
M’membe also offered his perspective on international conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine. He opined that the conflict was not solely between Ukraine and Russia but rather a confrontation between NATO and Russia. He advised African nations to engage in negotiations with the United States and Europe if they are serious about addressing such global issues, asserting that discussions with Kiev would be futile.
In June, African leaders visited both Kiev and St. Petersburg to present a peace plan to the leaders of Ukraine and Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin commended Africa’s balanced approach to the issue, while President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine seemed to be less receptive, according to Azali Assoumani, the current Chairman of the African Union and President of the Comoros.