By Rita Okoye

As global trade policies tighten and the United States reassesses its economic engagement with certain African countries, Nissi Ogulu believes this shift presents a valuable opportunity for Africa to prioritize internal trade and reduce reliance on international imports. According to her, this disguised benefit could compel African nations to strategically eliminate or reduce trade barriers that hinder the growth of trade within regional blocs.

For decades, Africa’s economies have leaned heavily on external economic initiatives such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). While these programs have provided market access and temporary relief, they have failed to spur sustainable, long-term economic transformation. Many African economies remain dependent on raw material exports, foreign aid, and external trade preferences rather than pursuing self-sufficiency and industrialization.

Africa holds approximately 30% of the world’s known mineral reserves, 40% of global gold reserves, and significant oil and natural gas deposits. The continent also possesses an estimated 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, positioning it as a potential key player in global food security and sustainable agriculture.

Ogulu emphasized the need for Africa to reassess how it utilizes these vast resources. “By leveraging our natural wealth, we can strengthen infrastructure and energy sectors through intracontinental investment and cooperation,” she stated.

To reduce dependency on external partners, Ogulu advocates for: Developing Regional Supply Chains: Refining raw materials locally and fostering regional supply chains can increase economic value.

Expanding Energy Infrastructure: Investing in renewable energy solutions and transnational oil and gas pipelines will bolster Africa’s energy independence.

Maximizing the AfCFTA: Prioritizing trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) can create a more integrated, self-sustaining economic environment.

Ogulu stressed that to achieve these goals, African governments and private sector stakeholders must transition from reliance on foreign aid and trade agreements toward strategic investment in industrialization, innovation, and infrastructure.

“This approach will not only enhance economic stability but also position Africa as a formidable player in the global economy,” she added.

In the words of the great African leader Julius Nyerere, “Without unity, there is no future for Africa. We must unite or perish.”