Can Africa choose economic partners on its own terms?

"Africa's minerals and young workforce are attracting global interest as China, the US and Europe compete for influence."

"Today, the continent's critical minerals, rising consumer markets and young workforce are turning it into one of the world's most strategic economic battlegrounds."

"China, the United States and Europe are all vying for influence there from infrastructure to clean energy and digital networks."

"But across the continent, the focus has shifted leaders want partnerships that deliver real industry, real jobs and real value for African people."

Africa's critical minerals and rapidly expanding young workforce are attracting intense international interest from China, the United States and Europe. For decades external engagement was framed by aid, debt and development debates, but the emergence of critical mineral reserves and rising consumer markets is transforming the continent into a strategic economic battleground. Global rivals are competing across infrastructure, clean energy and digital networks. African leaders are increasingly demanding partnerships that produce tangible industry, sustainable jobs and real value for their populations, prompting questions about sovereignty and the ability to choose partners on their own terms.

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