""The National Security Paper treats Africa as a region of low engagement," James Shikwati, a Kenyan economist, told DW. "It is obvious that his strategy runs counter to the aspirations of Africa's regional economic blocs," he said, adding that the blocs aim to integrate the economies of the regions and allow Africa to act as a single entity."
""If anything, it is likely to increase the number of conflicts, especially those over resources," he explained, pointing to the "emerging powers, the Gulf states, and even the European Union (EU), which are equally interested in these resources.""
The US National Security Strategy shifts focus from African development programs toward securing access to raw materials and energy projects. The strategy aims to work with selected countries to promote "mutually beneficial trade relations" and to exploit Africa's natural resources and economic potential, including advancing liquefied petroleum gas and liquefied natural gas technologies. Kenyan economist James Shikwati warns the approach treats Africa as a low-engagement region, undermining regional integration efforts and risking increased competition and conflicts over resources. UNDP's Ahunna Eziakonwa sees potential economic gains if expanded cooperation is paired with supportive development aid, which currently appears reduced.
#us-national-security-strategy #african-natural-resources #lnglpg-energy-projects #development-aid-cuts #resource-conflict-risk
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