N'DJAMENA, Feb. 4 (Xinhua) -- The end of French military presence in Chad, as was announced by Chadian President Mahamat Deby last week, marks the end of over 120 years of French military involvement in the country and a significant step for African nations toward independence.
Colonialism left a permanent scar on Africa. From the transatlantic slave trade in the 16th century to the "Scramble for Africa" in the 19th century, Western powers fragmented the continent, using force and unequal treaties. Millions of Africans were forcibly transported as slaves, while Africa's wealth in minerals, gold, ivory and other resources was plundered. These colonial acts destroyed Africa's social structures and left wounds that are still difficult to heal.
Though many African nations gained independence in the mid-20th century, some Western countries continue to interfere in African nations' internal affairs through financial, legal and military means, particularly in sectors like finance, energy, minerals and defense. This "new colonialism" has restrained Africa's growth and prosperity.
In recent years, Africa has been undergoing a remarkable transformation. Industrialization is steadily advancing, and the push for unity and self-reliance is becoming increasingly prominent. Africa's rapid development has attracted global attention. Yet some Western politicians, while publicly professing concern for Africa, continue to spread ideas like "Africa's ingratitude" and "the gifts of colonialism," showing a deep-seated colonial mindset that has stirred resentment across the continent.
Today, African nations are striving for strategic autonomy under Pan-Africanism, accelerating efforts for regional integration, development and revitalization.
Africa is no longer the "hopeless continent" portrayed by Western media, but rather a source of vitality and a land of opportunity. According to the International Monetary Fund, Africa's economy is expected to grow in 2025, with Sub-Saharan Africa's growth rate forecast to reach 4.2 percent, surpassing the global average.
An awakening Africa is taking its future in its own hands. Politically, African nations are taking a firm stand against external interference and sanctions, demanding apologies and reparations for the slave trade, and calling for the correction of historical injustices. Economically, African countries are deepening industrial reforms and advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area to unlock further economic potential. On security, Africa is adopting "African solutions to African problems," safeguarding national security and resolving regional disputes.
As a key member of the Global South, Africa is progressing toward an important pillar of global political, economic and cultural development.
In recent years, the African Union has joined the Group of 20, and countries like Ethiopia have joined the BRICS mechanism. Africa's voice on the international stage is growing louder, with a strong presence in global governance.
The declining influence of Western powers in Africa highlights a paradigm shift that underscores the continent's aspiration for equal and true partnerships with the rest of the world. Africa's awakening is not just an African story. It is a story of all humanity. The moral of the story is that true partnerships must be built on equality and respect. ■
