A geopolitical shift is reshaping Africa’s relationship with Europe. Once tethered by colonial history and economic dependency, several African nations are actively redefining their diplomatic engagements. Increasingly, governments are severing ties with European powers, citing political interference, economic exploitation, and unresolved historical grievances. As sovereignty takes precedence, the continent is forging new alliances. But what is fuelling this realignment? And how will it redefine Africa’s global influence?
Rwanda and Belgium
On 17 March 2025, Rwanda made headlines by cutting diplomatic ties with Belgium, giving Belgian diplomats 48 hours to leave. The decision stemmed from escalating tensions over Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) conflict. Kigali accused Belgium of undermining its sovereignty, advocating European sanctions, and perpetuating a neocolonial stance reminiscent of its colonial past.
Rwanda’s Foreign Ministry issued a scathing statement, condemning Belgium for fueling ethnic divisions that contributed to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and for allegedly sheltering groups that deny the genocide. In response, Belgium called the move disproportionate, expelled Rwandan diplomats, and terminated development aid. The incident underscores mounting tensions between African nations and former colonial powers, particularly over accusations of external interference.
Mali and Burkina Faso
Mali and Burkina Faso, both former French colonies, have taken decisive steps to reduce French influence. On the same day as Rwanda’s move, Mali announced its withdrawal from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), citing selective sanctions and violations of its sovereignty. This followed Mali’s earlier expulsion of French troops and its deepening military ties with Russia.
Burkina Faso swiftly followed, also withdrawing from the OIF and accusing France of fostering instability. These actions highlight a broader regional trend: West African nations are pivoting away from French influence in favour of emerging global powers like Russia and China. Their departure from Francophone institutions signals a determination to rewrite economic and security policies on their own terms.
Niger and Ukraine
In an unexpected diplomatic rift, Niger severed ties with Ukraine on 7 August 2024, accusing Kyiv of supporting terrorist groups operating within its borders. This move mirrors a growing trend among West African nations reassessing their foreign alliances, particularly in the context of security concerns. The allegation of foreign interference in domestic security affairs reflects Africa’s increasing scepticism of external involvement in its internal stability.
The Central African Republic (CAR) and France
The Central African Republic (CAR) has seen its relations with France deteriorate over the years. The CAR government has repeatedly accused France of meddling in its internal affairs, leading to reduced diplomatic engagement. As France’s influence wanes, Russia has stepped in, with the Wagner Group playing a significant security role in the country. This realignment highlights Africa’s willingness to seek alternative partners who offer military and economic support without historical baggage.
Key Drivers of the Diplomatic Shift
The growing rift between African nations and European powers stems from several critical factors:
- Assertion of Sovereignty – Many African leaders view former colonial powers as maintaining undue influence over domestic policies. Cutting ties signals a broader push for self-determination and independent governance.
- Geopolitical Realignment – With China, Russia, and Turkey increasing their presence in Africa, nations are exploring partnerships that provide economic and security advantages without colonial-era constraints.
- Resource Control and Economic Interests – Disputes over the exploitation of Africa’s natural resources fuel resentment. Accusations of unfair trade practices and resource extraction by European countries have strengthened calls for greater local control.
- Security and Military Alliances – Countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and CAR are shifting away from European military aid in favour of alternative security arrangements with partners that impose fewer political conditions.
- Colonial Legacy and Historical Grievances – The continued presence of European institutions and influence is increasingly seen as a relic of colonial rule. Governments are reassessing these ties in an effort to decolonise their foreign policies.
The severing of ties between African nations and European powers is not a series of isolated events but a broader geopolitical transformation. As African governments assert their sovereignty and diversify their global partnerships, Europe must rethink its approach to the continent.
This shift comes with challenges. Economic dependencies, security concerns, and regional stability will shape the future of these evolving relationships. The question is no longer whether Africa will continue on this path, but how Europe will respond to a continent determined to shape its own destiny. The coming years will reveal whether this transformation fosters new partnerships based on mutual respect—or leads to further estrangement between Africa and the West.
King Richard Igimoh is an award-winning communication strategist with over two decades of experience in the field. He excels in Diplomacy, Journalism, Economic and International Affairs. As the Group Editor and a key member of the management team at the African Leadership Organisation, he continues to contribute significantly to promoting Africa’s dignity and opportunities globally
