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United States Strategy toward Sub-Saharan Africa vs Chinese Influence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (By Jean-Pierre ALUMBA LUKAMBA)

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United States Strategy toward Sub-Saharan Africa vs Chinese Influence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (By Jean-Pierre ALUMBA LUKAMBA)

It is critical that the United States works to rebalance its relations with African countries, especially as the continent undergoes dramatic demographic and economic changes

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, June 27, 2024/APO Group/ — 

By Jean-Pierre ALUMBA LUKAMBA. Jean-Pierre Alumba Lukamba is the International Executive Director for AFRICAN DIASPORA FOR DEVELOPMENT (http://www.African-Diaspora.org).

U.S. policymakers on both sides of the aisle have grown more anxious about Russia and China influence on the African continent as China/Russia-Africa relations have deepened in a variety of areas, including trade and commercial ties, military-security relations, and technology. However, American policymakers across the political spectrum have not prioritized African countries when it comes to U.S. foreign policy plans. Rather, Washington’s limited focus on Africa has lacked coordination and now is often unsettled by an ill-defined concept of “Chinese/Russia influence.” 

In August 2022, U.S. President Joe Biden launched U.S new Strategy toward Sub-Saharan Africa, but it looks also like another U.S. African strategy business as usually because it’s not talking to the African people. It’s a kind of up – up approach, not as it should be, bottom up approach with more emphasize on American and African people to people solidarity to strengthen the historical ties between the two peoples. 

It is critical that the United States works to rebalance its relations with African countries, especially as the continent undergoes dramatic demographic and economic changes. Africa’s population is expected to double to 2.5 billion by 2050, accounting for more than one-quarter of the global population. In addition, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the continent was home to 7 of the world’s 10 fastest-growing economies. As Africa expert Judd Devermont argues, “Every global problem is going to have an African dimension to it.” From climate change and pandemic responses to cyber governance, African countries are sure to play a significant role in the future of global affairs.

U.S. policymakers must realize that if they are unable to advance U.S.-Africa relations in the near future, especially in upcoming U.S – Africa Summit this in December, they will miss a crucial opportunity to participate in a rapidly changing region where American national interests are at stake.

Most importantly, the United States cannot continue to rely solely on a strategy of criticizing Chinese and Russian’s engagement across Africa.

This piece of opinion outlines key facts regarding the DRC that U.S. policymakers need to understand in order to get U.S. Africa-focused policy. Here are some key factors about the DRC:

  • The Democratic Republic of the Congo is the second largest country in Africa. It borders nine countries: Angola, Burundi, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia;
  • With the population around 100 million, with estimated 74% of youth, the people of the DRC represent over 200 ethnic groups, with nearly 250 languages and dialects spoken throughout the country. Kinshasa, the capital, is the second largest French-speaking city in the world;
  • The DRC is among the most resource-rich countries on the planet, with an abundance of gold, cobalt, Uranium, Diamond, tantalum, tungsten, and tin – all minerals used in electronics such as cell phones and laptops, the country has also hydropower potential, significant arable land, immense biodiversity, and the world’s second-largest rainforest;

The U.S. should support the implementation of the DRC vision as a business land

  • Music is its biggest export;
  • On October 30, 1974, boxer Muhammad Ali, nicknamed “The Greatest,” reclaimed the word heavyweight title by winning the “Rumble in the Jungle” against George Foreman in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo);
  • Former NBA All-Star Dikembe Mutombo was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In 1997, he founded a humanitarian foundation to improve the health, education and quality of life for the people in the DRC;
  • DRC is one of the most important countries in Africa for biodiversity conservation. More than 81 million people live here — as do a number of spectacular endemic species like the okapi, Grauer’s gorilla, bonobo, and Congo peacock along with over 400 other species of mammals, over 1,000 bird species, over 400 fish species, and over 10,000 species of plants;

In the DRC, only 1.8% of existing roads are tarred and less than 10% of the population has access to electricity today. Recently there have been pushes to improve, including the announcement of  $1 billion package from the World Bank for infrastructure development;

In view of the above, it can be seen that the DRC can easily offer business opportunities in the following sectors:

  • Agribusiness;
  • Infrastructure development;
  • Energy, water and sanitation;
  • Waste Management;
  • Property development;
  • Banking;
  • Insurance;
  • Media;
  • Clothing;
  • Food and beverage;
  • Education;
  • Health;
  • Hospitality industry;
  • Tourism;
  • Manufacturing industry;
  • Public transport;
  • Ports and airports;
  • Petrol and gas;
  • Mining.

These business opportunities between the United States and the DRC can only be possible through the existence of a responsible leadership in the DRC. This will enable respect of human rights, democracy, good governance, social well-being, open society, peace and security, trade and investment, development and excellent business climate.

Currently the country is plagued by corruption, embezzlement of public funds, mismanagement squanders natural resources, food insecurity, bad governance, abuse of human rights, destruction of fauna and flora by the Chinese, lack of adequate public infrastructure, poverty, lack of development vision as well as security conflicts with certain neighboring countries. Added to this is the 2023 chaotic election which created a lot questions regarding the legitimacy of the current DRC regime.

However the U.S. administration and CSOs can work together with the Congolese people through the CSOs and FBOs to change the current situation for the betterment of both people and pave the way for peace, stability and development in the DRC.

Recommendations

  • US to have a significant discussions with the DRC current regime in considering peace talks with the current main Congolese armed group the Alliance Fleuve Congo “AFC” lead by Corneille NANGAA;
  • US officials to distance themselves from the DRC officials involved in organizing the country 2023 chaotic elections including all who are involved in systemic corruption, hate speeches, state crimes, serious abuse of human rights and the leaders of the urban militia group called Forces du Progrès operating mainly in Kinshasa;
  • US to identify and work with new emerging potential visionary leaders in the DRC for peace, stability and the development of the DRC and the Great Lakes Region of Africa;
  • To encourage U.S. companies and CSOs to invest and implement projects in the following sectors : economy, Health, Education, Tourism and Agribusiness;
  • To promote  sport and cultural exchange projects between U.S. and Congolese citizens;

CONCLUSION

What facilitates the Russian and Chinese influence in the DRC is the ease in obtaining visa as well as the numerous scholarships that these countries grant to Congolese, especially to young people. If the U.S. wants to maintain and guaranty his ties with the DRC, the U.S. policies and decisions makers should take into account the above strategy used by Russian and Chinese emphasizing sustainable development, human right, social well-being of the population, youth entrepreneurship and open society.

The U.S. should support the implementation of the DRC vision as a business land.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Diaspora for Development (ADD).

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Emerson Partners with MSTelcom to Provide Advanced Industrial Automation in Angola

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July 2, 2024

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Agreement allows MSTelcom to support regional customers in Angola with advanced automation software and technologies to drive high performance industrial operations

LUANDA, Angola, July 1, 2024/APO Group/ — 

MSTelcom, a subsidiary of the Sonangol Group, has chosen Emerson (www.Emerson.com) to provide the company’s full automation portfolio for energy and industrial customers in Angola, further advancing the country’s objectives of leadership in hydrocarbon production. Emerson, a global leader in automation technology and industrial software, announced their collaboration aimed at expanding MSTelcom’s ability to provide engineering services to energy and industrial customers.

The alliance enables MSTelcom to provide the latest automation technologies to help the firm’s clients improve energy production, equipment availability, production optimization, safety and environmental sustainability.

Our work together will bridge MSTelcom’s information technology expertise with Emerson’s advanced automation portfolio

Automation is increasingly seen as a key enabler for leaders like Sonangal to maximize production performance like oil and gas recovery, while also advancing their commitments for emissions reductions. Emerson’s portfolio is expected to provide advanced automation to MSTelcom, supporting their leadership in engineering and communications services and vision of continuous innovation and sustainability.

“This partnership with Emerson is a significant milestone that will allow MSTelcom to incorporate cutting-edge automation solutions as well as improve our operational efficiency by providing our customers with industry-leading automation software and technologies.” said Felisberta de Jesus, president of the executive board of MSTelcom.

“Our work together will bridge MSTelcom’s information technology expertise with Emerson’s advanced automation portfolio,” said Mathias Schinzel, president of Emerson in Middle East & Africa. “Together, our aim is to help modernize the Angolan energy and industrial infrastructure with the latest innovations for sustainable and reliable performance, helping reinforce Angola’s global leadership in energy production through digital transformation.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Emerson

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A bigger and better government offering, strongly positioned, and elevated at Mining Indaba 2025 (MI25), designed with attendees in mind

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July 2, 2024

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Mining Indaba is investing significantly in ensuring the presence of a larger mining government contingency in 2025

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, July 1, 2024/APO Group/ — 

As the African mining industry continues to grow, the role government must fulfil in ensuring sustainable investment and development is becoming increasingly important. In acknowledgement of this, Mining Indaba (www.MiningIndaba.com) is investing significantly in ensuring the presence of a larger mining government contingency in 2025.

Enhanced government proposition

In support of this objective, ensuring the voice of government mining and supporting ministries will be heard across the event – not only in the government-dedicated Intergovernmental Summit, but across all key programmes including Disruptive Discussions, Sustainability Series and Technology and Innovation.

“Our government activity will also take place in a new home for 2025 – the CTICC 2 building – which will provide a larger space for ministers to engage collaboratively, greater attendance opportunities at the Ministerial Symposium and more effective engagement and time in our Intergovernmental Summit, new country investment forums, and traditional country showcases. As the government hub – we will offer ministers a single point of contact from which they can navigate the full Mining Indaba event comfortably and frequently,” says Zeinab El-Sayed, Head of Government Partnerships.

Future-proofing government focus

The 2025 theme, “Future-proofing African Mining, Today!” is anchored on six key content pillars, emphasising equality for all, to guide Mining Indaba’s future objectives. Future-proofing from a government perspective involves implementing policies and regulations that ensure sustainable development, environmental protection, and social responsibility in the mining industry. It also involves fostering innovation and technology adoption to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in the sector.

“Cross-border cooperation is essential for governments to address the challenges facing their countries in an increasingly interconnected world. In order to future-proof their economies, governments ought to collaborate with each other and engage with the private sector to implement effective and sustainable policies. The success of these partnerships will be crucial in ensuring that the continent remains competitive and resilient in the face of evolving global challenges,” continues El-Sayed.

As the government hub – we will offer ministers a single point of contact from which they can navigate the full Mining Indaba event comfortably and frequently

“A future-proof mining ministry is one that looks at how to encourage investment with the ultimate objective of creating sustainable and economic wealth for every African country. This requires collaboration – between governments, as well as industry, to ensure an aligned approach that responds to challenges around regulatory environments, infrastructure needs and community support. Mining Indaba will remain the platform to provide solutions and facilitate conversations that lead to positive outcomes in this regard,” highlights Laura Cornish, Head of Content & Strategic Partnerships.

What can attendees expect in 2025?

NEW FOR 2025

  • Country Investment Forums

Closed door discussion that will bring together ministries, community representatives, mining companies, investors, and chambers of mines to discuss ideas and address concerns, aiming to enhance each country’s investment profile with actionable outcomes.

  • Investment guides

These guides will provide detailed information on investment opportunities, regulatory frameworks, and potential risks for interested parties. Additionally, attendees can look forward to interactive workshops and networking opportunities to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders.

IMPROVED FOR 2025

  • Ministerial Symposium

Attendees can expect engaging discussions on innovative solutions for sustainable development, networking opportunities with industry leaders, and the chance to contribute to shaping the future of African value chains. The symposium will provide a platform for sharing best practices, fostering partnerships, and driving actionable outcomes to advance socio-economic growth in the region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Investing in African Mining Indaba.

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From Sustainability to Personalisation – Mid-year Retail Trends 2024

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July 2, 2024

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This year, consumers are carefully prioritising resources – with many people worldwide now looking for more deals and discounts to carefully balance their household budgets

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, July 1, 2024/APO Group/ — 

Reaching any midpoint, whether it’s to catch one’s breath on a ultra-marathon to gear up for the next stretch, or a project team reflecting on their progress and making necessary modifications – it’s all about positioning for success. So too a mid-year retail check-in offers valuable insights into some of the latest developments shaping how retailers connect with consumers and drive innovation in the second half of this year.

Overview | Global & Local

The rise and rise of ecommerce, the integration of online and offline, platforming sustainability, contactless and convenient quick and easy payment options, price-sensitive pricing strategies and building customer loyalty – dominated the past six months.

So too, and no surprises here, but the broader classification of the consumer is changing yet again. If 2023 was the year of the resilient consumer, it seems that 2024 is seeing the year of the empowered consumer. Mastercard Data & Services [May 2024] reported that despite rising interest rates, inflation and the threat of a recession, consumers still confidently spent in 2023. This year however, consumers are carefully prioritising resources – with many people worldwide now looking for more deals and discounts to carefully balance their household budgets. Technology is also playing a bigger role in bringing innovation and efficiency to retailers and consumers, reflecting a more concerted shift towards a customer-centric and digitally driven retail landscape.

“Don’t blink was my pennies worth at our trends check in November 2023,” said Mike Smollan, Chief Growth Officer, Smollan. “We’ve seen the rapid changes this year, from powerful tactical retail that has global brands amping up the flavour and integration experience for consumers. To local shifts in South Africa for example, with 61% of Gen Zs finding their feet and telling us via a recent Trade Intelligence report, that social media influencers are their best source of information when it comes to shopping. It’s about meeting consumers wherever, whenever, and however they prefer to shop, and being cognisant of and embracing the shift to empowered consumerism.”

Global retail examples always provide a relevant yardstick to illustrate these shifting dynamics on a larger scale. Take Walmart for example who despite relatively little store growth, has maintained its number one ranking with a robust online marketplace and a range of new financial resources for shoppers. Costco expanded its warehouse format this year to a range of countries while Ikea is reinventing, by opening smaller-format stores around the world.

So too, the ecommerce world continues to baffle the brain – with relative newbie Temu topping US$5 billion in sales in 2023, just one year after they launched. With Statista reporting that their app has been downloaded over 52 million times as of May this year.

A wild ride and evolving storyline as we watch the disruption of this sector.

Closer to home, Shoprite South Africa (SA) have adapted in 2024 to serve customers who want more promotions, combo deals and collective buying. They also noted that their customers are switching to private labels. Furthermore, they have expanded their premium stores and on-demand delivery services, as well as venturing into mobile services and financial offerings. On the ecommerce front Tech Safari, reporting on Amazon’s entry into SA in May this year, have suggested a possible pricing war benefitting consumers with faster deliveries, more products and better support. This space in the spotlight from now until year end and beyond, with competition on the up as Takealot, in response to Amazon’s entry, launched a free delivery service with a monthly subscription.

We’ve seen the rapid changes this year, from powerful tactical retail that has global brands amping up the flavour and integration experience for consumers

At A Glance | Four Trends

Accelerated ways to enable retailers to anticipate, experiment, adapt and satisfy consumers, even before they are aware of them, will be the golden thread. With Forbes identifying four evolving trends for the second half of the year:

Sustainability

Customers want organisations to step up and show proof of their eco stance however they have “green fatigue” and are quickly on the scent of businesses that are simply ‘greenwashing’.

AI

This is constantly evolving and retailers need to use AI to improve efficiencies and processes, and balance this with a human touch.

Personalised Communication

Consumers want messages tailored to them and their purchasing behaviour and not to be bombarded with general marketing messages. Shifting tactics from purely transactional to empathetic.

Social Commerce

CRM Essentials showed that 37% of consumers trust influencers more than brands. This year social commerce and creator economies present a perfect symbiotic relationship as brands are now more focused on telling stories on social platforms that conclude with a commerce moment.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Smollan.

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