21st Century Politics: Beyond Partisanship to Geopolitical Strategy and Global Economic Growth
by Akindele Akinyemi, Principal of the GABA Marketplace Center
The politics of the 21st century is no longer defined by rigid party affiliations. Instead, it is increasingly driven by interests shaped by geopolitical strategies and economic imperatives. For states like Michigan and its urban cities, the focus must shift toward creating larger trade relationships with Sub-Saharan Africa to unlock untapped economic potential, generate jobs, and build sustainable communities. This requires political leadership that prioritizes global engagement over partisan divides.
One vital area of focus is the reauthorization of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Since its inception, AGOA has played a pivotal role in fostering trade between the U.S. and African nations, giving African producers duty-free access to American markets. Black American politicians, given their unique historical and cultural ties to the African continent, are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in advocating for AGOA’s renewal. By securing its extension, they can ensure that African businesses continue to access U.S. markets, benefiting both the African diaspora and American cities like Detroit, where trade opportunities can revitalize local economies.
Moreover, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) should play a greater role in supporting global initiatives in urban centers across Michigan. With strategic partnerships, Afreximbank could provide financing and technical assistance to develop trade hubs, improve infrastructure, and enhance logistics systems in Michigan cities. These investments would facilitate the movement of goods such as critical minerals, cassava, sesame seeds, and other resources from Africa to the U.S., building stronger trade pipelines and creating new economic opportunities.
To achieve these goals, politicians and policymakers must champion policies that align global interests with local needs. They should advocate for state-level incentives to attract African businesses, promote Michigan trade missions to African countries, and foster partnerships between U.S. and African SMEs. Additionally, collaborating with institutions like Afreximbank can bring much-needed investment into urban areas, funding projects in manufacturing, housing, and education.
By embracing a geopolitical strategy that prioritizes economic integration and trade expansion with Sub-Saharan Africa, Michigan can emerge as a global trade leader while addressing local challenges. This is not about partisan politics but about creating a vision for sustainable economic growth that connects communities across continents. It is a blueprint for a new era of global engagement where shared prosperity drives policy and progress.
