Africa Must Come First in 21st Century Geoeconomics: A Call for Trade and Investment Prioritization

by Akindele Akinyemi, Principal of the GABA Marketplace Center

The Geoeconomic Case for Africa’s Centrality

In the 21st century, Africa must take center stage in global geoeconomic discussions. With its vast natural resources, burgeoning workforce, and strategic position in global trade routes, Africa holds the key to unlocking sustainable economic growth for itself and the world. Yet, despite its undeniable potential, Africa has often been sidelined in critical trade and investment conversations. If the world is serious about long-term economic stability, technological advancement, and equitable global development, Africa must come first.

Africa’s Untapped Economic Potential

Africa is home to 1.4 billion people, with over 60% under the age of 25, making it the world's youngest and fastest-growing workforce. The continent's consumer market is projected to exceed $2.5 trillion by 2030, presenting immense opportunities for businesses and investors. Yet, despite these promising figures, Africa receives less than 5% of global foreign direct investment (FDI). This discrepancy signals an urgent need for a paradigm shift in how Africa is viewed—not as an aid-dependent continent, but as a formidable economic powerhouse with limitless potential.

Resource Wealth and Global Supply Chains

The world’s transition to a green economy hinges on Africa. The continent is rich in critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements—resources essential for electric vehicles, semiconductors, and renewable energy. Without Africa, the global supply chain for these technologies remains fragile. Instead of being mere extractors of raw materials, African nations must be integrated as equal stakeholders in refining and manufacturing, ensuring that value addition happens within the continent. Trade policies must reflect this, encouraging investment in African processing plants, technological hubs, and research institutions.

Trade Agreements and Economic Partnerships

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has laid the foundation for U.S.-Africa trade relations, but it must be renewed and expanded with a more strategic approach. Bilateral trade agreements should prioritize African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ensuring they have access to the U.S. market while fostering reciprocal trade that benefits American businesses. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the largest free trade agreement in the world by member states, presents an unprecedented opportunity for investors seeking to tap into a unified African market. The U.S. and other global economic powers must fully support AfCFTA’s implementation and align their policies to enhance its success.

Infrastructure and Industrialization: The Pillars of Development

No economy can thrive without robust infrastructure. Africa faces an annual infrastructure financing gap of over $100 billion, which hinders its industrialization and economic expansion. U.S. and global investment in African infrastructure—ports, railways, roads, and energy—must be a top priority. The African Development Bank (AfDB) and similar institutions should receive stronger financial backing to accelerate large-scale infrastructure projects. Industrialization must also go beyond resource extraction; Africa must be a leader in manufacturing, automotive production, and technological innovation, requiring partnerships that focus on capacity building rather than resource dependency.

Digital and Technological Sovereignty

The future of global trade and investment is digital, and Africa cannot be left behind. Currently, less than 40% of Africans have internet access, creating a significant digital divide. Investment in broadband infrastructure, digital education, and tech startups must be a priority for the U.S. and other global investors. Furthermore, African nations must be protected from exploitative tech policies that allow foreign corporations to dominate without fair regulations. By fostering digital sovereignty, Africa can create a thriving digital economy that generates jobs, enhances financial inclusion, and fuels innovation across sectors like fintech, AI, and cybersecurity.

The Role of 21st Century Leadership in the U.S.

Policymakers and business leaders have a unique and critical role in ensuring Africa’s rightful place in global trade and investment strategies. By lobbying for stronger U.S.-Africa trade agreements, advocating for ethical lithium and critical minerals trade, and pushing for digital inclusion, they can champion policies that benefit both the African diaspora and the continent itself. Strengthening Africa’s economy is not just about Africa—it directly impacts global stability, job creation, and shared prosperity.

The Time for Action Is Now

Africa can no longer be an afterthought in geoeconomic discussions. The time for meaningful engagement is now. Prioritizing Africa in trade policies, investment frameworks, and economic development strategies will create a ripple effect of prosperity that benefits everyone. Whether through trade agreements, infrastructure development, technological investment, or mineral resource partnerships, Africa must come first—because a thriving Africa means a thriving world.