In an era marked by shifting geopolitical priorities, strengthened South-South cooperation has emerged as a key factor in navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving global order. According to Nkolo Foe, a former professor at the University of Yaoundé I and past vice president of the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa, the increasing assertiveness of African nations in shaping their own economic and political destinies underscores the importance of fostering strategic alliances within the Global South.
The global landscape has witnessed significant power realignments, particularly in response to policies emanating from the United States. Over recent years, shifts in US foreign policy have sought to reassert dominance over international order through measures that, as Foe highlights, have direct implications for developing nations. The resurgence of the Monroe Doctrine—historically associated with US geopolitical control over Latin America—has been cited as an instrument aimed at disrupting South-South unity, with specific efforts to counterbalance alliances such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa).
Amid these developments, scholars and policymakers have revisited the proposals of Samir Amin, a renowned French-Egyptian political economist, who advocated for a renewed Afro-Asian partnership. His vision for a “Bandung II” movement—echoing the historic 1955 Bandung Conference, which solidified Non-Aligned Movement principles—underscores the necessity of enhancing cooperation among emerging economies to counter external economic and political pressures. The recent expulsion of French military bases from parts of Africa serves as a significant indicator of the continent’s pursuit of full sovereignty and a realignment of global partnerships.
African nations continue to make strides towards economic integration and regional self-reliance. Central to this progress is the growing collaboration between Africa and China. The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the BRICS summits held in 2024 have underscored the expanding scope of Africa’s engagements in infrastructure development, telecommunications, and green energy initiatives. These partnerships are viewed as instrumental in addressing Africa’s pressing developmental needs, facilitating long-term sustainability, and fostering economic independence.
One of the critical themes of contemporary South-South cooperation is the focus on green development, which Foe describes as a “civilisational issue.” China has actively promoted initiatives in renewable energy, electric mobility, and solar power, setting an example for environmentally sustainable industrialisation. With Africa’s vast potential for green energy expansion, investments in renewable infrastructure align with the broader aspirations of economic transformation without replicating the environmentally harmful models of past industrial revolutions.
China’s approach to what is often termed “Chinese modernisation” has been widely analysed for its relevance to African development strategies. The model, which blends economic progress with state-led policy coordination, has been credited with lifting millions out of poverty while maintaining a strong emphasis on technological advancement. For African policymakers, adapting similar frameworks requires a nuanced understanding of strategic choices in governance, investment, and human capital development. Foe emphasises that Africa’s leaders must actively engage in shaping their own modernisation pathways, ensuring that collaborations with global partners, particularly China, align with the continent’s broader vision of integration and prosperity.
At the core of Africa’s aspirations is the goal of achieving a self-sustaining and peaceful future, guided by policies determined by its own citizens. As the geopolitical order undergoes transformations, the role of South-South cooperation in driving economic resilience, diplomatic independence, and sustainable development is increasingly evident. The international community must recognise Africa not merely as a recipient of global economic trends but as an active agent in shaping the future of global governance.
