The world is changing rapidly. Wars, economic instability, climate change, political tensions, and competition among global powers continue to reshape international relations. In the middle of these global uncertainties, Africa finds itself at a defining moment where the continent must decide whether it will continue reacting to global decisions or begin actively shaping them.

This important conversation took centre stage during an initiative organised by the Global Affairs Club, where club members and International Studies students engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with Former Kenya’s Ambassador to Germany, Ambassador Tom Amolo, Ambassador Salim Mohamed, a distinguished Kenyan career diplomat, alongside our very own lecturers, Dr. Edgara and Dr. James, as well as Hawi Amollo, a third-year student pursuing International Studies. The discussion challenged students to rethink Africa’s place in global politics and examine how the continent can navigate an increasingly complex international system. The discussion challenged students to rethink Africa’s place in global politics and examine how the continent can strategically navigate an increasingly complex international system.

For decades, Africa has been viewed through the lens of dependency, conflict and foreign influence. Yet today, a new conversation is emerging across the continent. African diplomats, scholars and policymakers are increasingly asking difficult but necessary questions: What does Africa truly want? Who defines Africa’s interests? And how can the continent position itself as a powerful and respected voice in global affairs? During the discussion on Africa’s foreign policy in an era of global crisis, these questions formed the center of a powerful conversation about the continent’s future. Rather than focusing only on diplomacy between states, the discussion explored identity, leadership, economic cooperation, youth empowerment and Africa’s place in a rapidly changing world order.

One of the many strong messages that emerged was the importance of African unity and self-awareness. Prof. Edgar noted that; “African states must first identify their interests before determining who can help them achieve their goals.” His statement reflected a deeper truth about modern diplomacy. Countries that do not clearly define their priorities risk allowing others to define them instead.

This idea was echoed by Ambassador Salim, who emphasized the importance of African aspirations and goals being shaped by Africans themselves. In a world where powerful nations continue competing for influence on the continent, Africa’s foreign policy cannot simply revolve around pleasing external partners. It must be rooted in protecting African interests, African people and Africa’s future.

The conversation also challenged the nature of Africa’s relationships with global powers. References were made to France’s attempts to rebuild its engagement with African states, particularly after years of criticism surrounding neo-colonial influence and unequal partnerships. While partnerships remain important, the discussion questioned whether Africa is truly benefiting from some of these relationships or simply remaining trapped in systems designed by others. Ambassador Tom Amolo reflected on the significance of diplomatic platforms such as the Africa-France Summit, which brought together dozens of heads of state and delegations. However, beyond the meetings and speeches, the larger issue remains whether such engagements translate into meaningful progress for ordinary Africans. Diplomacy, after all, should not only exist in conference rooms, it should improve lives, create opportunities and strengthen the continent’s position globally.

Another major concern raised during the discussion was Africa’s struggle with internal divisions. From linguistic differences to political rivalries and weak regional coordination, the continent often finds itself fragmented at moments when unity is most needed. Yet speakers remained hopeful that a new generation of Africans is beginning to move beyond colonial-era divisions such as Anglophone and Francophone politics toward a more united African identity.

Economic integration emerged as one of the solutions to Africa’s challenges. Hawi argued that African countries must change how they relate with one another in order to benefit collectively. Trade barriers, border restrictions and competition among neighbouring states continue to slow the continent’s growth. True African transformation will require not only changing policies, but also changing mindsets. Cooperation must become a necessity rather than an option.

The role of young people was also central to the discussion. Africa is home to one of the youngest populations in the world, yet many young Africans continue to face unemployment, exclusion and lack of access to opportunities. Speakers noted that the African Union has not fully succeeded in harmonizing and empowering the continent’s youth. At the same time, many young people are becoming increasingly vocal, demanding accountability, inclusion and meaningful participation in governance and diplomacy.

Underlying the entire discussion was a call for courage. Courage for African leaders to speak boldly on global platforms. Courage to challenge unfair international systems. Courage to cooperate with one another while still protecting national interests. As ambassador Tom Amolo powerfully stated, African nations must be “brave enough to cooperate, but selfish enough to keep their interests in check.”

Perhaps the greatest challenge facing Africa today is not simply external pressure, but whether the continent can fully believe in its own potential. Foreign policy is not only about embassies, summits, or international agreements. It is about vision. It is about deciding what kind of Africa future generations will inherit. In an era of global crisis, Africa cannot afford to remain silent or divided. The continent possesses immense human capital, natural resources, cultural influence and strategic importance. What remains is the willingness to transform these strengths into collective power. Africa’s future in global politics will depend on whether its leaders choose dependency or dignity, fragmentation or unity, silence or influence. The world is changing, and Africa must no longer wait to be invited into global conversations. It must take its seat at the table confidently, strategically and on its own terms.

Article written by: Zena Ali