Sudanese Ambassador Criticizes Foreign Influence in Africa
Sudan's Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohamed Abdelaal, has issued a stark warning about the socio-economic challenges facing Africa, attributing many of them to foreign interventions and influence. In a recent interview, he emphasized that every borrowed solution from abroad comes with a hidden agenda, urging African leaders to look inward for sustainable answers to the continent's diverse problems.
Deep Historical Ties Between Nigeria and Sudan
Abdelaal described the relationship between Nigeria and Sudan as exceptionally close, rooted in shared histories and traditions. He noted that when posted to Nigeria, he felt at home due to the similarities in features and cultural practices. Before the outbreak of war in Sudan, approximately 14,000 Nigerians were studying in Sudanese universities, and Nigerian communities are widespread across Sudan, particularly in border areas.
The ambassador highlighted that Hausa and Fulani languages are widely spoken in Central and Southern Sudan, including in the capital city, streets, and universities. This linguistic overlap makes it difficult to distinguish between Sudanese and Nigerian indigenous populations, as Nigerians also speak local Sudanese tongues. Politically, the relationship dates back centuries, predating Sudan's independence in 1956 and Nigeria's in 1960.
Call for Stronger Economic and Trade Relations
Despite the deep historical and cultural bonds, Abdelaal stressed the need to translate these ties into robust economic and trade partnerships. He acknowledged that while some trade exists, with Sudanese products available in markets in Kano State and other northern Nigerian regions, more proactive efforts are required to consolidate relations in all domains.
The implementation of the African Union protocol on Freedom of Movement of Persons and Goods is crucial, he noted, but Africa faces many constraints hindering business flow. Sudan is not a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) but belongs to the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
Obstacles to Robust Trade Relations
The primary challenge to enhancing trade and economic relations is the instability in Sudan caused by the recent war. Abdelaal explained that the conflict, which began about three years ago, involved militias taking control of many states. However, the government and people have successfully defeated these forces, liberating the capital and neighboring states, and electing a civil government.
With the security situation improving, Sudan is now rebuilding its foreign relations. Beyond insecurity, trade barriers can be addressed through increased investment opportunities. Sudan is rich in resources such as sugar, gold, and oil, though not in the same quantities as Nigeria. Nigerian businessmen and the private sector are encouraged to engage in trade with Sudan.
Reconciliation and Peace Efforts in Sudan
Abdelaal detailed the devastating impact of the war, with militias committing crimes across Sudan, including looting infrastructure, killing thousands, and reports of rape. The government has focused on security, pushing militias out of the capital to the Darfur region. Sudan is ready for reconciliation and has endorsed the African Union roadmap for peace, which includes disarming militias before negotiations.
A civil government was established in May last year, with Professor Kamil Al-Tayeb Idris, former Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), serving as Prime Minister. This government is actively working towards peace and is open to negotiations at any time.
Foreign Influence and African Solutions
Abdelaal strongly criticized foreign influence in African conflicts, stating that it escalated the Sudanese crisis. He pointed out that support from abroad, including the supply of modern weapons to militias, prolonged the war and increased atrocities. He urged Africa to return to the principles of the Organisation of African Unity, now the African Union, which advocated for African solutions to African problems.
"Africa should think deeply and seriously towards finding local solutions to its problems and not from abroad because any intervention from abroad means their agenda will be there," he emphasized. He believes that Africans are capable and qualified to solve their own issues, and foreign agendas only hinder peace and stability on the continent.
