Introduction
The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), founded in 1961, emerged during the Cold War as a coalition of countries that sought to remain independent of both the U.S.-led Western bloc and the Soviet bloc. Africa played a vital role in NAM, as many newly independent African nations joined the movement to safeguard their sovereignty, promote development, and support decolonization struggles across the continent.
Role of Africa in NAM
1. Support for Decolonization
African countries used NAM as a platform to campaign against colonial rule, apartheid in South Africa, and racial discrimination. NAM provided international support for liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
2. Preservation of Independence
Newly independent African nations feared being drawn into Cold War rivalries. NAM gave them a collective voice to resist pressure from the superpowers and maintain political and economic independence.
3. Advocacy for Economic Justice
African members of NAM highlighted issues of economic inequality in the global system. They pushed for a New International Economic Order (NIEO) that would ensure fair trade, technology transfer, and development aid.
4. Solidarity and Unity
NAM encouraged unity among African nations, strengthening regional organizations like the Organization of African Unity (OAU). Through NAM, Africa spoke as part of a broader Global South coalition.
Examples
- Kwame Nkrumah (Ghana): Advocated for African unity within the NAM framework.
- Julius Nyerere (Tanzania): Promoted non-alignment while supporting liberation movements in Southern Africa.
- Algeria: Hosted the 1973 NAM summit, emphasizing anti-colonial solidarity.
Limitations
- Some African countries tilted towards either the U.S. or USSR despite being NAM members.
- Economic dependency limited true independence from superpower influence.
Conclusion
Africa’s role in the Non-Aligned Movement was crucial in advancing decolonization, maintaining independence, and advocating for global economic justice. While NAM faced challenges, it gave Africa a strong voice in international politics during the Cold War and reinforced solidarity among Global South nations.