Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Timi Frank, has called on African leaders to chart a new diplomatic and economic direction by strengthening alliances with the United States rather than deepening engagements with France, which he accused of benefiting from Africa for decades without fostering meaningful development.
Frank made the remarks on Tuesday in response to the ongoing “Africa Forward: Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth Summit” in Nairobi, Kenya, attended by French President Emmanuel Macron and several African heads of state, including Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In the statement, the political activist argued that Africa must begin to reassess historical relationships that, according to him, have left many countries rich in resources but weak in infrastructure, economic independence, and democratic stability.
He said recent political developments in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have intensified calls across the continent for a break from external control and greater African self-determination.
“France has had decades to prove its commitment to Africa’s growth, yet many countries remain trapped in poverty and dependency. African leaders must avoid returning to arrangements that weaken the continent’s sovereignty,” Frank stated.
According to him, the growing resistance to French influence in parts of West Africa reflects a broader awakening among Africans demanding fairness, transparency, and control over their own resources.
Frank maintained that Africa should prioritise strategic partnerships with the United States in areas such as security, democratic reforms, economic investment, technology transfer, and credible elections.
“We believe Africa can secure better economic and democratic opportunities through stronger engagement with the United States. The focus should be on partnerships that genuinely empower African nations,” he said.
The activist, who also serves as Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East for the United Liberation Movement for West Papua, urged African governments to renegotiate global partnerships in ways that place citizens’ welfare and economic interests first.
He further criticised what he described as France’s long-standing political influence in some African nations, alleging that certain governments were sustained primarily to protect French interests.
Frank cited Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Benin Republic, and Cameroon as examples of countries where French influence remains deeply rooted in political and economic structures.
He, however, argued that nations distancing themselves from France are beginning to witness renewed confidence and stronger national independence.
“Countries like Burkina Faso are showing that Africa can pursue its future outside the shadow of French control,” he added.
Frank also endorsed the idea of a stronger Africa-U.S. diplomatic framework, insisting that future cooperation with Washington should be built on mutual respect, development, and shared democratic values.
He expressed optimism that the administration of Donald Trump could provide Africa with opportunities for more balanced and productive international engagement.
Timi Frank warns Africa against France, advocates stronger ties with America
