POS 102 – Introduction to African Politics
Name: Momoh Abubakar Atima
Matric Number: 25/209ECN/113
Department: Economics
Course: POS 102 – Introduction to African Politics
Assignment Question
"It would amount to self-delusion to claim that African States today are free from the
corrosive effects of European values, systems and institutions." Argue your case.
Answer
The statement means that although African countries have gained political
independence from European colonial powers, they are still greatly influenced by
European values, political systems, legal institutions, economic structures, and
cultural practices. Therefore, it would be unrealistic to claim that African states are
completely free from the effects of European colonial rule.
One of the strongest examples of European influence is the political system. Many
African countries still operate parliamentary or presidential systems introduced by
Britain, France, Portugal, and other colonial powers. Their constitutions, electoral
processes, and systems of government were largely inherited from Europe. Although
these institutions promote democracy and the rule of law, they sometimes fail to
reflect African traditions and local realities, leading to political instability, weak
institutions, and electoral conflicts.
Another area of influence is the legal system. Most African countries continue to use
English Common Law, French Civil Law, or Portuguese legal systems. While these
laws provide order and justice, they often conflict with traditional African customs and
methods of resolving disputes. As a result, indigenous legal systems have become
less influential.
European influence is also evident in Africa's economy. During colonial rule, African
economies were designed to produce raw materials for European industries. After
independence, many African countries continued to depend on exporting raw
materials such as crude oil, cocoa, coffee, and minerals while importing manufactured
goods from developed countries. This has created economic dependence and slowed
industrial development.
Furthermore, European values continue to shape African education, language, and
religion. English, French, and Portuguese remain the official languages in many
African countries and are widely used in government, education, business, and the
courts. The educational system in many African countries is also based on European
models, often giving more attention to Western history and ideas than to African
history, culture, and indigenous knowledge. Christianity, introduced by European
missionaries, also remains one of the major religions across the continent.
Despite these continuing influences, African countries have made significant efforts to
promote their own identity and reduce dependence on European systems. Regional
organizations such as the African Union (AU) encourage African unity and
cooperation. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to strengthen
trade among African countries and reduce dependence on foreign markets. Many
governments also promote indigenous languages, African culture, and constitutional
reforms that better reflect local realities.
In conclusion, African states are politically independent, but European values,
systems, and institutions continue to influence politics, the economy, education, law,
and culture. Therefore, it would indeed be self-delusion to claim that African states are
completely free from these effects. The best approach is not to reject every European
institution but to adapt useful ones to African realities while strengthening indigenous
values and institutions.
References (APA 7th Edition)
Ake, C. (1981). A Political Economy of Africa. Longman.
Rodney, W. (1972). How Europe Underdeveloped Africa. Bogle-L'Ouverture Publications.
Young, C. (1994). The African Colonial State in Comparative Perspective. Yale University
Press.