Post-Brexit Britain and Africa: Economist

Africa is projected to be the fastest growing continent for both population and economic growth. Britain is considering ways to regain influence in Africa after Brexit. Prime Minister Boris Johnson hopes to strengthen business and social ties with African countries and looks forward to enthusiastic responses. Methods for revitalizing British influence in Africa, including diplomacy, aid, and trade, are subject to sharp debate despite common agreement that Britain’s network of diplomatic missions in Africa should resurge after decades of decline. The United Kingdom has fewer diplomatic missions and diplomats in Africa than France, China and other countries aspiring to do business. Its military presence is also diminishing. In terms of aid, Britain is the only member of the G7 group of rich countries to meet the 0.7 percent goal to provide aid for underdeveloped countries. However, the prime minister wants to shift the effort from aid to investment and trade by building a closer economic relationship with the continent. A mixed strategy might be better for the United Kingdom to balance its domestic political pressure and global ambition. – YaleGlobal