If colonial boundaries have produced a large number of problems for Aftican countries, could the continenta people revert to the boundaries that existed before European colonialism? What other solutions might there be to the problems created by Aftica's borders? Plz help this is of my homework questions it's due tommorrow
One solution is to let people in each area vote on their independence and sovereignty.
These sites may have some ideas:
http://africanarguments.org/2013/02/12/africa%E2%80%99s-borders-porous-unprotected-and-blocking-trade-and-economic-development-by-keith-somerville/
http://www.mycontinent.co/AfricaBorders.php
To answer your question, let's break it down into two parts: the possibility of reverting to pre-colonial boundaries and alternative solutions to the problems created by Africa's borders.
1. Reverting to pre-colonial boundaries:
Reverting to pre-colonial boundaries is highly challenging due to several reasons:
a) Historical complexity: The pre-colonial boundaries across Africa were often fluid, based on cultural, tribal, and linguistic affiliations rather than fixed lines drawn on maps. Determining the exact pre-colonial borders would involve extensive research and negotiations among African nations.
b) Political and economic ramifications: Changing borders can have significant political and economic implications. It may lead to disputes over territory, resources, and power-sharing, potentially exacerbating existing conflicts and creating new ones.
c) Sovereignty and international recognition: Changing borders requires international recognition and the agreement of other nations. This can be a complex process since existing national boundaries have been recognized for decades.
Given these challenges, reverting to pre-colonial boundaries may not be a feasible solution in practice.
2. Alternative solutions to the problems created by Africa's borders:
While changing borders may be difficult, African countries can explore alternative solutions to address the problems caused by colonial boundaries:
a) Regional integration: Encouraging regional cooperation and integration can help overcome the artificial divisions imposed by colonial borders. Initiatives like the African Union (AU) and regional economic communities (e.g., ECOWAS, SADC) aim to promote dialogue, cooperation, and trade within and between African countries.
b) Diplomatic negotiations: African countries can engage in diplomatic negotiations to resolve territorial disputes and border conflicts, seeking peaceful resolutions through dialogue and mediation.
c) Economic diversification and development: Focusing on economic diversification and development can help alleviate some of the challenges posed by colonial borders. By investing in infrastructure, agriculture, education, and healthcare, African nations can improve livelihoods, reduce dependencies, and build stronger economies.
d) Strengthening governance and institutions: Enhancing governance, rule of law, and accountable institutions can help address some of the underlying issues related to borders. Transparent and inclusive decision-making processes can foster trust and cooperation among African nations.
It is crucial to note that these solutions require long-term commitment, political will, and collaboration among African countries, regional organizations, and the international community to bring about meaningful change and address the problems created by colonial boundaries.