Investigative Journalist Warns African Business Leaders To Fund Local Institutions or Risk External Control
Investigative journalist and filmmaker David Hundeyin has sounded the alarm on the pervasive influence of external actors on Africa’s development. In a scathing critique, Hundeyin argued that the continent’s business leaders must come together to fund local think tanks, policy research institutes, civil society organizations, and media outlets to counter the stranglehold of foreign interests.
According to Hundeyin, the operating environment in Africa is hostile to local businesses due to the dominance of external actors in shaping policy and public opinion.
He contended that these external forces, which include think tanks, policy research institutes, civil society organizations, and media outlets, are deliberately stifling Africa’s growth to serve their own interests.
Hundeyin’s warning came as Africa’s population is projected to reach 2 billion by 2050, presenting a vast market opportunity for local businesses.
However, he noted that this potential will remain untapped unless African business leaders invest in creating a supportive ecosystem.
The Nigerian journalist and author pointed out that external think tanks are advocating for policies that hinder Africa’s development, such as defunding higher education and pushing for an “energy transition” that ignores the continent’s minimal contribution to global emissions.
He also criticized foreign-funded civil society organizations for prioritizing issues like LGBTQ rights over more pressing concerns.
Hundeyin’s call to action is clearly stated that African business leaders must pool their resources to create locally funded and directed think tanks, policy research institutes, civil society organizations, and media outlets.
This investment, though unlikely to yield direct profits, is crucial for creating a favorable business environment and unlocking the continent’s vast potential.
The alternative, Hundeyin warned, is to allow external actors to continue shaping Africa’s destiny, with disastrous consequences for local businesses and the continent as a whole.
As he starkly put it, “If you don’t come together and do this, rest assured that white men are already doing it for you.”
