Botswana President Duma Boko emphasized the importance of Western involvement in Africa during an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday, highlighting the growing influence of other global powers on the continent.
“The West has every reason to play its part in Africa because if it doesn’t, others will step in,” President Boko stated. “China, for instance, is already positioning itself to exert significant influence across Africa.”
His remarks come amid increasing global competition for influence in Africa, with nations like China heavily investing in infrastructure, trade, and development projects. President Boko’s comments underscore the need for Western countries to strengthen their engagement with Africa to foster mutual development and address shared challenges.
Boko, who was inaugurated as Botswana’s president in November 2024, has consistently advocated for balanced international partnerships that prioritize Africa’s growth and autonomy while addressing global power dynamics.