By Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-02-15 08:55:18
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made headlines in late January when she announced a package of investment proposals for multiple African countries. The goal of the proposed investments is to foster economic development and cooperation between Italy and African nations. Meloni claimed that the total investment could reach approximately $5.95 billion.
During a summit with African leaders in Rome, Meloni emphasized the importance of building a partnership based on mutual respect and collaboration. She stated, “We believe it is possible to envision and write a new chapter in the history of our relationship, a cooperation among equals, far from any predatory imposition or charitable stance towards Africa.”
Italy is in a unique position this year as it presides over the G7 group of advanced economies, giving the country added diplomatic clout.
However, not all African officials were impressed with the Italian initiative. Many expressed skepticism at Meloni’s claim of a “new chapter” and criticized her for failing to involve them in the planning of her proposal. Moussa Faki Mahamat, the chairperson of the African Union Commission, bluntly voiced his disappointment, stating, “we would have liked to have been consulted.”
Faki also emphasized the importance of aligning actions with words, suggesting that promises are often not kept. This sentiment reflects the need for genuine collaboration and partnership between Italy and African nations.
The investment package unveiled by Meloni is part of the “Mattei Plan,” named after Enrico Mattei, the founder of Italian oil and gas company Eni. The plan aims to position Italy as a bridge between Europe and Africa, with a focus on energy imports from Africa that could be re-exported to other parts of Europe.
In light of declining Russian gas imports due to the war in Ukraine, Europe has increasingly turned to Africa to fill the gap. Italy, in particular, has been active in working to strengthen energy ties with African countries. Meloni has made multiple visits to North African gas exporters, and Eni has committed to significant investments in gas projects across the continent.
Additionally, Italy is set to import electricity from solar projects in North Africa, with several major projects underway to construct subsea transmission lines between Italy and North Africa. Meloni also highlighted a focus on developing the biofuels supply chain in Kenya and emphasized projects in education, healthcare, agriculture, and water.
However, critics have raised concerns about the level of investment promised by Meloni. The $5.95 billion figure she cited includes loans, loan guarantees, and grants, so the actual level of investment is contingent on the involvement of the private sector and the terms of Italian loans to African governments. This lack of clarity has led to skepticism and criticism from some African NGOs, who have voiced concerns about Italy’s approach being perceived as neo-colonial and heavily focused on fossil fuel investment.
In conclusion, while the proposed investment package has sparked both optimism and skepticism, it underscores the significance of partnership, collaboration, and transparent communication between Italy and African nations for the mutual benefit of both regions.
