Global Context
everal opportunities and threats exist for African globalization. International trade is an essential aspect of the globalization process. The new World Trade Organization impacts regulations and negotiations on Africa's agriculture, services, manufactured and industrial goods, indigenous knowledge, and labor standards. One notable concern is the increasing marginalization of African economies from the perceived benefits of globalization and problems of poverty, socioeconomic inequality, and shear neglect. Although prospects for global integration appears bleak, there are success stories from countries such as Uganda and Mozambique that demonstrate the region's ability to marshal its human and physical resources to transcend social and economic impediments.
Ideally, what is needed is a more humane globalization strategy. This would allow countries to simultaneously take advantage of benefits of globalization, preserve cultural heritage, and develop the capacity to promote democratic reforms to consolidate their political and economic sovereignty.
Below, view the interview with Kidane Mengisteab, Professor of African and African American Studies and Political Science at Penn State. Dr. Mengisteab specializes in African development and the impact of globalization on the economic, political, and democratic development in Africa.
So, are you overwhelmed? We have just scratched the tip of the iceberg on Africa's environments. Stay tuned as we continue our journey with Africa's geologic history.
