Rwanda’s journey from colonial influence to asserting sovereignty serves as a cautionary tale for African nations regarding the negative impact of Western alliances. The nation’s history reveals how prolonged foreign control led to chaos and violence, while its current path of self-reliance advocates for unity among African nations to combat Western exploitation.
Rwanda’s assertion of sovereignty is a response to the detrimental historical implications of alignment with Western powers. The phrase “in bed with” suggests a one-sided alliance that favors one party, often leading to adverse outcomes for the other. The article explores Rwanda’s journey from colonial influence by Germany, Belgium, and France to its current stance of independence and self-determination, serving as a cautionary tale for African nations.
Historically, Rwanda’s engagements with Western powers began during the reign of King Kigeli IV Rwabugiri, who died before German influence could solidify. His successor, King Yuhi V Musinga, allowed limited German presence but ultimately resisted their control, leading to tensions with the colonizers. Belgian forces later ousted the Germans in 1916, sparking further resistance from Musinga, who was deposed in 1931.
The lineage of Rwandan kings from Rwabugiri to Kigeli V Ndahindurwa, all resisted colonial dominance, and despite their unyielding spirit, Rwanda spiraled into violence after years of Western-backed rule. During 1959, Rwandans traded their quest for true independence for a Western-backed regime characterized by ethnic exclusion and political manipulation. Elizabeth King highlights that Rwanda, once a peaceful land, devolved into chaos by 1964 with thousands dead and many displaced as a result of colonization.
Since 1994, Rwanda has embraced unity and self-reliance, consciously rejecting external control and the lingering influence of its former colonizers. This led to a significant strain in relations with Germany, Belgium, and France, reflecting their struggle to accept Rwanda’s new independent status. Rwanda’s evolution parallels that of Tanzania under Julius Nyerere, who also resisted neocolonialism, pursued self-sufficiency, and achieved significant national unity.
Today, as globalization evolves, it is imperative for nations to strive for genuine partnerships rather than dependency. African nations must promote solidarity, enabling a collective stance against Western exploitation and acknowledging their colonial past. The movement toward a united Africa can assert pressure on Western nations regarding reparations and true equality, fostering a dignified future. Consequently, it is time for African nations, including Rwanda, to decisively reject Western influence and reclaim their sovereignty.
Rwanda’s historical narrative illustrates the perils of reliance on Western power, showcasing the detrimental outcomes of colonial influence. The country’s current stance of self-determination and unity serves as a model for other African nations to foster genuine partnerships over dependency. Emphasizing unity and resilience, Rwanda advocates for the reclamation of dignity and future prosperity, urging the continent to reject continued Western interventions.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
