Italian Plan: Ambition and Controversies What lies behind the Italian plan? The Italian initiative, led by Prime Minister Georgia Melloni, aims to assist African countries in thriving in exchange for measures against clandestine immigration, with an initial funding of €5.5 billion. However, criticisms quickly arose, particularly regarding the limited scale of the projects and the lack of prior consultation with concerned parties in Africa. Some experts emphasize that for success, the plan should be better structured and include broader consultation with African governments and local communities.
Kenyan President’s Support The Kenyan President William Ruto demonstrates invaluable support for the Italian initiative. Despite these criticisms, Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed his support for the Italian plan, named after the late founder of the energy giant ENI, Mattei, highlighting its significance in strengthening Africa-Europe ties. He hailed this initiative as a first step towards a closer partnership, especially amidst Italy’s presidency of the G7, adding that he was convinced Melloni would honor her commitment to promoting African interests during her presidency. Ruto stated that Kenya is ready to work closely with Italy to ensure the plan meets the real needs of African populations.
Read More: Discovery of Coltan Deposits in Kenya: What Implications for the Country and Its Population?
Persistent Doubts on Financing However, questions remain about the nature and transparency of the promised funding. The head of the African Union Commission, Moussa Fakir Mahamat, voiced severe criticisms during the summit’s opening, emphasizing the need to translate words into actions in implementing the Africa-Italy partnership. He stressed that empty promises would not suffice and that Africa is ready to discuss implementation details. He also underscored the importance of centering this partnership on African priorities and called for a new partnership model based on friendship and cooperation rather than security barriers perceived as obstacles to hostility.
Additionally, some Italian politicians have been accused of repeating previous promises rather than presenting real innovations. Davide Faraone, president of the Senate of the centrist Italia Viva party, pointed out that most of the promised funds were already allocated to other programs.
Out of the €5.5 billion promised by Melloni, around €3 billion came from an international climate fund established in 2021, while other funds would take the form of public guarantees rather than direct funding for on-the-ground projects.
This situation fuels concerns about the plan’s actual ability to meet Africa’s development needs. It is crucial for the financing process to be transparent and for funds to be used effectively to ensure tangible results.
Read More: Romania: Romanian ambassador to Kenya recalled after racist comment
Towards a Balanced Partnership Despite these challenges, President Ruto emphasizes the importance of a balanced relationship between Europe and Africa, highlighting Africa’s considerable economic potential as the world’s largest renewable energy resource holder. He also underscores the need for sincere and transparent cooperation to achieve common development and prosperity goals. For the partnership to succeed, it must be based on mutual respect, trust, and consideration of African priorities.
In conclusion, Italy’s announcement of its cooperation initiative with Africa evokes both optimism and doubt. President Ruto’s support reflects a willingness to strengthen ties between the two continents, but lingering doubts about funding and effective implementation underscore the challenges ahead. The path to a truly beneficial and sustainable partnership between Europe and Africa will require sincere commitment and transparent cooperation from all parties involved. It is essential for stakeholders in this project to work together to overcome obstacles and realize the potential of this cooperation.
VIDEO
