African countries are increasingly seeking to join the BRICS group, driven by a desire for a platform for dialogue on an equal footing. According to Kinfu Tafesse Zenebe, President of the Union of African Diasporas in Russia, this interest is linked to BRICS' development and its members' willingness to build partnerships based on equality. Zenebe made these remarks on the TV BRICS programme "BRICS Dialogue".
BRICS offers several areas of cooperation, including economic, cultural, and banking sectors. African countries are drawn to the group's equal dialogue among partners such as Russia, China, and India. Zenebe noted that Africa currently needs to strengthen food security and improve access to clean water, areas where Russia can offer assistance. He emphasized that Africa's main tasks today are to feed its people and provide them with clean water.
Ethiopia's decision to move closer to BRICS is a deliberate one, driven by the need to support domestic reforms. The country has experienced significant population growth, with its population swelling from 47 million to over 135 million in the past 30 years. This growth presents challenges in providing food and jobs for its citizens. Ethiopia has extensive experience working on international platforms, hosting the African Union and a UN branch.
Ethiopia joined BRICS on January 1, 2024, along with Egypt, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), during Russia's BRICS chairmanship. According to Ethiopia's Ambassador to Russia, Uriat Cham Ugala, BRICS membership has enabled the country to reach a new level of economic development. The country has also recorded a trade turnover of $11 billion for the first time.
Zenebe cited Zimbabwe as a country he would like to see join BRICS. He emphasized that BRICS is constantly developing, with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed speaking at the Kazan Forum in 2024 about fair international organizations. Many African countries seek an alternative, fair international group, and BRICS offers this opportunity.
The interest of African countries in BRICS is also driven by the group's willingness to build partnerships based on equality. Zenebe noted that Russia can assist Africa in areas such as food security and access to clean water. The experience of countries like Russia, which has expertise in growing crops, is particularly valuable for Africa.
In conclusion, African countries are seeking to join BRICS for equal dialogue and development opportunities. Ethiopia's experience with BRICS membership highlights the benefits of joining the group, and other countries, such as Zimbabwe, may follow suit. The growth of BRICS and its development areas offer a platform for African countries to address their challenges and achieve their goals.
Key points
- African countries seek to join BRICS for equal dialogue and development opportunities
- Ethiopia joined BRICS on January 1, 2024, and has recorded a trade turnover of $11 billion
- Russia can assist Africa in areas such as food security and access to clean water
