Emmanuel Macron calling himself a Pan-Africanist just don’t match what I’m seeing. To me it feel more like Pan-Handlerist - same influence game, just dressed up better and sounding nicer.
Look at places like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger -they pushing harder now to stand on their own and control their own resources, and you can see they getting stronger in that direction.
So when I hear “we love the people,” I don’t really take it like that. From where I’m standing, it look more like interest in what those countries produce and how much money they bring back to France.
So yeah… Pan-Africanist in words, but Pan-Handlerist in reality. PanHandlerist
#burkinatiktok🇧🇫🇧🇫🇧🇫❤️ #AfricaRisin#malitiktok🇲🇱 #freeafrica #nigertiktok
From personal observations and following recent developments, it’s clear that the relationship between France and several African countries is evolving rapidly. Countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are not just passive players anymore—they are actively striving to reclaim sovereignty over their natural resources and economic policies. This push for independence reflects a broader continental trend where African nations seek to reduce foreign influence and promote self-sufficiency. What strikes me is the disconnect between political rhetoric and tangible actions. While Emmanuel Macron and others may present themselves as Pan-Africanists championing unity and cooperation, the underlying dynamics suggest a more transactional engagement. This has led to the concept of 'Pan-Handlerist,' where interest appears to be more about economic gain and resource extraction rather than genuine solidarity. Locals in these countries express mixed feelings. On one hand, there is appreciation for partnerships that bring investment and development; on the other, there is skepticism and resistance against perceived neocolonial practices. These sentiments are crucial in understanding the power dynamics at play. Moreover, the rise of social media hashtags like #AfricaRisin and #freeafrica underlines a growing voice demanding autonomy and honest representation. This digital activism is reshaping narratives, making it harder for old patterns of influence to go unchallenged. In my view, true Pan-Africanism must go beyond declarations. It requires respect for African agency, equitable partnerships, and support for the continent’s efforts to control its destiny. France’s continued focus on the economic benefits it derives undermines this ideal and fuels calls for change. Having witnessed these developments, I believe the future will depend on how transparent and fair international relationships become. African countries are demonstrating increasing strength and a desire to chart their own paths, signaling a shift that global powers cannot ignore.
