Africa: The Evolution of a Juggernaut(By Emeka Eke,Global Focus Media)

The journey of a thousand miles often begins with a first step! This truism may very well resonate with Africa, a continent which many; especially from the west have often described as dark, the white man’s grave etc.!

By the way, some still have their traditional fixated mindset about the region intact despite her transition from a supposed underdeveloped state – by their assessment – many centuries ago, to one of the world’s leading focal points today!

During his lifetime, Sir Isaac Newton, one of the greatest scientists to ever grace planet earth, stated what is famously known as ‘Newton’s first law of motion, which so often was referred to as the ‘Law of Inertia.’ This law states that, “An object at rest or in motion maintains its state of rest or motion with the same speed and in the same direction except it is influenced by an external force!”

In certain ways, Africa’s evolution has been significantly impacted by Newton’s Law of Inertia what with more and more Africans – who in this case may be likened to an external force – applying their knowledge, skill sets and know-how to solve some of the continent’s – which one may view as an object at rest – most pressing and challenging problems, further transforming the image of a once upon a time stereotyped region from being backward to being at the centre of the industrial revolution!

With enormous potential much to the chagrin and envy of the West, Africa has absolutely no need for aid in whatever guise but welcomes win – win partnerships to further unlock her untapped potential fully! Little wonder the recent announcement by Brazil’s state – run integrated oil and gas company, Petrobras; PBR, to expand its footprint to Africa by acquiring offshore oil blocks in four countries including: Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Angola and Namibia was met with rambunctious applause, stern interest and optimism in certain quarters.

As it is often said that the beauty of a thing is most appreciated at first sight, Petrobras’ planned expansion into Africa is both uniquely and strategically timed, because it overrides an established system and disrupts the status quo.

While traditional oil majors including Shell, ExxonMobil, Chevron and TotalEnergies have held sway in the region and done a great job exploring, producing and drilling on the continent, Petrobras comes into the fray when some are either exiting or are considering exiting the continent, signalling their intention to be a part of Africa’s foreseeable future!