Summary of Africa Today 25 2 2025 Amb Gamal Bayoumi
In the latest edition of "Africa Today," the program focuses on significant discussions between Egypt and Zambia regarding the promotion of integration and cooperation within African nations. This dialogue took place during Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema's visit to Egypt, where both countries emphasized the importance of collaboration to foster stability on the continent. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi expressed readiness to share development expertise and support Zambia in enhancing its workforce capabilities. The discussions led to the signing of several cooperation agreements and highlighted investment opportunities, particularly in the Lito Corridor project.
Ambassador Gamal Bayoumi, a former assistant foreign minister, provided insights into the historical ties between Egypt and Africa, noting the importance of reforming continental organizations to better address current challenges. He emphasized the need for increased investment in Africa, arguing that a significant portion of imports is not produced locally, which necessitates a shift towards self-sufficiency. The ambassador also discussed the critical role of the private sector in strengthening trade relations, advocating for a market-oriented economy to encourage entrepreneurship.
The program also reported on the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where Doctors Without Borders halted operations at Zam Zam Camp due to escalating violence. The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces has resulted in significant casualties and displacement.
Additionally, the International Criminal Court's prosecutor, Karim Khan, visited the Democratic Republic of the Congo amidst rising tensions due to the M23 armed group, which has recently captured key cities in the eastern region. Khan underscored the need for compliance with international humanitarian law and expressed concern over the worsening situation.
Presenters/Contributors:
- Ambassador Gamal Bayoumi
- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi
- Yahya Kala (Doctors Without Borders head of mission in Sudan)
- Karim Khan (International Criminal Court prosecutor)
Notable Quotes
— 02:56 — « We have a long history facing the occupation of Africa, whether from the British or the French or else. »
— 04:14 — « Africa is really the poorest continent in the whole world, but still the money flow from Africa to other countries is much more than it receives. »
— 05:40 — « If you want to increase the trade in Africa, you have to invest in Africa because 70% of what we import for Africa we do not produce. »
— 12:17 — « Let me be frank to you and to our audience that still we have a sort of resistance even in Egypt to the private sector. »
— 12:55 — « They do not wait for the government to make them work; they have their own very small shops and business jobs. »
Category
News and Commentary