The future of Africa, according to railway expert Claude Leblanc, may depend on the development of its rail networks. Leblanc, who travels globally to meet transport professionals, has written a new book titled "La Géopolitique du train" (The Geopolitics of the Train), published by Presses universitaires de France. In it, he argues that while China has been a major investor in African infrastructure, other nations like India and Turkey are also increasing their involvement in building railways across the continent.
Railways, Leblanc explains, are more than just a means of transport—they can play a crucial role in uniting a country. By connecting different regions, railways can foster economic development, improve access to resources, and strengthen national unity. This is especially important in Africa, where many countries are still developing their infrastructure and looking for ways to promote internal cohesion and growth.
Leblanc's work highlights how different countries are approaching railway development in Africa. While China has been heavily involved in building high-profile projects such as the Mombasa-Nairobi railway in Kenya, India and Turkey are also expanding their influence. For example, India has been working on railway projects in countries like Ethiopia and Sudan, while Turkey has partnered with several African nations to build modern rail systems.
The book provides a broader perspective on how infrastructure, particularly railways, can shape the political and economic future of a region. By examining the roles of various countries in African railway development, Leblanc offers insights into the evolving dynamics of international relations and development in the continent.
International Rail Investments Shape Africa's Future, According to New Book
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Original sources:
- 🇫🇷RFI



