Italy’s development plan for Africa is presented as a Marshall Plan for the continent. With the aims of reducing illegal migration through economic prosperity and transforming Italy into a key energy supply hub.
The summit held last Monday at the Italian Senate marked the first time that this plan was discussed at the level of heads of state or government. Italian ministers presented different aspects of the plan during the summit, demonstrating the commitment of all Italian public institutions to this project. Italian President Sergio Mattarella also organized a gala dinner to mark the importance of this initiative.
Although the Mattei plan is seen as a long-term approach to reducing migration, some experts stress that it will take at least a decade to achieve significant results. The secretary general of one of the main Italian non-profit development foundations in Africa, Giampaolo Silvestri, explained that to have an impact in these countries, especially in terms of education, it will take at least ten years to obtain concrete results.
The chairperson of the African Union Commission and the deputy head of the United Nations have stressed that changes are essential to realize Africa’s potential. With its young and vibrant population, critical mineral resources and vast renewable energy opportunities, Africa has the potential to become a clean energy powerhouse, a digital services hub and the next great global manufacturing hub.
The summit brought together around twenty African leaders, including William Ruto of Kenya, and marks the start of Italy’s presidency of the Group of Seven (G7). However, criticism of this plan has also been expressed. Some Italian opposition MPs, as well as environmental activists, view the plan as a neocolonial “empty box” aimed at re-exploiting Africa’s natural resources.
Alongside the Mattei Plan, the Italian government also entered into controversial agreements with some countries in order to ease the migration burden on Italy. A European Union-backed deal with Tunisia aims to reduce departures through economic development projects and legal migration opportunities. Likewise, a bilateral agreement with Albania provides for the creation of centers in Albania to process asylum applications from migrants coming by sea to Italy.
This Italian development plan for Africa represents an ambitious approach to combating illegal migration by promoting economic development and seeking sustainable solutions. However, its short-term impact remains uncertain and it will take time and perseverance to fully achieve the objectives set.