By John Ikani
Denmark announced on Monday the closure of its embassies in Mali and Burkina Faso as part of a revamped Africa strategy, citing military takeovers that have “significantly hindered progress in the Sahel.” In contrast, the Nordic nation revealed plans to establish new embassies in Senegal, Tunisia, and Rwanda.
Additionally, Denmark stated it would reinforce its diplomatic presence in Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana.
A dedicated representative for the African Great Lakes and Sahel region will be assigned following the closures in Bamako and Ouagadougou.
Since military regimes took control in 2020 and 2022, respectively, Mali and Burkina Faso have sought assistance from Russia and its Wagner mercenary force.
Recently, Mali’s ties with European nations have worsened.
Earlier this month, Mali’s military leadership expelled the Swedish ambassador after a Swedish official condemned Mali’s backing of Russia.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen explained that his nation’s realignment of priorities in Africa coincides with Denmark and the European Union’s goal to be Africa’s “favored partner” as the continent decides whether to “align more with the East or the West.”
“We have a vested interest in African nations turning towards us in Europe as they map out their future,” he remarked.
“We must showcase an appealing alternative to the growing Chinese and Russian influence on the continent,” he emphasized.
The updated Danish strategy will prioritize expanding trade and water initiatives.
In the years ahead, Denmark intends to allocate one billion kroner (€134 million) in development aid for new bilateral water projects in Africa, with 425 million kroner designated for 2025 alone.
