By Ambassador Dr Mohamed Higazy, Former Assistant Foreign Minister for African Affairs
Cairo did not become the capital of African struggle merely because of geography or historical circumstance, but because at a decisive moment it possessed vision, purpose, and determination , From hosting liberation movements, to building political and media networks, to contributing to the establishment of continental institutions, Cairo played a central role that made it the heart of Africa’s liberation movement in the mid-twentieth century , Today, this series cannot conclude without asking the essential question: what lessons were learned, and how can this role be revived in a different world?
The first lesson is that soft power is not rhetoric, but accumulated practice, Egypt built its African standing through tangible actions: opening its doors to freedom fighters, dedicating media to liberation causes, enduring international pressure, and taking political risks in defense of independence. These practices generated long-term trust, making Cairo a partner rather than a temporary intermediary.
The second lesson is that legitimacy is built by standing with principles during moments of trial, When Cairo supported Guinea during its difficult independence, Algeria during its fierce war, and South Africa during its prolonged struggle against apartheid, it consistently chose the harder path over the easier one. This commitment to principle rather than immediate interest gave Egypt’s African role enduring credibility.
The third lesson concerns the integration of instruments. Cairo did not rely solely on diplomacy, media, or personal ties between leaders. Instead, it integrated politics, media, organization, and international alliances into one coherent vision. This integration made Egypt’s influence deep and sustainable rather than temporary or reactive.
The fourth lesson is that Africa is not a foreign policy file, but an extension of Egyptian national security. This understanding, which guided Cairo during the liberation era, remains relevant today despite changing contexts. Contemporary challenges—from global competition over Africa to issues of water security, food security, debt, and maritime security—demonstrate that Africa remains central to Egypt’s stability and regional role.
How Can This Soft Power Be Revived Today?
Revival does not mean repeating the slogans of the past, but modernizing the approach. It requires investment in genuine developmental partnerships, capacity-building, knowledge transfer, stronger cultural and media engagement, and linking economic interests to a political vision grounded in respect for African sovereignty. It also requires a sincere discourse that sees Africa as a full partner rather than a sphere of influence or competition.
Recalling Cairo’s experience as the capital of African struggle is therefore not nostalgia, but the revival of a strategic mindset that once succeeded in transforming history into influence, principles into power, and solidarity into institutions. In a world witnessing renewed geopolitical rivalry over Africa, these lessons appear more urgent than ever.
When Cairo believed in Africa, it became Africa’s voice, refuge, and platform. Reclaiming this role remains possible whenever vision, institutional coherence, and belief in a shared Egyptian-African destiny are renewed.
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