Let's imagine what would happen if all African countries integrated under a single name like 'United Africa.' This is assuming, of course, that the notoriously unstable African politics have miraculously stabilized.
1. Formation of a massive single market: Just like the EU, currencies and laws would be unified, creating one giant market. Tariffs would vanish, leading to an explosion in intra-continental trade. The GDP would easily break into the global top 10.
2. Resource Sovereignty: Countries like those in Europe, China, and Russia that currently exploit African resources would lose their grip, allowing Africa to take back control. They could nationalize resources and gain massive leverage in trade negotiations.
3. #1 in Population: The African continent has a population of just over 1.5 billion, which is more than China or India. Most importantly, while China's population is shrinking rapidly, Africa's growth rate and young demographic could position it as the next 'World's Factory.'
4. The sheer size of the continent: Even though parts of Africa are barren, the landmass is so huge that there is plenty of habitable and fertile land. Some argue that with proper population distribution and the cultivation of unused land, Africa's chronic infrastructure issues could be solved. Essentially, the continent is large enough to house 1.5 billion people comfortably in the 'good' areas alone.
But then again, this is probably just a pipe dream, much like the idea of Korea, China, and Japan forming an East Asian Union to take over the world.
"While the theoretical potential of a United Africa is massive, netizens are skeptical, pointing out that deep-seated tribal hatreds and 'trash' colonial borders make it about as likely as Korea, China, and Japan becoming best friends."
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