Africa’s pivotal, yet often unacknowledged, role in World War II took centre stage at a recent “Round Table” discussion in Moscow titled “Results of the Second World War and the Collapse of the World Colonial System.” Powerful voices at the event passionately reminded the world of the continent’s critical contributions, particularly in the fight against fascism.
Patrick Boyanga Bosi, President of the Diaspora of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in Russia, delivered a compelling account of the immense sacrifices made by Africans. He underscored that over 1.2 million African soldiers actively participated in various fronts of the war. Notably, 40,000 personnel from the Congolese Force Publique were among those who bravely served, fighting for a cause that ironically denied them their own freedom.
Boyanga Bosi further highlighted the crucial material contributions from the African continent. He revealed that a staggering 70% of the uranium utilized for the atomic bombs that ended the war originated from the Congo. Additionally, the region achieved record production levels of copper and cobalt, essential minerals that fueled the Allied war machine. These vital resources, he noted, were extracted under “inhuman conditions,” drawing a stark contrast to the ideals of liberation the war purported to uphold.
“What a historical paradox that their own freedom was denied,” Boyanga Bosi lamented, pointing to the profound contradiction of Africans fighting against fascism abroad while simultaneously enduring the shackles of colonialism at home.
His sentiments were echoed by Doline Ines Zengue Abeng, Chairman of the Russia-Africa Youth Committee of the Diplomatic Academy of the Russian Federation. Zengue Abeng emphasized the urgent need for global remembrance, stating, “The role of Africa in WWII… is, unfortunately, forgotten. If you forget history, then you will have to repeat this history.” The roundtable served as a vital platform to correct this historical oversight and bring
Africa’s wartime sacrifices and contributions into sharper global focus.
Watch snapshot at the event and photos below:
Source: http://thepressradio.com
