Postcolonial Borders and Ethnic Conflicts in Africa: A Reassessment of the Colonial Legacy

The arbitrary borders drawn by colonial powers in Africa have had lasting repercussions on ethnic relations and political stability across the continent. This article reassesses the colonial legacy of postcolonial borders and their role in shaping ethnic conflicts in Africa. It explores how European-imposed boundaries disrupted pre-colonial socio-political structures, fostering inter-ethnic tensions and contributing to contemporary disputes over land, identity, and political representation. Through a historical and geopolitical analysis, this study examines key case studies, including the conflicts in Sudan, the Great Lakes region, and the Sahel, to illustrate the enduring impact of colonial border policies. Additionally, it evaluates the effectiveness of regional integration initiatives and governance frameworks in mitigating border-related conflicts. The findings suggest that while colonial borders remain a source of division, alternative governance models and cross-border cooperation can offer pathways to conflict resolution and peacebuilding in Africa.