Globalisation Paradoxes in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Social Reality in Eclipse

Emeka Obioha

doi:10.25159/2413-3086/7530

Authors

Emeka E Obioha Walter Sisulu University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2413-3086/7530

Keywords:

global dichotomy, globalisation, inequality, sub-Sahara, Africa

Abstract

This paper challenges the dominant notion that globalisation has a neutral “win-win” outlook and the generalisation of “equal gains” and “equal pains” for all countries. The paper provides the dominant narrative on dimensions of globalisation but also dwells more on the global dichotomy approach in understanding this phenomenon. Drawing on analysis of secondary information, this paper examines the paradoxical problem of contested framing of the phenomenon and how it affects sub-Saharan African society. It distinguishes between the Western-oriented and sub-Saharan African perspectives in framing globalisation, which is a departure from the three other dominant narratives. Through a synthesis of available information and the author’s lived experience, this paper confirms that globalisation is not a neutral “win-win” phenomenon but a being that brings disproportionate gain and pain to the detriment of sub-Saharan Africa in numerous social spheres, as demonstrated in this paper. Based on the realities, mitigating approaches are proffered for African future development and social progress.

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Author Biography

Emeka E Obioha, Walter Sisulu University

Emeka E Obioha is a Full Professor in the Department of Social Sciences and Research Chair, Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law at Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, Eastern Cape. He has published extensively in critical issues of African development, social order & problems and transformation in society.

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