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QUESTION 5: INDEPENDENT AFRICA: COMPARATIVE CASE STUDY – THE CONGO AND TANZANIA Critically discuss how Mobutu Sese Seko (the Congo) and Julius Nyerere (Tanzania) addressed the economic and political challenges that confronted their respective countries after attaining independence in the 1960s. - NSC History - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 5
QUESTION 5: INDEPENDENT AFRICA: COMPARATIVE CASE STUDY – THE CONGO AND TANZANIA Critically discuss how Mobutu Sese Seko (the Congo) and Julius Nyerere (Tanzania) ad... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:QUESTION 5: INDEPENDENT AFRICA: COMPARATIVE CASE STUDY – THE CONGO AND TANZANIA Critically discuss how Mobutu Sese Seko (the Congo) and Julius Nyerere (Tanzania) addressed the economic and political challenges that confronted their respective countries after attaining independence in the 1960s. - NSC History - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Introduction
Answer
To understand how Mobutu Sese Seko and Julius Nyerere navigated the challenges of independence, it is crucial to contextualize their countries' situations upon gaining independence in the 1960s. The Congo, rich in natural resources, faced political fragmentation, while Tanzania aimed for unity through socialism. Both leaders adopted strategies reflecting their nations' unique challenges.
Step 2
Elements of economic 'development' - The Congo
Answer
Mobutu's regime relied heavily on agriculture and mineral extraction, which created vulnerabilities in the economy. The policies implemented, such as Zaireanisation, intended to replace foreign ownership with local control, suffered from mismanagement and corruption. This approach exacerbated economic disparities, leading to a decline in infrastructure and an increased dependency on foreign aid.
Step 3
Elements of economic 'development' - Tanzania
Answer
Conversely, Nyerere focused on agricultural development combined with building a credible manufacturing sector. The Arusha Declaration aimed at reducing exploitation and income inequality, promoting collective agriculture through villagisation. However, challenges persisted as productivity declined under these policies, and Tanzania became increasingly reliant on foreign aid by the 1970s.
Step 4
Elements of political 'stability' - The Congo
Answer
Mobutu initially came to power through democratic elections but later established a strong centralized government that became increasingly authoritarian. His regime was marked by nepotism, and political stability came at the expense of democratic freedoms, with a kleptocracy emerging where public officials prioritized personal gain.
Step 5
Elements of political 'stability' - Tanzania
Answer
In contrast, Nyerere secured a peaceful transition of power. His establishment of the United Republic of Tanzania and focus on African socialism aimed to unify and foster racial harmony. Though he also adopted a one-party system, his policies included public involvement and leadership from communal councils, helping to retain some forms of political participation.
Step 6
Conclusion
Answer
In summary, Mobutu Sese Seko's economic strategies led to mismanagement and corruption, creating persistent challenges for the Congo. Nyerere's policies aimed at fostering equality and collective development but faced similar economic struggles. Both leaders' approaches to governance reflected their respective historical and political contexts, revealing different paths in addressing the legacies of colonialism in Africa.