The Scramble for East Africa: A Race for Resources and Dominance

This article explores the “Scramble for Africa,” focusing on East Africa. It examines the motivations behind European colonization, including economic, political, and social factors. It analyzes the impact of key events like the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty and the role of various actors in shaping the colonial landscape of the region.

Introduction

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed a period of intense European competition for territory in Africa, known as the “Scramble for Africa.”¹ East Africa, with its diverse societies, rich resources, and strategic location, became a focal point for this imperial rivalry. This period saw European powers like Britain, Germany, and Belgium vying for control over the region, driven by a complex interplay of economic, political, and social motivations. This article will delve into the key factors that fueled the Scramble for East Africa, analyze the impact of significant events like the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty, and examine the methods and consequences of European colonization in the region.

The Scramble for East Africa was a period of intense European imperialist competition and colonization that took place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. European powers were motivated by a complex interplay of economic, political, humanitarian, strategic, and social factors. To discuss these motivations, it’s important to provide a background on colonialism in East Africa.

Background on Colonialism in East Africa:

Prior to the Scramble for Africa, East Africa was characterized by a patchwork of diverse societies, including powerful empires like the Sultanate of Zanzibar, the Kingdom of Buganda, and various Swahili city-states along the coast. The region was attractive to Europeans for several reasons:

1.         Economic Motivations:

•           Resources: East Africa was rich in natural resources, including rubber, timber, minerals, and agricultural products such as coffee, tea, and rubber. These resources were highly sought after by European industries, which sought to secure a steady supply of raw materials.

•           Trade Routes: The region offered access to important trade routes, both overland and via the Indian Ocean, facilitating trade with Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Europeans wanted to control these routes for economic gain.

•           Market Expansion: European powers aimed to create new markets for their manufactured goods and sought to exploit the demand for European products among the local populations.

2.         Political Motivations:

•           Nationalism: European powers competed with one another to assert their dominance and prestige on the world stage. The colonization of East Africa was seen as a way to increase a nation’s global influence.

•           Rivalries: Colonial powers sought to outdo their competitors, often through territorial expansion and the acquisition of colonies. This competitive spirit drove the scramble for East Africa.

3.         Humanitarian Motivations:

•           Civilizing Mission: Some Europeans believed in the “civilizing mission” and thought they were bringing enlightenment, Christianity, and improved living conditions to what they saw as less-developed societies. This missionary zeal played a role in justifying colonization.

4.         Strategic Motivations:

•           Military Bases: Establishing colonies in East Africa allowed European powers to set up military bases and naval stations, which were strategically important for safeguarding their interests and trade routes in the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.

•           Geopolitical Control: Controlling East Africa provided a buffer zone and influence over the entrance to the Suez Canal, a vital link between Europe and its Asian colonies. It also offered the potential to counter the growing influence of rival powers, such as the Ottoman Empire and later, Germany.

5.         Social Motivations:

•           Prestige and Social Status: Colonization was often seen as a way for individuals and governments to enhance their prestige and social status. Some colonial administrators and settlers were motivated by the desire for personal wealth and influence.

•           Overpopulation: Some European countries were experiencing overpopulation and sought to alleviate this by encouraging emigration to the colonies. East Africa, with its relatively empty spaces, provided an outlet for surplus population.

The Scramble for East Africa resulted in the colonization of countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and parts of modern-day Rwanda and Burundi by European powers such as Britain, Germany, and Belgium. It had profound and lasting effects on the region, reshaping its societies, economies, and political landscapes, which are still felt to this day.

EXTERNAL CAUSES OF THE SCRAMBLE FOR EAST AFRICA

The causes of the Scramble for East Africa that originated from outside the region can be attributed to a range of external factors driven by European powers and other global influences. Here are some key external causes:

1.         Imperial Rivalry Among European Powers: The intense competition and rivalry among European colonial powers played a significant role in the Scramble for East Africa. These rivalries were driven by the desire to expand empires and secure dominance in the global arena. The most notable colonial powers involved in East Africa were Britain, Germany, and Belgium, and their competition for territory in the region fueled the scramble.

2.         Geopolitical and Strategic Considerations: European powers recognized the strategic importance of East Africa. The region served as a gateway to the Indian Ocean, which was a vital trade route connecting Europe with Asia. Control of this region was seen as essential for safeguarding maritime routes, access to the Suez Canal, and the protection of overseas colonies.

3.         Economic Interests: European industrialization increased the demand for raw materials and new markets. East Africa was rich in valuable resources such as rubber, timber, minerals, and agricultural products. European powers sought to exploit these resources to support their growing industries and generate economic profits.

4.         Technological Advancements: The 19th century saw advancements in transportation and communication technologies, such as steamships and the telegraph, which made it easier for European powers to establish and manage colonies in distant regions. This technological progress facilitated their expansion into East Africa.

5.         Nationalism and Prestige: European nations were motivated by a sense of nationalism and a desire to assert their dominance on the world stage. Acquiring overseas colonies, including those in East Africa, was seen as a demonstration of a nation’s strength and prestige.

6.         Missionary and Humanitarian Impulses: Missionary and humanitarian organizations often influenced and supported colonial endeavors. They aimed to spread Christianity and European values, which played a role in justifying the colonization of East Africa as a civilizing mission.

7.         Changing Global Alliances: The shifting alliances and alliances formed during this period contributed to the scramble. For example, the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885, where European powers partitioned Africa, formalized colonial boundaries and provided legal legitimacy to their territorial claims.

8.         Pressure from Economic Interests: European trading companies, like the British East India Company, played a role in pressuring governments to establish colonies in East Africa. They sought to secure trading posts and exclusive rights to conduct commerce in the region.

9.         Scientific Racism and Social Darwinism: Pseudo-scientific theories like social Darwinism and the belief in the superiority of the European “race” were used to justify colonization. These ideologies were used to argue that Europeans had a duty to bring civilization to “lesser” societies in East Africa.

These external causes collectively fueled the Scramble for East Africa, resulting in the colonization and reshaping of the region by European powers. The impacts of this colonization continue to influence the social, political, and economic dynamics of East Africa to this day.

The impact of the Heligoland Treaty of 1890 on the colonization of East Africa

The Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty of 1890 had a significant impact on the colonization of East Africa. To understand this impact, let’s first provide some background on the treaty and the context in which it was negotiated:

Background:

1.         Colonial Competition in East Africa: In the late 19th century, European colonial powers were engaged in intense competition for territorial control in Africa. East Africa, which included areas that would later become modern-day Kenya, Tanzania, and parts of Rwanda and Burundi, was a hotspot for this imperial rivalry.

2.         British and German Colonial Ambitions: Both the British Empire and the German Empire had colonial ambitions in East Africa. The British sought to consolidate their control in territories like Kenya, while the Germans were interested in expanding their influence in the region, primarily in what is now Tanzania.

3.         The Scramble for Africa: The “Scramble for Africa” was in full swing, with European powers attempting to secure territories and influence in Africa through various treaties, agreements, and territorial negotiations. The Berlin Conference of 1884-1885 had established the framework for this process.

The Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty (1890): The Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty was negotiated between the British and German Empires and was signed on July 1, 1890. The treaty consisted of two main provisions:

1.         Territorial Exchange: The treaty involved a territorial exchange between Britain and Germany. Britain ceded the island of Heligoland in the North Sea to Germany, while Germany recognized British control over certain territories in East Africa, including the island of Zanzibar and a strip of territory on the mainland. This strip of territory connected Uganda to the coast, giving the British a continuous land route from the Indian Ocean to Uganda.

2.         Acknowledgment of Spheres of Influence: The treaty also acknowledged the spheres of influence of the two powers in East Africa. Germany’s sphere of influence was primarily focused on the mainland, particularly in areas that would later become Tanzania. The British were given control over Zanzibar and a corridor of territory running from the coast into the interior.

Impact on the Colonization of East Africa:

1.         British Control of Kenya: The Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty solidified British control over the East African territories, including Kenya. This led to further British efforts to establish and consolidate their authority in Kenya, which was to become a British East African Protectorate in 1895.

2.         German Expansion in Tanzania: The treaty enabled the German Empire to expand its presence and authority in what is now Tanzania, where it established German East Africa. The Germans proceeded to develop infrastructure, administer their colonial territories, and exploit local resources.

3.         Stability and Reduced Rivalry: By defining the spheres of influence in East Africa, the treaty brought a level of stability to the region by reducing direct competition between the British and German Empires. This allowed both powers to focus on building and governing their respective colonial territories.

4.         Legacy: The colonial borders established as a result of the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty continue to influence the modern borders of East African countries, such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. These borders, drawn during the colonial era, have had enduring consequences for the political and social dynamics of the region.

In summary, the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty of 1890 played a pivotal role in shaping the colonial landscape of East Africa by clarifying British and German territorial claims and contributing to the establishment of colonial entities in the region.

The methods of colonization of East Africa

The colonization of East Africa by European powers involved various methods and strategies that were typical of the colonial period. These methods were used to establish control, exploit resources, and exert authority over the indigenous populations. Here are some of the key methods of colonization in East Africa:

1.         Military Conquest:

•           European powers used their superior military technology and organization to conquer and subdue the indigenous populations. This often-involved armed conflicts, such as the Anglo-Zanzibar War of 1896, where British forces defeated the Sultanate of Zanzibar.

2.         Treaties and Diplomacy:

•           Some colonial powers, like the British, initially relied on diplomacy and treaties to secure control over East African territories. They would negotiate agreements with local leaders, which were often one-sided and heavily favored the colonial powers.

3.         Establishment of Protectorates and Colonies:

•           European colonial powers established protectorates and colonies in East Africa. A protectorate meant that the colonial power controlled the foreign policy and security of the territory, while a colony involved direct control over all aspects of governance.

4.         Administrative Structures:

•           European colonial administrations were established with European officials overseeing the territories. These administrators would implement colonial policies, collect taxes, and enforce European laws.

5.         Economic Exploitation:

•           The primary economic objective of colonization was resource extraction. European colonial powers exploited the region’s natural resources, such as rubber, minerals, and agricultural products like coffee and tea. They also established plantations and forced labor systems to maximize production.

6.         Land Ownership and Redistribution:

•           Land ownership systems were often altered to favor European settlers and businesses. Large tracts of land were taken from indigenous communities and redistributed to European settlers, leading to land dispossession and changes in land tenure systems.

7.         Forced Labor:

•           Forced labor, sometimes in the form of corvée labor or labor taxation, was commonly used to support colonial economic activities. African labor was crucial for building infrastructure, working on plantations, and constructing railways.

8.         Cultural and Religious Influence:

•           European colonial powers often sought to impose their own cultural and religious values on the local populations. Missionary activities were used to spread Christianity, and European languages were promoted at the expense of indigenous languages.

9.         Infrastructure Development:

•           Infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and ports, was developed to facilitate the extraction and transportation of resources. These projects also served to enhance the colonial administration’s control over the territory.

10.       Racial Segregation and Discrimination:

•           Racial segregation and discrimination were prevalent in the colonial era. Europeans were granted preferential treatment and access to education and employment, while indigenous populations were often subject to discriminatory laws and policies.

11.       Divide and Rule:

•           Colonial powers sometimes exploited ethnic and tribal divisions to maintain control. They would favor one group over another or create divisions to weaken potential resistance to colonial rule.

12.       Education and Indoctrination:

•           European-style education systems were introduced to inculcate the values and beliefs of the colonial powers among the local population. This served to reinforce colonial authority and facilitate the training of a local elite that was more amenable to colonial rule.

These methods of colonization had profound and lasting effects on the social, political, and economic dynamics of East Africa. The legacy of colonization is still visible in the region’s borders, governance structures, and socio-cultural dynamics.

The groups and people involved in the colonization of East Africa

The colonization of East Africa involved a wide array of groups and individuals, including colonial powers, indigenous populations, European settlers, missionaries, and other key actors. Here are some of the primary groups and people involved in the colonization of East Africa:

1.         Colonial Powers:

•           Britain: British colonial interests were prominent in East Africa, especially in Kenya, Uganda, and what is now Tanzania. British East Africa, as it was known, was a British protectorate that included Kenya and Uganda.

•           Germany: Germany established German East Africa (Deutsch-Ostafrika), which covered parts of present-day Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi.

•           Belgium: Belgium’s presence in East Africa was limited but included a territorial interest in the eastern part of the Congo Free State.

•           Portugal: Portugal had colonies in East Africa, including Mozambique and parts of modern-day Tanzania, during the colonial period.

2.         Indigenous Populations:

•           Various ethnic groups and communities inhabited East Africa. These groups had diverse languages, cultures, and traditions. The indigenous populations were profoundly affected by colonial rule, with some experiencing land dispossession, forced labor, and social disruption.

3.         European Settlers:

•           European settlers, often of British and German descent, established themselves in East Africa. They were encouraged by their respective colonial powers to take up land and participate in agriculture, particularly in Kenya. European settlers played a role in the economic development and social structure of the colonies.

4.         Missionaries:

•           Christian missionaries, such as the Church Missionary Society and the Catholic Church, were active in East Africa. They were involved in proselytizing, setting up mission schools, and providing various social services. Missionaries also played a role in language and education development.

5.         Administrators and Officials:

•           European colonial officials and administrators, including governors, district commissioners, and police officers, were responsible for implementing colonial policies and managing the day-to-day affairs of the colonies. They were often part of the colonial bureaucracy.

6.         Local Elites:

•           Some members of the indigenous population collaborated with the colonial powers and became part of the local elite. They were often appointed as chiefs or administrators and helped the colonial administration maintain control.

7.         Anti-Colonial Resistance Leaders:

•           Various leaders and groups emerged to resist colonial rule. Notable figures include Dedan Kimathi, leader of the Maumau Rebellion in Kenya, and Abushiri bin Salim, who led a rebellion against German rule in Tanzania.

8.         Laborers and Workforces:

•           Indigenous laborers were essential to the colonial economies. They were employed on plantations, in construction, and for other labor-intensive activities. Many laborers were subjected to harsh conditions and exploitation.

9.         European Trading Companies:

•           Companies like the Imperial British East Africa Company and the German East Africa Company played a role in advancing colonial interests by establishing trading posts and economic ventures in the region.

10.       Political Leaders and Activists:

•           In the post-colonial period, leaders such as Jomo Kenyatta in Kenya and Julius Nyerere in Tanzania played critical roles in the transition to independence and the formation of new nation-states.

11.       International Organizations and Influences:

•           International organizations, such as the League of Nations and later the United Nations, influenced the decolonization process in East Africa by promoting self-determination and independence for colonial territories.

12.       Foreign Advisors and Experts:

•           Experts from various fields, including agriculture, education, and healthcare, were often brought in by colonial powers to provide technical knowledge and advice for the development of the colonies.

These are some of the key groups and individuals involved in the colonization of East Africa. The complex interplay among these actors shaped the history, development, and eventual decolonization of the region.

The reasons why the Asians came to east Africa

Asians came to East Africa for a variety of reasons over the centuries. Their migration and settlement in the region have been influenced by economic, social, political, and historical factors. Here are some of the primary reasons why Asians came to East Africa:

1.         Trade and Commerce:

•           One of the earliest and most significant reasons for Asian migration to East Africa was trade. Asians, particularly traders and merchants from the Indian subcontinent, have been involved in trade with East Africa for centuries. The Indian Ocean trade route, linking the coasts of East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Indian subcontinent, facilitated economic ties.

2.         Colonial Labor Needs:

•           During the colonial period, European colonial powers (such as the British) brought in labor from the Indian subcontinent to meet the demands of their expanding empires. Indian laborers, known as “coolies,” were employed in various capacities, including on plantations, in construction, and as clerks and professionals.

3.         Indentured Labor:

•           Indentured laborers, primarily from the Indian subcontinent, were brought to East Africa under contracts known as “indentures.” They worked on plantations and construction projects, often under harsh conditions. After their contracts ended, some chose to settle in East Africa.

4.         Business and Entrepreneurship:

•           Many Asians, particularly from the Indian subcontinent, migrated to East Africa for business opportunities. They established small and large businesses, including retail stores, manufacturing enterprises, and trading firms. Asian business communities have played a significant role in the economic development of the region.

5.         Professional and Educational Opportunities:

•           Asians, including doctors, lawyers, engineers, and educators, came to East Africa for professional opportunities. They contributed to the development of various sectors and institutions, including the education and healthcare systems.

6.         Migration During and After Independence:

•           The post-independence period in East Africa saw continued migration of Asians. Some chose to stay and contribute to the newly independent nations, while others moved to East Africa in response to economic and political changes in their home countries.

7.         Political and Social Stability:

•           East Africa was perceived as a region with greater political and social stability than some parts of Asia. Political factors, such as the end of British colonial rule, contributed to the attraction of East Africa as a destination for settlement.

8.         Cultural and Family Connections:

•           Family and cultural ties played a role in attracting Asians to East Africa. Many migrants followed family members who had already settled in the region or had connections through their communities.

9.         Religious and Cultural Reasons:

•           Some Asians migrated to East Africa for religious or cultural reasons. For example, individuals of the Ismaili and Bohra Muslim communities migrated to East Africa and established vibrant communities.

10.       Escape from Persecution:

•           At various times in history, some Asians came to East Africa to escape religious, political, or social persecution in their home countries.

The Asian diaspora in East Africa is diverse, encompassing individuals of Indian, Pakistani, and other South Asian backgrounds. Over the decades, they have made significant contributions to the economic, social, and cultural fabric of the region. These migrations have enriched East Africa’s cultural diversity and economic landscape.

The reasons why the British preferred to use the labor of the Indian coolies rather than that of the black Africans.

During the colonial period, British colonial powers, particularly in East and South Africa, often preferred to use Indian indentured labor (referred to as “coolies”) over the labor of black Africans for several reasons. It’s important to provide some background on the historical context to understand these preferences:

Background:

1.         Indentured Labor System: Indentured labor was a system where individuals, often from the Indian subcontinent, signed contracts (indentures) to work for a specified period of time in exchange for passage, wages, and other benefits. The British and other colonial powers used this system to meet the labor demands of their expanding empires.

2.         British Colonial Interests: The British Empire had colonies in various parts of Africa, including East Africa (Kenya, Uganda) and South Africa. These colonies had diverse labor needs, from agriculture to construction, and the British sought to fulfill these requirements efficiently.

The following are the reasons why the Indian coolie labor was preferred 

1.         Experience and Skills: Indian laborers, particularly those with experience in agriculture, construction, and other skilled trades, were perceived as having valuable skills that made them well-suited for the demands of colonial labor projects. Many of them had agricultural knowledge from their homeland, which was transferable to colonial plantations.

2.         Perceived Work Ethic and Discipline: There was a perception among British colonial officials that Indian laborers were more disciplined and diligent than African laborers. This perception, while based on stereotypes and biases, influenced the British preference for Indian labor.

3.         Cultural Differences: Colonial powers often played on cultural differences between Indian laborers and local African communities. They believed that Indian laborers, who were often from different regions and backgrounds, would be less likely to form alliances with African populations, making it easier to control and manage the labor force.

4.         Social Hierarchies and Racial Biases: The British and other colonial powers propagated a racial hierarchy that placed Europeans at the top, followed by Asians, and then Africans at the bottom. These prejudices influenced labor recruitment and management practices, with Asians often perceived as being “higher” in this hierarchy.

5.         Historical Precedent: The British had already employed indentured Indian laborers in other parts of their empire, such as the Caribbean and Fiji, with what they considered relative success. This provided a precedent and familiarity with the system.

6.         Economic Considerations: Some British officials believed that Indian indentured labor was more cost-effective due to perceived productivity and work ethic, as well as a willingness to accept lower wages.

7.         Language and Communication: Language was another factor in the preference for Indian labor. Many Indians had some knowledge of English or were able to communicate with colonial administrators more effectively than some African laborers.

It’s important to note that these preferences were based on racial biases, stereotypes, and flawed assumptions. The differential treatment of laborers based on their ethnicity and race was a clear manifestation of the discriminatory and exploitative nature of colonial labor systems.

While Indian indentured laborers made significant contributions to the development of colonial economies in Africa, they also faced harsh working conditions, low wages, and limited rights. This preference for Indian labor over African labor contributed to social and economic divisions and tensions within the colonies.

Conclusion

The Scramble for East Africa had a profound and enduring impact on the region.² It reshaped political boundaries, disrupted traditional societies, and introduced new economic and social systems. While colonization brought some technological and infrastructural developments, it also led to exploitation, social disruption, and the suppression of indigenous cultures. The legacy of this period continues to shape the political, social, and economic landscape of East Africa today, with ongoing efforts to address the enduring consequences of colonialism.

Frequently Asked Questions  on the scramble and partition of east Africa

• What were the main motivations for European powers to colonize East Africa?
  • Economic factors, including the desire for resources, new markets, and control over trade routes, were key motivators.³ Political factors, such as competition among European powers and the pursuit of national prestige, also played a significant role.⁴
• What was the significance of the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty?
  • The treaty defined spheres of influence between Britain and Germany in East Africa, solidifying British control in Kenya and enabling German expansion in Tanzania.
• What were the main methods of colonization used by European powers in East Africa?
  • Methods included military conquest, diplomacy, the establishment of protectorates and colonies, economic exploitation, and the imposition of European cultural and political values.
• Who were the main actors involved in the colonization of East Africa?
  • Key actors included European colonial powers, indigenous populations, European settlers, missionaries, colonial administrators, and anti-colonial resistance movements.
• What were the long-term consequences of the Scramble for East Africa?
  • The Scramble for Africa had long-lasting consequences, including the creation of artificial borders, the disruption of traditional societies, the exploitation of resources, and the introduction of new social and economic systems that continue to shape the region today.⁵