Italy has unveiled a bold initiative, the “Mattei Plan,” aiming to tackle both illegal migration and position itself as a key energy hub through fostering prosperity in Africa. This ambitious plan, likened to a modern Marshall Plan, seeks to address the root causes of migration by stimulating economic development in African nations.
The plan’s launch at the Italian Senate summit marked a historic event, bringing together over two dozen African leaders for the first time at this level. Italian President Mattarella’s personal involvement underscores the commitment to this project. While critics raise concerns about the long-term nature of the plan, the Italian government sees it as a comprehensive approach encompassing economic development, green energy investment, and job training. Experts suggest a ten-year horizon for significant impact, particularly in education and skills development.
The summit highlighted Africa’s vast potential, with leaders like Kenya’s William Ruto emphasising the need for “essential changes” to unlock it. The African Union Commission Chair and the UN Deputy Chief envisioned Africa becoming a clean energy powerhouse, a digital service centre, and a significant manufacturing hub.
Despite the optimism, the plan faces opposition within Italy. Green and opposition parties see the Mattei Plan as a “neocolonial” approach, potentially exploiting Africa’s resources without addressing underlying issues. They organised a counter-conference to voice their concerns.
Italy’s approach extends beyond the Mattei Plan, with bilateral deals like those with Tunisia and Albania seeking to manage migration through economic development, legal migration pathways, and asylum processing centres. As Italy assumes the G7 presidency, this summit sets the stage for a broader international conversation on African development and migration challenges.