Meaning: This quote by Omar Bongo, a former Gabonese statesman, reflects the complex dynamics of the Cold War era, during which the Soviet Union and the United States engaged in proxy wars in various regions around the world. The quote highlights the indirect nature of the conflict between the two superpowers, as they sought to advance their interests by supporting and arming local factions and governments in Africa and other regions, often leading to internal conflicts and civil wars.

During the Cold War, the ideological and geopolitical rivalry between the Soviet Union and the United States extended beyond their own territories to other parts of the world, including Africa. Both superpowers sought to expand their influence and gain strategic advantages in the region, which was rich in natural resources and held significant geopolitical importance.

The support, arming, and training of African factions by the Soviet Union and the United States were part of a broader strategy of exerting influence and countering the influence of the opposing superpower. This often involved backing local leaders and groups that aligned with their respective ideologies and interests, leading to the proliferation of armed conflicts and civil wars across the continent.

The consequences of this proxy warfare were profound and enduring, as the involvement of external powers exacerbated existing tensions and grievances within African societies. The supply of arms and military assistance fuelled violence and instability, contributing to protracted conflicts and humanitarian crises in various African countries.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the notion that the superpowers were not only engaged in indirect confrontations with each other through local proxies, but also perpetuated a cycle of conflict and instability within African nations. By supporting and arming different factions, the Soviet Union and the United States became entangled in the internal struggles of African countries, often prolonging and intensifying the suffering of local populations.

It is important to recognize that the impacts of the Cold War proxy conflicts in Africa were far-reaching and continue to reverberate to this day. The legacy of external intervention, arms proliferation, and the destabilization of governments has had profound implications for the political, social, and economic development of the continent.

In conclusion, Omar Bongo's quote encapsulates the complex and destructive dynamics of the Cold War era, particularly in the context of African conflicts. It serves as a reminder of the indirect but deeply impactful role played by the Soviet Union and the United States in perpetuating and exacerbating internal strife within African nations. The quote prompts us to reflect on the enduring consequences of superpower rivalry and the imperative of addressing the legacies of conflict and instability in Africa.