February 7, 2025

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Robert Bourgi Unveils Secrets of Françafrique in New English Edition of Memoir

By Ange de la Victoire DUSABEMUNGU

Robert Bourgi, the self-proclaimed “Mr. Africa,” shared insights about his recently released English memoir, “They Know I Know Everything: My Life in Françafrique”.

The book, which reveals the intricate and often shadowy relationships between France and its former African colonies, aims to illuminate a history that has remained largely obscured.

As the conversation commenced during the Online Press Briefing organized by APO Group, a journalist from Rwanda posed a trio of compelling questions to Bourgi. The first addressed his motivation for writing the memoir and the message he hopes readers will take away.

Bourgi reflected, “At 79, it was time to pen my memoirs. I want today’s and future generations to understand what Françafrique truly means. The political relationships between the colonial power, France, and its former colonies have often been marked by an incestuous dynamic. This is the hidden, dark side of Françafrique.”

He elaborated on his desire for transparency, stating, “I have revealed everything I have done, heard, and witnessed, so that when I leave this earth, my children and grandchildren will know everything that transpired between 1960 and 2024.” Bourgi’s journey, he noted, was nothing short of remarkable.

 Born to parents who arrived in Senegal in the early 20th century, his early experiences laid the foundation for his political career. “I learned what politics meant alongside my father, which provided me the extraordinary opportunity to be close to influential French leaders like Jacques Chirac and Nicolas Sarkozy,” he shared.

 When discussing the current challenges facing France’s relationship with its former African colonies, Bourgi pointed out the complexities of these ties in today’s geopolitical landscape. He emphasized the need for mutual respect and understanding as both parties navigate their intertwined histories.

The journalist then asked Bourgi to recount a memorable experience from his time in Françafrique. He vividly recalled his close association with former Gabonese President Omar Bongo Ondimba, stating, “I witnessed an extraordinary man who was greater than the small country he governed. Bongo not only advised French heads of state but played a pivotal role in shaping French government appointments.”

 Bourgi shared an intriguing anecdote revealing how Bongo influenced Chirac’s cabinet selections, saying, “During a meeting, Bongo provided Jacques Chirac with a list of names for potential ministers. Out of the 10 or 12 names suggested, Chirac selected eight. It was astounding to see an African head of state having such sway in French politics.”

 Reflecting on the significance of these encounters, Bourgi concluded, “To imagine an African leader advising French leaders on their government formation is something I cannot fathom happening within the Commonwealth. It’s a testament to the unique and complex dynamics that define Françafrique.”

As Bourgi’s memoir hits the shelves, readers can expect an unfiltered look into a world that has shaped the political landscape of both France and Africa. His candid revelations promise to challenge perceptions and provoke thought on the enduring legacy of colonialism and its ramifications in contemporary relations.

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