Chapter 111: Population and Agriculture
Ernst's vision for East Africa's future centered on the promotion of German civilization rather than Western concepts like democracy, freedom, and equality. He believed that nationalism, order, the rule of law, and conservatism were the foundations of German culture and should be actively promoted in East Africa. This approach aimed to secure East Africa's stability and was in line with Ernst's traditional aristocratic values.
Immigration remained a top priority for East Africa. It was through immigration that land could be developed, leading to profitability. The profits generated would allow for the expansion of the colony, including the strengthening of its military capabilities.
Ernst intended to build East Africa into a formidable nation that no other African power could challenge, similar to Switzerland in Europe. He was confident that by continuously attracting immigrants and expanding the colony's land and resources, East Africa would become a dominant force on the continent.
Over the next two years, Ernst expected at least 500,000 immigrants to arrive in East Africa, driven by expanding fleets and reduced immigration costs. New sources of immigration, including Russia, Italy, and South American countries, were also being explored.
For Far East immigration, Ernst planned to continue the policy until around 1890. This extended timeline would allow for the introduction of millions of people into East Africa. Coupled with natural population growth, this would significantly increase the colony's size.
Agriculture was the primary focus for now, as it was essential to provide for the growing population. Ernst believed that East Africa needed to establish itself as an agricultural powerhouse before delving into industrialization. Developing industry too early would lead to questions about food security.
Ernst emphasized that agricultural development was not only crucial for feeding the population but also for maintaining East Africa's strength. As an agricultural nation with a strong mobilization system, East Africa would be well-prepared to defend itself against external threats.
Agriculture, with its focus on food production, also provided a reliable source of hard currency, more dependable than industrial products. It ensured East Africa's self-sufficiency and contributed to its economic value.
Ernst understood that other colonists were primarily interested in precious metal mines and plantations, while grain cultivation was less attractive due to lower profits. This worked in his favor, as it allowed him to quietly develop East Africa's agricultural sector without much competition.
His long-term plan aimed to develop East Africa's population to tens of millions within two decades, making the colony a dominant force in Africa. He was confident that by the time European powers turned their attention to Africa's colonization, East Africa would be firmly established.
Ernst acknowledged the risk of nurturing rebellious sentiments in the colony and took steps to suppress the spread of certain ideas. He also planned to gradually grant rights to East African immigrants and position East Africa as the foundation of his legacy, even more important than the Hexingen consortium.
He foresaw the eventual transition to a constitutional monarchy system in East Africa, dismantling the Hechingen royal family and transforming it into a capitalist family, while continuing to influence the politics of East Africa behind the scenes.
Ernst's vision for East Africa extended far into the future, spanning seventy to eighty years or more. It was a carefully calculated plan to ensure the colony's stability, growth, and lasting influence on the African continent.