Chapter 112: Wild Hope
Ernst recognized the importance of diversifying East Africa's industries while still focusing on agriculture. To meet the growing population's needs, he understood that some basic industries and handicrafts had to be established locally, as relying solely on imports for everyday items like pots and pans would be cost-prohibitive.
Handicraft industries such as blacksmith shops, tailor shops, and carpentry were considered essential for meeting the daily needs of East African residents and reducing dependence on foreign goods.
Basic industries like cement production were also on Ernst's agenda. Establishing local factories for items that East Africa regularly imported would save costs and contribute to self-sufficiency. This included industries like flour mills, oil mills, and textile mills, which would add value to East African agricultural products.
These factories would require steam engines, and to fuel them, Ernst planned to develop local coal mining resources in East Africa, particularly in the Mbeya region. Proper transportation infrastructure would also be essential to facilitate the movement of goods within East Africa.
While Ernst understood the importance of industrialization, he emphasized a gradual approach, focusing on one industry at a time to ensure successful development without overextending resources.
The military industry was a top priority for Ernst, second only to agriculture, as it was crucial for East Africa's security. The colony was in the process of arming itself using decommissioned European weapons, ensuring at least partial self-sufficiency in weapons and ammunition.
Ernst planned to enhance the production of artillery and ammunition in East Africa, but this would take time, as the Trieste Hechingen Arsenal had not yet reached full production capacity.
Expansion remained a key objective for 1868, with a focus on two primary directions: the northwest, known for its fertile lands, and the Omo River Basin, strategically located at the border of Kenya and Ethiopia.
Ernst believed that the Omo River Basin was a unique opportunity, as the British, engaged in a conflict with Ethiopia, were unlikely to interfere with East Africa's expansion in this region. The area's abundant precipitation and water resources were critical for East Africa's development.
Ernst also considered the future energy needs of the Abyssinian Empire and the British involvement. He believed that East Africa's expansion into the Omo River Basin was strategically sound and posed no threat to the core interests of the Abyssinian Empire.
In addition to these expansion plans, northern Kenya, though arid, was designated for development as pastureland to support livestock. Some areas near water sources could potentially grow drought-tolerant crops, but overall, grazing was the primary focus.
Ernst emphasized responsible grazing practices to prevent permanent damage to pastures and maintain sustainability in the region.
Finally, intelligence work was to be conducted in western areas such as Zambia and Zimbabwe, focusing on the exploration of the copper-rich Katanga Plateau. This region had immense copper reserves, among other valuable resources.
East Africa's exploration of this area would be coordinated to avoid conflicts with the Portuguese and align with the resolution of territorial issues in the north.
Ernst's plan was ambitious, and he recognized that East Africa currently had few competitors on the African continent. He aimed to make the most of this advantageous position while ensuring self-sufficiency and sustainable development in the region.
Despite the challenges posed by harsh African environments, Ernst believed that the real threats to East Africa's success were not the indigenous tribes but the continent's challenging conditions. However, with proper planning and resources, he was confident that East Africa could overcome these obstacles and thrive.