Chapter 135 Iron Fist
As preparations for the next phase of conflict continued in the East African colonies, one significant aspect of these preparations was the development of mineral resources. The potential for resource exploitation in East Africa was a valuable card that the colony held, and it could serve multiple strategic purposes.
1. **Resource Wealth**: East Africa possessed untapped mineral wealth, including valuable minerals like gold, diamonds, and various metals. The exploitation of these resources could not only bring wealth to the colony but also fund its expansion and development.
2. **Economic Growth**: Developing the mining industry and associated infrastructure would stimulate economic growth and create jobs for both immigrants and indigenous populations. This economic vitality would bolster the colony's stability and attract further immigration.
3. **Strategic Leverage**: Control over valuable mineral resources could be used as leverage in diplomatic negotiations with other colonial powers. East Africa could potentially trade these resources for diplomatic support or territorial concessions.
4. **Military Strength**: The revenue generated from resource exploitation could be invested in building a stronger military. A well-equipped and trained army would enhance East Africa's ability to defend its territories and interests.
5. **Colonial Supremacy**: Demonstrating control over resource-rich territories would assert East Africa's status as a formidable colonial power in Africa. This could deter other colonial powers from encroaching on its territories.
The development of mineral resources required careful planning and investment. Mines needed to be established, infrastructure such as railways and roads had to be built to transport the resources, and a stable workforce had to be maintained.
One challenge was to strike a balance between resource extraction and the well-being of indigenous populations. Ensuring that indigenous people benefited from economic development and were not exploited was an important consideration for the colonial government.
By leveraging its mineral wealth, East Africa aimed to establish itself as a self-sustaining and powerful colonial entity in Africa. The colony was aware of the potential threats from other colonial powers, especially the stronger European nations, and it sought to secure its position through a combination of military strength, economic growth, and resource control.
The path ahead for East Africa was clear: to continue its expansion, strengthen its economy, and fortify its defenses. The colony had come a long way in a short time, and its leaders were determined to secure their foothold in Africa while keeping an eye on the ever-evolving global political landscape.