The Paradox of Wakanda's Silence: Why Hasn't Wakanda Protected Other Countries from Colonies?

Many fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, particularly those of the Black Panther movie, have been curious about why Wakanda, this highly advanced and technologically superior nation, hasn't taken a more active role in protecting other African countries from colonial struggles. This article delves into the reasons behind Wakanda's silence and actions, and the perspectives of those who feel differently.

Wakanda's Role in Rescuing African Captives

The movie opens with a scene that highlights Wakanda's benevolent actions, as shown when they assist in rescuing kidnapped girls in the northern part of Nigeria. However, this intervention is far from naked heroism. It is a well-calibrated operation by a covert superpower, endeavoring to balance its interests with moral imperatives.

Wanda's Accidental Destruction in Captain America: Civil War

Fast forward to Captain America: Civil War, where Wanda Maximoff, with her God-like powers, inadvertently destroys a building housing Wakandan delegates to Nigeria. This event further complicates the narrative, raising questions about Wakanda's role and behavior.

Wakanda Themselves: A Covert Superpower with Extensive Intelligence

Wakanda is a nation of covert powerhouses with an extensive global intelligence network. They can move in and out of any foreign country without hindrance, a testament to their secrecy and technological prowess. They've been concealing themselves from the world due to the immense value of Vibranium, their precious resource that underpins their technological superiority.

Their strategy has been to help other African countries on a 'low-key' basis. They may offer aid and support, but they do so discreetly to avoid blowing their cover and revealing Vibranium's existence. This approach has allowed them to maintain their clandestine status and protect their nation's secret.

Perceptions and Criticisms

However, not everyone sees Wakanda's actions in the same light. A Tanzanian girl from the Kikuyu peoples, for instance, lamented the 'wakandation' of the continent, the merging of African countries into a single entity that ignores cultural differences. She argued that this was as racist as when people say Africans enslaved other Africans. This critique underscores the deep ties between colonialism and cultural assimilation.

The girl's disapproval is rooted in her community's desire to maintain their unique identity and traditions. She believes that Wakanda's actions are an attempt to impose a uniform African culture, erasing individual cultural contributions in the pursuit of a utopian vision.

The Notion of Wakanda as a Fictional Concept

Another layer to this debate is the acknowledgment that Wakanda is a fictional nation. In the real world, nations like the United States and others have interfered in African affairs, often leading to more harm than good. The idea of Wakanda-a nation that can intervene effectively but chooses not to-brings to light the ethical dilemmas and moral complexities involved in international intervention.

Furthermore, the notion that Wakanda is an isolationist state is particularly relevant. They want to protect the secret of Vibranium and their advanced technology. If they were to use their superior capabilities to actively protect other African countries, the truth about Vibranium would likely come to light, destroying the very anonymity they have worked so hard to maintain.

Conclusion

The question of why Wakanda hasn't played a more active role in protecting other African countries from colonial struggles is multifaceted. It encompasses strategic, ethical, and cultural considerations. While Wakanda's actions in the film might seem unsatisfactory, they can be understood in the broader context of their nation's goals and the real-world implications of interference in African affairs.

Ultimately, the debate around Wakanda's role serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in real-world interventions and the ethical considerations that must be taken into account.