Africa redraws its place on the map, and on the world stage

What the report says

The Independent Uganda reports that the United Nations General Assembly adopted a “Correct the Map” resolution on Sept. 4 by 164 votes to 1, with 6 abstentions, backing wider use of map projections that more accurately reflect the relative size of the world’s regions. The initiative was proposed by Togo and endorsed by the African Union before the vote. Supporters say it is intended to encourage governments, schools, international organizations and technology companies to move away from default maps that can make Africa appear smaller than it is.

According to the article, the issue is about more than cartography. African officials and analysts quoted by Xinhua argue that the way Africa is represented on maps can shape education, public perception and perceptions of the continent’s influence. Togo’s foreign minister said correcting the map also means correcting how the world sees Africa. The UN resolution points to the Equal Earth projection as a more faithful option, while noting that the Mercator projection still has practical uses, especially for navigation.

The report says the vote also reflects a broader political message: African countries are increasingly trying to speak with one voice and set their own agenda internationally. Togo plans to consult AU members and other supporters over the next six months to promote wider adoption of the change. The article places the debate in a wider context of calls for stronger African representation in global institutions and a more accurate public understanding of the continent’s demographic, economic and geopolitical weight.