rki.news | Sources Xinhua
NAIROBI, Sept. 10 — Africa is seeking to reshape how the world views the continent after the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution encouraging wider use of map projections that more accurately show relative sizes.
The resolution, adopted Sept. 4 by 164 votes to one, with six abstentions, was proposed by Togo and supported by the African Union (AU). Analysts say its importance goes beyond cartography, reflecting Africa’s growing effort to present its own concerns on the global stage.
The Mercator projection, widely used for navigation, visually enlarges high-latitude regions while making Africa appear smaller than its actual size. Africa is about 14 times larger than Greenland.
The UN resolution highlighted the Equal Earth projection, which represents continents’ relative sizes more accurately. Togo plans consultations with AU members and other supporters to encourage wider adoption, particularly in education and public information.
African analysts said more accurate maps could strengthen understanding of the continent’s demographic, economic and geopolitical importance.
They also viewed the vote as evidence of stronger African unity and collective influence. The initiative reflects broader calls for greater African representation in global institutions, stronger participation in international decision-making and greater space to present African perspectives.
Africa Seeks Stronger Global Voice Through Map Reform
