Tonton d'America

Tiken Jah Fakoly's song "Tonton d'America" is a poignant critique of Western influence and the superficial aid provided to African countries. The song uses the metaphor of 'Uncle Ben' and 'Tonton d'America' to represent the Western powers, particularly the United States, and their interventions in Africa. The lyrics describe how these interventions often come in the form of material goods, such as rice that 'never sticks,' toys, and other consumer products, which are presented as gifts but ultimately serve to create dependency rather than genuine development.

The song highlights the superficiality of this aid by pointing out that while the West provides material goods, it fails to offer meaningful education or sustainable solutions. The line 'Des sacs partout mais pas un seul bouquin' (Bags everywhere but not a single book) underscores this point, suggesting that the aid is more about maintaining control and influence rather than empowering the local population. The imagery of the cowboy taking back the Gameboy and declaring himself the sheriff further emphasizes the power dynamics at play, where the West dictates the terms and the local population is left with little agency.

Fakoly also touches on the cultural and economic exploitation that accompanies this aid. The lyrics mention how the West takes valuable resources like zinc, coffee, and copper, leaving the local population with nothing but a homogenized culture and a loss of identity. The song's repetitive chorus, 'Tonton d'America,' serves as a haunting reminder of the pervasive and often detrimental influence of Western powers in Africa. Through this song, Tiken Jah Fakoly calls for a more equitable and respectful relationship between Africa and the West, one that goes beyond superficial aid and addresses the root causes of poverty and underdevelopment.