Mustapha Njie is a Master of Arts (MA) student in Global African Studies at The Africa Institute, Global Studies University, specializing in Diplomacy and Africa’s International Relations, from The Gambia. His research explores how Africa engages with the world and how these relationships influence development. Drawing on his experience growing up in The Gambia and working as an accountant, Mustapha examines how economic policies, trade agreements, and financial decisions are shaped by both domestic and international actors. He is particularly interested in how African states balance external pressures with local development needs, including issues of debt, trade, and economic sovereignty. Through his studies, he aims to strengthen his academic foundation and contribute to policy discussions that promote inclusive growth and foster regional cooperation across the continent.