The European Commission has launched preparations for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034. In its external action section, the document briefly mentions the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but focuses on “more targeted and impactful financing” and “better alignment with the EU’s strategic interests.” With a shift away from the notion of „equal partnerships,“ a key question arises: how does the EU define truly mutually beneficial cooperation with Africa? Philippe Van Damme explores this issue in depth.