Despite vast challenges

Sir,

I sincerely believe that Africa is a dynamic place to live in and despite our vast challenges in certain areas, we are heading towards a prosperous future. To some, my firm standpoint on Africa’s greatness seems naïve but I believe that a quick look into our history reveals just how resilient and productive we have been, and can be.

In all honesty, it is incredible that Africa has even managed to come this far considering that it was a one stop shop for slaves, mineral resources and land. This great continent was raided by squads of foreign interests and plunged into pits of cruelty, deadly divisions and dependence. In many ways, some of these acts from the past still rear their ugly heads in today’s Africa, even though they tend to be less overt, they are still as strategic and damaging as before.

Christian

Proud

As I indicated in the beginning, I am proud of this land, its people and all the strides it has made, primarily in the past 54 years or so. In all this pride that I have for this land, I still realise that we have a lot to do towards transforming Africa into a global power force, where growth is inclusive and not just reserved for a select few. I dream of an Africa that distributes its wealth equally and fairly. I dream of an Africa that stands together and not only tries to solve its problems through dialogue but takes it a step further and puts its money where its mouth is. I dream of Africans who exude love, Ubuntu and service for the continent as a whole rather than just their country of origin. I dream of an Africa that goes to international forums with enough leverage and clout to negotiate strong beneficial deals and reforms. I dream of an Africa that calls its own shots.

As I look around, I can see that conversations around our transformation are in full swing but we must realise that future generations will judge us not on our dreams or ideas but rather on our will and ability to act on them.