Youths urged to value Africa Day
AS THE nation commemorates its 54th anniversary of the founding of the African Union, youths must continue to promote unity and the pan-Africanism agenda, analysts have said.
Africa Day celebrations are held annually on May 25 to mark the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, now known as the African Union. Analysts said youths should embrace the principle of peace and unity in Africa.
Midlands State University (MSU) chairman in the Media and Society Studies department, Dr Zvenyika Mugari said youths must prioritise principles of pan-Africanism set in motion by Africa’s forefathers.
“It is essential for Africans especially the youths to focus more on issues that unite us as a continent. We should ensure that we put to practice the policies that promote panAfricanism,” he said.
Dr Mugari said the older generation should continuously teach youths the importance of valuing Africa day.
“It is sad to note that most young people give much credence to celebrating days like Valentine’s day unlike they do the Africa Day. It is important to celebrate our heritage as a people and the older generation must not tire of teaching the youths about where we come from,” he said.
“Zimbabwean youths are fortunate to have a President who is in the forefront of fighting against colonial rule in the continent. Youths must follow in his footsteps.”
He also commended African leaders for providing education and fighting against the HIV and Aids pandemic.
“Zimbabwe is one of the many countries that have made education to all a priority. Other African nations have followed suit and this brings empowerment to our people. It is also important to applaud the great strides Africa is taking in slowing down the HIV pandemic,” the MSU academic said.
Zanu-PF secretary for Youth Affairs, Cde Kudzai Chipanga said as the nation celebrates Africa Day it was pivotal to promote patriotism. the best way of living,” he said.
Ralph Nduna, a war veteran said Africa Day is a day to remember those who fought for the independence of the continent.
“Many lives were lost in many African countries as people fought for liberation. For Zimbabwe to gain its independence we relied on other African countries such as Mozambique for assistance,” said Nduna.
He said it was important for Africans to teach the youth about the values of pan-Africanism.
“Young people should be taught from a tender age the importance of knowing who they are. Patriotism should be taught to children at a tender age, that way, we are guaranteed the youths will safeguard their nation’s sovereignty,” said Nduna.
When the Organisation of African Unity was formed in 1963 at least over two thirds of the continent had achieved independence. Zimbabwe was however, to later attain its independence.
In 2015 President Mugabe was elected the chairman for African Unity. This was welcomed with great umbrage by western forces which are against his indigenisation policies. While at the helm of the continental body, President Mugabe, helped promote the drive towards the industrialisation of Africa, value addition and beneficiation as well as continental unity.
He also led the discourse on the industrialisation of the continent and steered the pan-Africanism agenda in the continent. Fifty four years down the line Africa has made great strides even though analysts say the continent needs to be weary of neo-colonialist machinations.
Africa Day also signifies Africa’s achievements in stopping racial discrimination, political and economic colonisation, and lack of education in most communities, gender inequalities among many other limitations.
Despite all these achievements the continent still faces high levels of poverty, unemployment, poor infrastructure and xenophobic attacks among other challenges. Africa largely relies on the West for the beneficiation of its minerals such as gold and diamonds. Analysts say there is need for Africa to become self-sufficient in order for it to enjoy its own resources.Zimpapers Syndication.