Page 24 - Nigeria one mag 4 edition en

Pan-Africanism the answer for African development

Flag of Pan-Africanism

African development should be theorized around solid Pan-African ideas. The continent was lucky enough to have
eminent figures who conceptualized the future of Africans through solid values and a deep understanding of the
future. It’s high time for African leaders to revisit those ideas and adapt them to new realities.
Africa, we know for sure now will not develop under a foreign model. It needs to identify, prioritize and follow its
own way to meet its destiny. Lucius Annaeus Seneca once said: “If one does not know to which port one is sailing,
no wind is favorable”.
These basic notions are known by each and every one of us but we are not taking the necessary steps to correct
the errors of the past in order to free our mind. Success only comes to those who try and specially who try hard.
First and foremost our leaders should agree on a format that is most adaptable to the majority of countries and
communicate on the direction that needs to be taken. The objective of the communication is to inform and build
interest; especially among the younger generations who need to be aware of their heritage.
Secondly, if it is perceived as a utopia to which for an African federation regrouping all the nations, Africa should
be divided at most into four major blocs sharing the same realities while making sure we have a unique market.
The economic notion is way more important than the political dimensions and ambitions.
Facilitating the free circulation of goods and services will allow an easy commerce between the people who need
to accept, appropriate and mingle for the benefit of all. Eliminating barriers economic barriers should be an easy
step as once said in “Adam Smith’s invisible hand theory”. If each one of us is willing to focus and work on his
project, then GOD’s hand will do the rest.
Another point to note is that Africa needs to heavily promote a one and only African culture based on African
diverse values and develop a deep sense of acceptance from each other. Cultural difference is wealth but this is
not clearly understood. Europe and America were able to build around their diversity to become what they are
today.
Again there is a need to focus and harness Africa’s natural resources on new terms in order to allow more
significant benefits for Africans. Whenever partnership is needed, give priority to other Africans before the rest
of the world when necessary.
As a matter of utmost necessity Africans should be fed by Africa. We can no longer depend on the rest of the
world, especially for what we eat. The Russia-Ukraine war should open our eyes on how quickly the balance can
fall on the wrong side in a heartbeat.
Last but not of least importance, invest in the youth who are our best assets. Africa needs young, dynamic, vibrant,
intelligent and educated leaders of the future. Without it the past will keep on repeating itself or worse there will
be no future.

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