Editorial: Solving the problems of Africa

The newly elected chairman of the African Union (AU), President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea, has urged his fellow Africans to take the lead in resolving the conflicts that have ravaged the continent.

In his acceptance remarks, President Obiang said, “The crisis of the values of the African culture is reducing the unity and solidarity among our people. Africa must focus on the dialogue for a peaceful negotiated solution to the conflicts that ravage our towns. Africa must assume, more than ever, a leading role not just on the continent but in the international arena.”

President Obiang also pledged to work to increase the socio-economic development of Africa and to build unity, peace and solidarity among the nations of the continent.

Well, we agree with the new AU Chairman that Africa should take the lead in healing its own wounds (problems). However, our continent should desist from its current nature of making lots of pronouncements without acting upon them.

Actions speaks louder than words and for this reason, we would call on the AU and all the other sub-regional groupings to demonstrate more and talk less, if we want to make headway anyway.

The former AU Chair, the Head of State of Malawi, Bingu Wa Mutharika at the time of his nomination said agriculture and food security was his top priority, yet citizens across the continent became hungrier, starved and poorer. Was it that his colleagues only listened to his maiden statement did nothing to act upon it?

Look at 2010, declared as the year of peace and security. What has been achieved? Nothing, not even a single conflict was resolved, Somalia, Chad, Nigeria, Guinea amongst others all faces continuing conflicts.

This continent rarely makes headlines beyond death and it is high time to put a stop to the senseless killings. Actions! Not Words Will Solve Our Problems.

“Comment is free, but facts are sacred.”