Wilson Center Africa Program’s Post

"Unleash Africa’s economic potential: a call for bold economic leadership". In this issue we explore the economic leadership that Africa needs with George Sebulela . Find out more for free here below! https://lnkd.in/gMdegXTC

The continent of Africa 🌍 has the potential to become the most powerful continent in the world, with good governance, leadership and economic activity, this can be achieved.

Reflecting on the words of the late and former President of Ghana, Prof. John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, who stated in an interview (link: https://lnkd.in/et7nCX_S), 'My contributions to the development of Africa is to lead by example for my other colleague presidents to follow suit.' These words are more relevant than ever, serving as a guiding principle for all of us. The challenge in Africa often lies in the enthusiasm of many pan-Africanists who traverse the continent, championing the cause of a united Africa and development across its nations. While this vision is commendable, the best way to advance it is to start by diligently improving their own communities. By doing so, they establish a model that others can replicate. It's a step-by-step process; attempting to solve everything at once often leads to failure. The focus should be on transforming their own surroundings into a beacon of progress, rather than highlighting achievements in other continents. This approach is gradual, requiring patience over many years. The desired change might not be witnessed in their lifetime, yet their dedication to an effective strategy ensures a legacy of impact. These insights hold crucial lessons for both present and future leaders. Accountability and fairness towards our people are key to building our countries and our entire continent. Let's heed these words and work collectively for a brighter future.

Introducing our remarkable alumnus, Dr Rhulani Ernest Mahlaule, whose commitment to his academic journey reflects a passion for African solutions, guided by factual reasoning and innovation. Driven by the goal of co-creating strategies, Dr Mahlaule envisions a future where Africa transcends historical stagnation, guided by the lessons learned during his impactful odyssey. Read more here >

The New Africa And The West As a public relations and international affairs analyst, I have one piece of advice for the WESTERN POWERS. 1. They cannot continue to keep unpopular leaders in power. 2. The WEST need to properly train its new generation of DIPLOMATS that are so inexperienced now because the old PLAY BOOK is OUTDATED. 3. The new AFRICA, especially WEST AFRICA needs more than just DEMOCRACY SLOGAN. 4. The WEST must also change its attitude back home on how it treats and relates with their MINORITIES. 5. Africa needs infrastructure and development, not just workshops and mere meetings that are fueling resentment from the new generation of AFRICAN LEADERS. Finally, using some PRIVILEGE DIASPORAS no longer work anywhere in AFRICA.

President Yoweri Museveni's address at the International Development Association's (IDA) Summit for African Heads of State provided a compelling narrative that encapsulates the prevailing geopolitical and socio-economic dynamics of the continent. His unequivocal stance on rejecting the historical patterns of exploitation by more developed nations underscores a burgeoning sentiment among African leadership. President Museveni's resolute commitment to safeguarding national interests and the welfare of citizens is emblematic of the leadership imperative required in contemporary Africa. The strategic prioritization of our continent's natural resources, the fostering of sustainable job creation, and the advancement of industrial autonomy are essential for long-term economic sovereignty. In his speech, President Museveni emphasized the imperative for African nations to eschew short-term economic gains in favor of comprehensive industrialization strategies. This paradigm shift is crucial for augmenting value retention within our borders and enhancing the fiscal resilience of our economies. As African leaders, the collective endeavor must be to fortify our resolve in the stewardship of our minerals, to champion the cause of employment security, and to safeguard the prospects of future generations. This clarion call to action is not merely a defensive posture against external pressures but a proactive strategy for self-determined progression. It is incumbent upon all African heads of state to stand in solidarity on this front, ensuring that we navigate the global stage with unwavering intent and unity of purpose.

A country with the human and geographic capacity to contribute commodities like sorghum, millet, corn, cassava, ginger, tigernuts, rice, and tomatoes to global markets is facing food insecurity. From May to September, over 26 million Nigerians face food insecurity according to the Cadre Harmonize report. We are discussing how supporting smallholder farmers through investment in produce processing can reduce post-harvest losses (currently around 40% for many commodities). By incentivizing more farmers across all regions of Nigeria—not just the north—we can cut down food costs driven by transport and inadequate cold chains. Additionally, addressing information asymmetries is crucial. Rural farmers and traders often lack access to market information, understanding of price fluctuations, and knowledge of quality standards, which perpetuates poverty. By improving the free flow of information and educating citizens, the media can empower farmers to better navigate markets and drive economic growth.

How can we build the Africa we want? This is the question that drove Lucy Surhyel Newman, CPT., DBA to write her book, African Leaders' Tête À Tête. It was also the main theme in the conversation we had that was hosted by the UONGOZI Institute with Dr Kitila Mkumbo, Minister of Planning and Investments graciously providing a review of the book as well. To watch the full video click here https://lnkd.in/dtaEfixv

The CSIR: Exploring Endless Possibilities for South Africa and The Continent "South Africa is a land of possibilities.” It’s a sentiment shared by many. Whether it be the poets praising the potential of this country, the leaders inspiring millions to work towards a better future, or the historians reflecting on how far we’ve come, and how much further we can go. But hearing it from Dr Thulani Dlamini, Cert. Dir., the CEO of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), offers a perspective which looks less at the broad brushstrokes but more towards the finer details and possibilities that scientific research illuminates. And like our great poets, great leaders and great historians, Dr Dlamini turns to one of the motifs which make South Africa what it is, and what it could be: the people. “The CSIR is a national asset that belongs to all the people of South Africa,” says Dr Dlamini, speaking to Public Sector Leaders, just days after the launch of CSIR C³, the organisation’s new enterprise geared towards the commercialisation of its intellectual property. Read his cover icon feature from the latest edition of Public Sector Leaders here: https://hubs.la/Q02b0fqb0 #IntellectualProperty #Technology #Development #PublicSectorLeaders #Publication #TopcoMedia

The 68th edition of Africa in Fact is a captivating exploration of the dynamic nature of local governance in Africa. Uncover the empirical measurements shaping every facet of human existence, influencing society, and leaving a lasting impact on the environment. Explore the prime ground for these measurements—Africa—where technological innovation intertwines with the intricate fabric of governance. For a nuanced perspective on the current state of local governance, read the latest edition here: https://lnkd.in/dkkBk6cc