TakingITGlobal - Panorama

Published on: Nov 4, 2004

Topic:

Type: Opinions

https://www.tigweb.org/express/panorama/article.html?ContentID=4593

Africa has since time immemorial been perceived as the dark continent and the myriad of problems that arise from time to time only seem to ascertain those sentiments.
The big question that arises is: can Africa solve its problems without external interference?
The inauguration of the African Union was great news for this continent and the strengthening of it from the former Organization of African Unity (OAU) only goes to show that internal conflicts are best solved within.
With particular reference to the atrocities currently staged by the Janjaweed militia in Darfur, the African Union has been presented with an opportunity to prove its viability and strength. It is imperative that the western nations take a keen look at the unfolding events and give this autonomous body a way to perform its duty without interference. The European Union and United Nations among other international bodies should only come in as a last resort. It is noteworthy that this body has the adequate financial backing, visionary leaders and the goodwill to work independently. It is simply logical for our own African leaders to shout out for interference from the West every time quagmires arise.
If we have to achieve any meaningful development in Africa, change has to start from within and we have to learn to solve our own conundrums, for it is only when we take proactive measures to maintain economic, social, political and military independence that peace, security and development will be realized in Africa.

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by Mary Mureithi
Published on: Nov 4, 2004
Topic:
Type: Opinions
https://www.tigweb.org/express/panorama/article.html?ContentID=4593


Africa has since time immemorial been perceived as the dark continent and the myriad of problems that arise from time to time only seem to ascertain those sentiments. The big question that arises is: can Africa solve its problems without external interference? The inauguration of the African Union was great news for this continent and the strengthening of it from the former Organization of African Unity (OAU) only goes to show that internal conflicts are best solved within. With particular reference to the atrocities currently staged by the Janjaweed militia in Darfur, the African Union has been presented with an opportunity to prove its viability and strength. It is imperative that the western nations take a keen look at the unfolding events and give this autonomous body a way to perform its duty without interference. The European Union and United Nations among other international bodies should only come in as a last resort. It is noteworthy that this body has the adequate financial backing, visionary leaders and the goodwill to work independently. It is simply logical for our own African leaders to shout out for interference from the West every time quagmires arise. If we have to achieve any meaningful development in Africa, change has to start from within and we have to learn to solve our own conundrums, for it is only when we take proactive measures to maintain economic, social, political and military independence that peace, security and development will be realized in Africa. « return.