Africa Day - the Africa We Want

On 25 May, Africa we celebrate Africa Day. On this day in 1963, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with 32 signatory governments, the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) was formed. The OAU disbanded on 9 July 2002 to be replaced by the African Union (AU). At its formation, the founding fathers saw the end of colonialism and white minority rule and the start of co-operation among African states in order to achieve a better life for the people of Africa. Among other aims, the AU also sought to defend the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of African states. It united Africa and gave it a voice for charting the way forward in the geopolitical arena, which had been dominated by the imperial forces and colonisers that pillaged Africa's resources over a long period of time.

While self-determination, self-rule and political freedom were celebrated after the fall of colonialism, what became of the emancipation project, particularly economic freedom? How does the AU position itself to be a critical player in the global arena, rather than being subservient and a receiver of aid from the West and China? It is of critical importance that we take stock of the fate of the historic African revolution, the one that fought against imperialism and colonisation and for the ideals of a pan-African continent that spoke with one voice. What became of it? What is the fate of the liberation movements - are they still viable projects for achieving the total African emancipation? Liberation movements across the spectrum have experienced considerable difficulty in making the transition from struggle to government, and they have mostly failed at the last hurdle of the struggle - that of economic freedom. Fanon critiqued how the liberation leaders, after independence, will happily cosy up to accept crumbs from the former colonial power. He argued that national liberation would remain an empty shell if it failed to transform politically and economically. This should serve as a reminder to African leaders.

...

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 100 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.