Africa, What Is The Vision?

When I look at Africa today, the unsettled question that burns within me is: what is the vision? When I examine the various countries, their present and past officials, again the question resounds: what is the all-embracing vision for Africa?

There are many conferences, policy discussions, analysis, meetings, investment forums and the like. People gather to issue bold declarations and start different initiatives. And while all of this has value, today I still do not see or have heard a genuine vision for the continent that is established as the guiding light and fundamental principle around which all activities and African countries are meticulously organized and coordinated.

Africa, what is the vision?

People may point to the African Union 2063 Agenda. I have read it, but they are just words on a document whose effect has been lukewarm at best. I have yet to see an African official who embodies the spirit of that vision along with their own, who burns like an ocean of flames for indigenous African nation-building! That when they speak you feel the volcanic heat of enthusiasm that inspires bold and diligent action to reclaim the African destiny! The type of official that no longer has a vision but has become the vision!

Africa, what is the vision? And where are the visionaries?

This question troubles me because there is need for it. You see, there are two types of changes – changes within a system, and changes to a system. Most of these activities, initiatives and conferences are based on incremental changes within the system. But the type of vision I am referring is about changes to the system itself, that still embraces the smaller incremental changes.

Since African countries gained independence, it has been a continuation of the adopted colonial systems. A Continental Congress still needs to be called to revisit and initiate changes to these adopted institutions and systems, in order to redirect, redefine, and redesign the African destiny!

Africa, what is the vision? That is the call of this generation.

Onward & Upward!

~Dr. Ikenna Ezealah