During a gathering of distinguished African leaders and dignitaries at the launch of 5th Festac Festival in Kisumu County. Former President of Nigeria Olusegun Obasanjo delivered a powerful and emotional speech, calling for a united effort to ensure Africa’s economic liberation. As the guest speaker during the festival, he expressed deep appreciation for the commitment shown by those present, Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, governors from the lake region as well as national, local leaders and other key figures from across the continent.
He talked of his heartfelt thanks for African’s tenacity and determination that brought Africa to this point, specifically referring to efforts in reigniting what he termed “Africa Renaissance”.
He emphasized on how African energy and resources since time have been exploited to enrich other continents, lamenting that the trend still continues in Africa to date.
“Africa is poor not because of an act of God but because of a ‘colonized mentality,’ and we must wake up “ he boldly stated, capturing the essence of his message to the gathering. He emphasized on an urgent re-examination of the current systemic challenges holding the African continent back.
He passed a powerful message, saying that Africa’s poverty is not part of an act of God but a result of systemic exploitation and mismanagement over the years. He talked of the need for structural reforms that will genuinely benefit Africa. He criticized the famous structural adjustments imposed to African countries by foreign entities like the World Bank, which have only perpetuated Africa’s struggles.
He challenged Africans on the concept of globalization, describing it as a mechanism that has left Africa countries vulnerable to external exploitation “Globalization means opening our doors so others can take what they want from us while keeping their doors shut to us “Obasanjo stated.
He also challenged Africa by invoking an African saying: “If you want to go far, walk together; if you want to go fast, walk alone.” He urged all leaders present during the festival to prioritize unity, to realize the continent’s potential.
He recognized that while political liberation has been achieved ever since, economic liberation of African countries still remains elusive. He argued that economic liberation is Africa’s next great challenge. “We have everything to create wealth on the continent of Africa. Nobody will do it for us; we have to do it for ourselves,”
He rallied the audience to take necessary steps towards wealth creation. He called for African leaders to focus on wealth creation for the continent’s youth, who are currently growing increasingly restless and frustrated by the lack of job opportunities. He emphasized on the urgency of addressing for both youth unemployment and dissatisfaction. He warned of the potential consequences if Africa fails to meet demands of the youth.
He concluded in an optimistic note, expressing confidence in Africa that it will indeed achieve economic liberation, but urged immediate action. He called on fellow leaders to pave the way for a continent free from external control, economically strong, which is able to provide for its people.