Africa—‘The Tragedy of The Commons’ Will the Sleeping Giant Awaken in Our Generation?

By Francis K’Owuor –
July 7th,2018
That a massively blessed continent in terms of land mass, natural resources, human resources and general climate remains the poorest continent in the world is something that should concern any person that is well meaning. The African situation is such that a complete turn-around might not be possible in this generation. The sociocultural, economic and political prospects remain bleak for majority of African countries.

The African problem is multifaceted—From governance issues to culture. From a sorry historical background of imperialism to a continuing experience with neo-colonialism—Where former colonial masters have no stranglehold, African rulers have turned to be the oppressors of their fellow Africans. Democracy has failed to take root in the continent. Ethnic divisions, corruption and impunity are rife. Consequently, the continent cannot fully employ her resources to produce adequate material, emotional and intellectual goods to satisfy the needs of her people. A multi pronged strategy is needed to address poverty, disease, ignorance and misrule.

The most despicable and worrying manifestations of poverty and conflict in Africa is the number of young people who die in the seas and oceans trying to cross over to Europe. Or the African slaves, mostly women, who die from torture in Arab countries. Or the young men who die in the hands of rebels in conflict zones in West Africa and Eastern Africa (Burundi, South Sudan and Somalia). Not to forget others who die in ethnic clashes across the continent. It is horrible to say the least.

This definitely calls for urgent attention from among African leaders, professionals, philosophers, and the world to come up with viable solutions. The complex nature of the African situation means that there is no one-fits-all solution.

Countries like Rwanda, Botswana, Seychelles, Mauritius, just to mention a few are making significant gains in wealth creation. But opinions are still divided on the situation of Rwanda as a country where benevolent dictatorship is being experimented. In fact, there is a debate as to whether Western style Democracy is relevant to governance in Africa. This brings to the fore some great insights by Emperor Haile Selassie. He said, ” No single document, however profound and persuasive can, of itself, bring about far-reaching and fundamental constitutional progress. No constitutional progress can take effect unless it is rooted in the traditions, customs, predilections, and habits, as well as the legal customs of the society upon which it is based.” The collective plunder of Africa’s resources is the tragedy that has become the new normal.

Cultural transformation, economic revival and institutional reforms are urgently needed if the giant that is Africa has to awaken.

The writer is a Human Rights Activist and a Political Science Student and the University of Nairobi.

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