Kofi Annan: The West can’t solve Africa's problems

Read Article

Comments (59)

This article is closed for comments.

Read Comments Comments (59)

EDUARDO DOMINGO 10 years ago

THEY NEED A REAL LECTURE FROM YOU , TELL THEM SIR!!!

THEY NEED A REAL LECTURE FROM YOU , TELL THEM SIR!!!
KB,LONDON 10 years ago

AFRICAN POLITICIANS ARE MOSTLY THIEVES. IMAGINE THESE PEOPLE PAY THEMSELVES HUGE SUMS OF MONEY, THEN DO NOTHING BUT TAKE LOANS AND STEAL THE MONEY. THE WEST IS FULLY AWARE OF THESE THIEVES;YOU CAN'T FOOL THEM ALL THE TIME. UN ...
read full comment

AFRICAN POLITICIANS ARE MOSTLY THIEVES. IMAGINE THESE PEOPLE PAY THEMSELVES HUGE SUMS OF MONEY, THEN DO NOTHING BUT TAKE LOANS AND STEAL THE MONEY. THE WEST IS FULLY AWARE OF THESE THIEVES;YOU CAN'T FOOL THEM ALL THE TIME. UNTIL YOU'VE LIVED ABROAD, YOU'LL NEVER UNDERSTAND HOW STUPID AFRICAN POLITICIANS ARE. NOW IMAGINE HOW MANY SOCIAL POLICIES NPP PUT IN PLACE THAT THE NDC HAS DESTROYED? THESE ARE SOME OF THE POLICIES THAT MAKE DEVELOPED COUNTRIES WORTH LIVING. NDC WILL DESTROY ALL SUCH INTERVENTIONS AND KEEP THE MONEY IN THEIR POCKETS. IF THAT IS WHAT GHANAIANS WANT, LET THEM KEEP VOTING NDC. EVEN RAWLINGS, THE HUNGRY MAN WHO TOOK THE GUN AND KILLED OTHERS, IS SCARED OF THE MONSTERS RULING THE COUNTRY TODAY. MONSTERS HE CREATED.
Jackie 10 years ago

Be objective pls. What has this point of ndc npp got to do with ideas as to how to combat boko haram got to do with Ghana political parties? Instead of you bringing ideas on board...is that all you got to say? please grow up.

Be objective pls. What has this point of ndc npp got to do with ideas as to how to combat boko haram got to do with Ghana political parties? Instead of you bringing ideas on board...is that all you got to say? please grow up.
Kwami - US 10 years ago

ghanaians no more make sense in their very poor comments and analyses. Is Prez Mahama the Nigerian President?

ghanaians no more make sense in their very poor comments and analyses. Is Prez Mahama the Nigerian President?
Aikins 10 years ago

So long as mahama remains the chairman of ecowas ghana and West Africa will continue to suffer.

So long as mahama remains the chairman of ecowas ghana and West Africa will continue to suffer.
ELINAM 10 years ago

All the African leaders who had attended the French rally but did not say a word on similar mass killing in Nigeria has shown to the world how stupid and uncaring they are including that Badluck Jonathan.

All the African leaders who had attended the French rally but did not say a word on similar mass killing in Nigeria has shown to the world how stupid and uncaring they are including that Badluck Jonathan.
SIMON 10 years ago

PLUG THE HOLES AND USE TECHNOLOGY TO ERADICATE WASTE, LEAKING BASKETS THAT HOW GOOD LEADERS DO THIKING OUTSIDE THE BOX NOT TALK TALK IT BEEN GOING ON FOR 50YRS. JUST LIKE EBOLA, AIDS, MALARIA, CHOLERA AND OTHER DISEASES HAVE ...
read full comment

PLUG THE HOLES AND USE TECHNOLOGY TO ERADICATE WASTE, LEAKING BASKETS THAT HOW GOOD LEADERS DO THIKING OUTSIDE THE BOX NOT TALK TALK IT BEEN GOING ON FOR 50YRS. JUST LIKE EBOLA, AIDS, MALARIA, CHOLERA AND OTHER DISEASES HAVE NO SUPPORTED BETTER RESEARCH, DEVELOPEMENT LABS TO PRODUCE VACCINES USELESS THINK THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX AND STOP LOOTING STEALING THANK YOU THANK YOU DR. ANNAN
KWABENA OHEMENG,LONDON 10 years ago

Kofi, the West even compounded our problems by imposing their alien culture on us during their years of colonizing Africa.They never even practised democracy,they demonized our culture and imposed theirs on us. Now they want ...
read full comment

Kofi, the West even compounded our problems by imposing their alien culture on us during their years of colonizing Africa.They never even practised democracy,they demonized our culture and imposed theirs on us. Now they want africans to practise western democracy and accept their values no matter what forgetting that a nation's culture is its engine for development.
MARCUS 10 years ago

LIKE THEIR RELIGION [CHRISTIANITY]THANKS KWABENA OHEMENG

LIKE THEIR RELIGION [CHRISTIANITY]THANKS KWABENA OHEMENG
United Ghana 10 years ago

Ohemeng sadly not many Africans realise that

Ohemeng sadly not many Africans realise that

Contemporary Youth 10 years ago

Exactly,the west have their own unique problems.The fact of the matter is,they would do better, if positions and zones are swapped with Africa, please don't ask me why.

Exactly,the west have their own unique problems.The fact of the matter is,they would do better, if positions and zones are swapped with Africa, please don't ask me why.
Aikins 10 years ago

And you're proudly writing from their capital? Whats wrong with you come back home.

And you're proudly writing from their capital? Whats wrong with you come back home.
Nii 10 years ago

Aikins, you made my day. Why is Kwabena Ohemeng enjoying and writing from London? He is obviously enjoying the good life, democracy and the culture of London. He is not even ashamed of that. He boldly exhibits it and at the ...
read full comment

Aikins, you made my day. Why is Kwabena Ohemeng enjoying and writing from London? He is obviously enjoying the good life, democracy and the culture of London. He is not even ashamed of that. He boldly exhibits it and at the same time condemns it. He is like Dr Spio, whose children and siblings are all in America and yet he condemns American visa lottery as slavery.
MENSAH 10 years ago

How many DIASPORANS want to stay in Ghana?
NON OF US OUTSIDE GHANA IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PROBLEMS GHANAIANS HAVE CREATED FOR THEMSELVES.
Your own Politicians and Government Officials and their cronies,with unpatriotic citi ...
read full comment

How many DIASPORANS want to stay in Ghana?
NON OF US OUTSIDE GHANA IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PROBLEMS GHANAIANS HAVE CREATED FOR THEMSELVES.
Your own Politicians and Government Officials and their cronies,with unpatriotic citizens,as well,have created all these uncountable,unnecessary burdens for Ghana.
We rather think of Ghana better than you guys living there.
The filth that breeds mosquitoes to bite you guys is not done by those of us abroad,but the indigenous citizens,living in Ghana.
Your government always uses your money anyhow and pays an unwanted and unnecessary JUDGEMENT DEBT,with it.
THEY HAVE NO ACUMEN IN USING YOUR MONEY TO MAKE MONEY FOR YOU.
It's so sad,you are suffering,and we even feel it more than you who live in it.
Things that are unusual have become usual and real to you,because it is the order of the day.
Your uncaring government could purchase FAKE DRUGS from TOBINCO LTD,and supplied to you in the government hospitals.
But DRUGS FROM INDIA AND CHINA,are not in any DRUG STORES IN CANADA.
WHY?
THEY DON'T QUALIFY TO BE HERE.THEY DON'T MEET THE STANDARD QUALITY OF CANADA.
SO INDIANS AND CHINESE,DON'T BRING IT HERE.IT WOULD BE CONSFICATED AND SPOILED.

YOUR GOVERNMENT DOESN'T THINK OF YOU.
kwabema ohemeng,london. 10 years ago

Yes, i am extremely proud to be writing from London.What stops me from doing so? Osagyefo and others took their inspiration from living outside of Ghana .My stay in Europe has removed the 'scales' from my eyes.You may be one ...
read full comment

Yes, i am extremely proud to be writing from London.What stops me from doing so? Osagyefo and others took their inspiration from living outside of Ghana .My stay in Europe has removed the 'scales' from my eyes.You may be one of the blinded lot.
BRITISH PRIME MINISTER 10 years ago

Now that the scales have been removed from your eyes, go back home and practise your culture. Nkrumah took inspiration from living outside Ghana but once he got the inspiration, he went home. There is real plantain in Ghana ...
read full comment

Now that the scales have been removed from your eyes, go back home and practise your culture. Nkrumah took inspiration from living outside Ghana but once he got the inspiration, he went home. There is real plantain in Ghana. Its time for you to stop eating semolina.
PREKESE-RUSSIA 10 years ago

HAHAHAHA,WHAT A FUNNY GUY?.YOU HAVE THE RIGHT ANSWER FOR KWABENA.NANA SEMOLINA IS NOT COMING HOME NOW TILL HE IS 80YEARS.NOW THERE ARE LOT OF PLANTAINS IN LONDON THAN GHANA.SO HE FEELS HE IS AT HOME.GO AND SEE HIS STOMACH AND ...
read full comment

HAHAHAHA,WHAT A FUNNY GUY?.YOU HAVE THE RIGHT ANSWER FOR KWABENA.NANA SEMOLINA IS NOT COMING HOME NOW TILL HE IS 80YEARS.NOW THERE ARE LOT OF PLANTAINS IN LONDON THAN GHANA.SO HE FEELS HE IS AT HOME.GO AND SEE HIS STOMACH AND BEARD MORE THAN A GA MAN AT JAMES TOWN.
OWEN,NEW YORK. 10 years ago

WHEN YOU COLLECT COCOA DRINK, PIECE OF BREAD AND A QUATER MEASURE OF AKPETESHIE FROM ASIEDU NKETIAH AND VOTE FOR CORRUPT LEADERS AND JOHN MAHAMA,WHY SHOULD PEOPLE WITH BRAINS LIKE OHEMENG AND OWEN STAY IN GHANA TO SUFFER IN D ...
read full comment

WHEN YOU COLLECT COCOA DRINK, PIECE OF BREAD AND A QUATER MEASURE OF AKPETESHIE FROM ASIEDU NKETIAH AND VOTE FOR CORRUPT LEADERS AND JOHN MAHAMA,WHY SHOULD PEOPLE WITH BRAINS LIKE OHEMENG AND OWEN STAY IN GHANA TO SUFFER IN DARKNESS.NO WATER,NO LIGHT,NO GOOD HEALTH INSURANCE,NO JOBS AND NO BETTER SCHOOLS FOR OUR KIDS.WHO DOESN'T WANT TO GO TO HEAVEN ? WHO WANT TO SUFFER IN THIS WORLD ? I DIDN'T KNOW THAT THERE IS A DIFFERENT WORLD UNTILL I REACHED AMERICA. STOP COLLECTING BRIBES AND VOTE FOR GOOD LEADERS LIKE NANA ADDO AND BAWUMIA ,AND GHANA WILL BE NEXT TO AMERICA.
Aikins 10 years ago

Owen no one is faulting Kwabena for staying outside ghana, my worry was the way he commented about those people over there and still feel comfortable living with them. How long a we Africans going to blame the white people. I ...
read full comment

Owen no one is faulting Kwabena for staying outside ghana, my worry was the way he commented about those people over there and still feel comfortable living with them. How long a we Africans going to blame the white people. I have said so long as mahama and ndc remain in power ghana will continue to bleed. I use to travel outside myself a lot.
MR GHANA 10 years ago

My Dear Thank You.Why didn't Kofi Annan stay in Ghana and worked as a pigeon hole supervisor at Tech than worked for the so called West.HYPOCRITES

My Dear Thank You.Why didn't Kofi Annan stay in Ghana and worked as a pigeon hole supervisor at Tech than worked for the so called West.HYPOCRITES

Nana Frimpong 10 years ago

"They demonized our culture and imposed theirs on us; a nation's culture is its engine for development." Which culture are you talking about? The one that puts too much power in one person hand; the culture that says the elde ...
read full comment

"They demonized our culture and imposed theirs on us; a nation's culture is its engine for development." Which culture are you talking about? The one that puts too much power in one person hand; the culture that says the elders are always right no matter what and the young ones are not allowed or encouraged to express their opinion without being labelled as DISRESPECTFUL, ARROGANT, and you name it. In fact, most African culture does not give room to disagreeing with elders or people in power without being silenced one way or the other. Culture, in a simplest definition, is the way a group of people live (i.e. how they think and behave, how,where and when they work etc). As the climate changes, human behavior changes as swell, but a community that is heavily rooted in culture does not accept such changes. Such community will continue to do things the same way, will not change its way of thinking, etc. all in the name of culture- hence our stagnant development. We all know very well that polygamy places huge burden on families - limited resources are stretched thin in order to meets everyone's need and that means insufficient food on the table or children get little or no FORMAL EDUCATION, but most Africans accept and entertain this and many other practices in the name of culture. This is what I called 'CULTURE of POVERTY'- this is who we are and this how we do things, let us keep it that way no matter what all in the name of CULTURE. Ever heard this expression "Akoko ne sekan emmo nkuro" literally translated as 'The hen should not argue with the knife.' In other words, the elders are the only ones with a say in everything and no justice for everybody else. Our problems have too little to do with the West. Blame it on that CULTURE of POVERTY.
Jackie 10 years ago

Good job ????

Good job ????
Jackie 10 years ago

Good job ????

Good job ????
Jackie 10 years ago

Good job ????

Good job ????
MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR IMMIGRATION, 10 years ago

Kwabena Ohemeng, I agree with you. Leave London, go back home and practise your culture and your values which is the engine of your growth. I will be happy to pay for your one-way ticket (first class) to Accra from my pocke ...
read full comment

Kwabena Ohemeng, I agree with you. Leave London, go back home and practise your culture and your values which is the engine of your growth. I will be happy to pay for your one-way ticket (first class) to Accra from my pocket.
ELINAM 10 years ago

It's so sad when everybody especially the pastors who lament on the rampant indiscipline in society today but could not wake up to see that they as the gate keepers of European values are the main culprit why our society is ...
read full comment

It's so sad when everybody especially the pastors who lament on the rampant indiscipline in society today but could not wake up to see that they as the gate keepers of European values are the main culprit why our society is dying.
Every society have myth and taboos. We used to have reverence for our environment, the rivers we regarded as gods were not ever littered but stupid christianity told us to disregard them and what do we see, filth all over from our souls to the environment.
BRITISH PRIME MINISTER 10 years ago

Kwabena Ohemeng, I agree with you. Leave London, go back home and practise your culture and your values which is the engine of your growth. I will be happy to pay for your one-way ticket (first class) to Accra from my pocket.

Kwabena Ohemeng, I agree with you. Leave London, go back home and practise your culture and your values which is the engine of your growth. I will be happy to pay for your one-way ticket (first class) to Accra from my pocket.
kwabema ohemeng,london. 10 years ago

Proud to be a Ghanaian and I will die in Ghana and be buried in Ghana.Anyway i am still a holder of Ghana passport.

Proud to be a Ghanaian and I will die in Ghana and be buried in Ghana.Anyway i am still a holder of Ghana passport.
BRITISH PRIME MINISTER 10 years ago

I heard you say you will die in Ghana and be buried in Ghana. I did not hear you say you will live in Ghana. Ghana doesn't want your dead body. Just enjoy your semolina in London and stop giving lectures condemning Europea ...
read full comment

I heard you say you will die in Ghana and be buried in Ghana. I did not hear you say you will live in Ghana. Ghana doesn't want your dead body. Just enjoy your semolina in London and stop giving lectures condemning European culture.
Tet 10 years ago

How can he not be in Ghana if he dies there?

How can he not be in Ghana if he dies there?

kwabena ohemeng,london. 10 years ago

British Prime Minister Ghana is no more your colony and i am still a holder of Ghana passport. At the appropriate time I will leave your country.I am proud to be a Ghanaian and British citizens live in Ghana.

British Prime Minister Ghana is no more your colony and i am still a holder of Ghana passport. At the appropriate time I will leave your country.I am proud to be a Ghanaian and British citizens live in Ghana.
Abongo 10 years ago

I agree with you but ironically, the great Nigeria as the claim to be with their big mouth were not able to contain Boko Haram. What a shame. If it were to be money there to loot they will all rush there. Even Nigeria soldier ...
read full comment

I agree with you but ironically, the great Nigeria as the claim to be with their big mouth were not able to contain Boko Haram. What a shame. If it were to be money there to loot they will all rush there. Even Nigeria soldiers were running away Hahahahahaha
ISSA ABONGO 10 years ago

IS IT NOW THAT, KOFI ANNAN IS AWAKE FROM HIS SLEEP????????? HE HAS BEEN SLEEPING SINCE HE GOT HIS FIRST UN JOB AND SINCE HIS RETIREMENT. GOOD HE IS GETTING AWAKE FROM HIS LONG SLEEP. AFRICA WILL BE DEVELOPED BY AFRICAN, THAT ...
read full comment

IS IT NOW THAT, KOFI ANNAN IS AWAKE FROM HIS SLEEP????????? HE HAS BEEN SLEEPING SINCE HE GOT HIS FIRST UN JOB AND SINCE HIS RETIREMENT. GOOD HE IS GETTING AWAKE FROM HIS LONG SLEEP. AFRICA WILL BE DEVELOPED BY AFRICAN, THAT IS WHY IT DOES NOT MAKE SENSE FOR JOHN MAHAMA AND THE NDC TO MESS UP GHANA, FOR US TO GO BACK TO THE IMF, AFTER JOHN KUFUOR WEANED US FROM THE IMF AND LEFT A SOUND GROWING ECONOMY WITH THE DISCOVERY OF OIL TO MAKE GHANA PROGRESS AND DEVELOP, TO ITS FULL POTENTIAL AND AS THE SHINNING STAR AND A BEACON OF AFRICA.
obibini 10 years ago

Kuffuor did nothing to decolonise the economy.He left the nation still tied to the apron strings of the West.He almost gave our oil away with the nation getting only 10% revenue.To cap it all he left empty state coffers to th ...
read full comment

Kuffuor did nothing to decolonise the economy.He left the nation still tied to the apron strings of the West.He almost gave our oil away with the nation getting only 10% revenue.To cap it all he left empty state coffers to the late president Mills administration.Both the NDC and the NPP have deepened the colonization of the nation's economy.The nation cannot balance its budget without external financial support.Anyway it was not the NPP government of Kuffuor which discovered oil in Ghana.He is however credited with the commercial exploitation of the nation's oil deposits.
ISSA ABONGO 10 years ago

SO THE NDC TAKING MORE THAN US$26 BILLIONS IN LOANS AND BEGGING FOR IMF BAIL OUT ON TOP OF ALL THE MESS CAUSED, IN JUST SIX YEARS, HAS FREED GHANA FROM THE WEST???????

SO THE NDC TAKING MORE THAN US$26 BILLIONS IN LOANS AND BEGGING FOR IMF BAIL OUT ON TOP OF ALL THE MESS CAUSED, IN JUST SIX YEARS, HAS FREED GHANA FROM THE WEST???????
Abaji 10 years ago

Was it discovered by your mother?bitch

Was it discovered by your mother?bitch
Agyenim Boateng 10 years ago

Mr. Anna please l do support 100% because it is high time for Africa to reason for ourselves rather than always relying on others. Why? the mind they poses is it not the same mind we are having? Instead of revealing truth Afr ...
read full comment

Mr. Anna please l do support 100% because it is high time for Africa to reason for ourselves rather than always relying on others. Why? the mind they poses is it not the same mind we are having? Instead of revealing truth African leaders turn it into lies and think about only today and forgetting what will happen in the future.
Yaw Adu-Asare 10 years ago

A Union of West African States will protect territorial integrity of the sub-region.

A Union of West African States will protect territorial integrity of the sub-region.
KT 10 years ago

Thank you sir, that's why I fully supported Perez Mahama when he said Africans do not need handouts but partnership but it seems African leaders cannot think for themselves and help each others also. The West have problems on ...
read full comment

Thank you sir, that's why I fully supported Perez Mahama when he said Africans do not need handouts but partnership but it seems African leaders cannot think for themselves and help each others also. The West have problems on their own to solve ours. They can only do but so much but at the end of all, it's up to us Africans who need to unite to contain Africa problems because we can never solve all the problems in Africa.
Joe Turkey 10 years ago

Ghana - and Africa - can never get any problem solved by itself or any region when you have people like Jerry Rawlings, who makes sure that countries like Ghana never sees the fruits or the seeds the country sows. See the bun ...
read full comment

Ghana - and Africa - can never get any problem solved by itself or any region when you have people like Jerry Rawlings, who makes sure that countries like Ghana never sees the fruits or the seeds the country sows. See the bunch of thieves he has imposed on the country for three decades.
Abubakari Shaibu 10 years ago

All Africans need to solve they are owned problems ,I Think all western may help us,Everyone needs help before get everything ok.

All Africans need to solve they are owned problems ,I Think all western may help us,Everyone needs help before get everything ok.
Fiction 10 years ago

Gives us a break u v no benefit to ur own country have u ever visited even de northern part of ghana jst to see wat is happening over there as a prominent figure in africa all wat u does is wanting de international commun ...
read full comment

Gives us a break u v no benefit to ur own country have u ever visited even de northern part of ghana jst to see wat is happening over there as a prominent figure in africa all wat u does is wanting de international community to hear of u stupid man
MR GHANA 10 years ago

Thru out his tenure in office at the UN what benefit and impact did it have on Ghana and Africa as a whole.Let him tell us.

Thru out his tenure in office at the UN what benefit and impact did it have on Ghana and Africa as a whole.Let him tell us.
ADJEI 10 years ago

They cannot solve it, period! What we need to do as African is to find out how these western rich nations make it. Western countries make money by ensuring adequate circulation of resources. The cycle of money. Western countr ...
read full comment

They cannot solve it, period! What we need to do as African is to find out how these western rich nations make it. Western countries make money by ensuring adequate circulation of resources. The cycle of money. Western countries are also inhabited by people who sleep, wear clothes, live in houses, go to school and shit! They create incentives to enhance productivity and bring out the best in everyone. The put measures in place to check corruption of elected people. Africa is different because we cannot reason. We cannot depend on AID from these countries because that is their TAX MONEY. Where is our tax money? Charity begins at home, so Africans should behaving foolishly!
Andrew 10 years ago

Look at this stupid man Kofi Annan, are you not West Agent. You are one of the most corrupt people in the world. Oil for food programme awarding the contract to your own son, Do you think we don't know. Is people like you tha ...
read full comment

Look at this stupid man Kofi Annan, are you not West Agent. You are one of the most corrupt people in the world. Oil for food programme awarding the contract to your own son, Do you think we don't know. Is people like you that selling African for cheap to the we west. God will punish you
all.
Asembebadabi 10 years ago

If I were you I will listen to him, He know more than you do. He has interacted with the world. Wise people will listen to the fish that has learnt to live with the alligators and Crocodiles.

Money making is an opportuni ...
read full comment

If I were you I will listen to him, He know more than you do. He has interacted with the world. Wise people will listen to the fish that has learnt to live with the alligators and Crocodiles.

Money making is an opportunity once in your way must be seized. His son being in field seized the golden crown.

Grow up. You are very angry and disappointed person.
Asembebadabi 10 years ago

Kofi you have hit the nail on its head and the Centriodal axis to African problems; but there is more to it. The West should stop dictating to African leaders what they should do. We must all go back and study US history aft ...
read full comment

Kofi you have hit the nail on its head and the Centriodal axis to African problems; but there is more to it. The West should stop dictating to African leaders what they should do. We must all go back and study US history after the revolutionary war. You would learn that they went their own separate ways with UK, they came up with their own units of measures, their own legal and judicial system and they designed a living Constitution that has been adopted by many progressive countries.

Immediately after Ghana's independence, there were threats to the young country and Nkrumah has to pass PDA to curb it. It did work. Careless people like Amadou Baba was deported and a great number of non Ghanaian blood who thought they were above the law were equally deported including companies that showed no respect to our nation. The Ghana trouble makers were sent to Nsawam prisons. Ghana became quiet and peaceful. But the west did not want him to succeed so he was overthrown and PDA was one of the reasons for his overthrow.

When al quae da attacked US George Bush pass the Patriot Act which has a very close resemblance to PDA maybe a copycat with an American accent.

In the name of democracy Nigeria allowed some Northern States to adopt the Sharia as their legal system; this weakened the strength of the Nigeria's constitution which maybe fueled Boko Haram. This group is supported by the natives who giver their children as sacrificial lambs to advance the cause of Boko Haram. This means most people in Northern Nigeria do back and support Boko Haram
Yaw Asiedu 10 years ago

Why don't you run for president

Why don't you run for president
MENSAH 10 years ago

An accountant might be very perfect,being placed in the bank,or control the accounting system of a certain firm,but not necessarily,a managing director of a company.
HE MIGHT BLOW IT BIG TIME.
A carpenter can't be a tailor, ...
read full comment

An accountant might be very perfect,being placed in the bank,or control the accounting system of a certain firm,but not necessarily,a managing director of a company.
HE MIGHT BLOW IT BIG TIME.
A carpenter can't be a tailor,and a mother is never a father.
God calls people into leadership,like the president,managing directors etc.
HE GIVES THEM SOME QUALITIES LIKE:
TALENTS,GIFTS AND ABILITIES,TO COMPLETE THE TASK GIVEN.
Kofi Annan,might not have those qualities,like we think.
HE IS GOOD,A MASTER AT WHAT HE DOES,PERIOD.
He might be good as a president,but doesn't like it,because POLITICS,BEING A DIRTY GAME,can as well ruin one's hard earned reputation.
HE IS A VERY SMART GUY AND DOESN'T WANT TO COMMIT HIMSELF TO IT,AND ANYHOW.

In JOHN 2:24,25,John said this about JESUS:

But Jesus did not commit himself to them,because he knew all men and needeth not that one should testify of man,FOR HE KNEW WHAT IS IN MAN.

Many people began to follow JESUS,after they saw the signs and miracles(wonders) he did at JERUSALEM AT THE PASSOVER.
But that didn't win his admiration to committing himself to them.
HE COMMITTED HIMSELF TO THOSE WHO DESIRED HIM,LIKE THE TAX COLLECTOR(ZACCHAEUS),WHO CLIMBED A TREE TO CATCH THE GLIMPSE OF JESUS.
You see,he went to his house,whilst neglecting the chief priest,sadducees,scribes,high priest,who were always in constant conflict with Jesus.
Kofi Annan,knows what he is about,and what matters most to him,PERIOD.
HE IS A VERY SMART GUY,WHO WILL NEVER COMMIT HIMSELF ANYHOW.
Brian Williams 10 years ago

They can't and won't even if they can they should not. Corrupt leaders must be forced to learn.

They can't and won't even if they can they should not. Corrupt leaders must be forced to learn.
Yebopower 10 years ago

Mahama himself is a member of book harem.Corruption will sap all the energy from Africa.The biggest problem facing Ghana is corrupt politicians.They create tension during elections to steal more money.

Mahama himself is a member of book harem.Corruption will sap all the energy from Africa.The biggest problem facing Ghana is corrupt politicians.They create tension during elections to steal more money.
MENSAH 10 years ago

MAN'S LOVE SHALL FAIL.

You can't always rely on someone.
We have to learn how to motivate ourselves.
We will never outgrow warfare,we better learn how to fight.
The borrower will always be a slave to the lender.
We hav ...
read full comment

MAN'S LOVE SHALL FAIL.

You can't always rely on someone.
We have to learn how to motivate ourselves.
We will never outgrow warfare,we better learn how to fight.
The borrower will always be a slave to the lender.
We have to know all these,I have written above.
We can't rely on the WEST always,thinking they are going to solve all our problems for us.
They don't believe us any longer,because we are too corrupt,selfish,opportunistic,uncaring,dependent,ignorant,liars,deceitful,unpatriotic etc.
God once gave me a well constructive strategic plan,after showing me how the WEST have cheated AFRICA,for so long,in a very simple technology,we call LOCKSMITHING.
The WEST should have taught us Africans,how to repair the locks,but didn't.
WHY?
THEY WANTED US TO BUY NEW ONES,WHILST THE OLD ONES COULD BE REPAIRED,AND USED FOR SOME TIME.
Secondly,only the EUROPEAN LOCKING SYSTEMS were in AFRICA,but not the NORTH AMERICAN'S.
SO I WANTED TO FIND OUT,BY READING TO SEEK INFORMATION ON DOOR LOCKS AND LOCKSMITHING.
I could see that the AMERICAN LOCKING SYSTEMS,have something,one can replace and still be good for another 5 - 10 years or so.
So I called the GHANAIAN EMBASSY IN CANADA,and ask if NDC GOVERNMENT will help me open a school to teach LOCKSMITHING in Ghana.
Because it could have trained thousands of our youth to get access to jobs in Ghana and other parts of AFRICA.There was no LOCKSMITHING SCHOOL IN AFRICA,by then.
NDC GOVERNMENT,under ATTA MILLS,didn't comply.So I left it like that,unfortunately.
You see,what can help the nation,your government blocks it.
I explain it very well,and the TRADE COMMISSIONER OF GHANA,even praised me for my patriotic stance for Ghanians back home,but NDC blocked it.
YET THEY DO NOT CREATE ANY JOB FOR THE YOUTH,TO EASE THEIR BURDEN.
Only two companies in USA,wanted to be on board,but it has to be started first,before,they can help.
WHY?
They thought I am like the corrupt politicians and Ghanaians at home.
But I really meant business to help our nation.
The students might need a huge amount to be trained in the schools,and that's what the NDC didn't want to do.
That was the whole problem.
But that could have helped Ghana a lot,because of what the product of the money spent on the students,would have been.
THE WEST DO NOT TRUST US ANY LONGER,PERIOD.
SIMON 10 years ago

STOP THE LOOT AND FOCUS ON BETTER LEADERSHIP, GOOD RESEARCH, DEVELOPEMNT LABS TO PRODUCE VACCINES, AFRICA UNION, ECOWAS, NOTH, SOUTH AFRICA COME TOGETHER SOUTH SUDAN, ALL THE WAR FACTIONS BUILD CONCESIOUS EFFORT TO MAKE THING ...
read full comment

STOP THE LOOT AND FOCUS ON BETTER LEADERSHIP, GOOD RESEARCH, DEVELOPEMNT LABS TO PRODUCE VACCINES, AFRICA UNION, ECOWAS, NOTH, SOUTH AFRICA COME TOGETHER SOUTH SUDAN, ALL THE WAR FACTIONS BUILD CONCESIOUS EFFORT TO MAKE THINGS BETTER.
Awaaba 10 years ago

The West can help solve Africa's problems...Help us with the concept of best practices and nationalism. A corrupt has to change from within...Strict enforcement of laws not bribery to get out crimes

The West can help solve Africa's problems...Help us with the concept of best practices and nationalism. A corrupt has to change from within...Strict enforcement of laws not bribery to get out crimes
liv 10 years ago

....

....
Awaaba 10 years ago

We know how to amass wealth in a "BIG" way but have no clue how to solve problems. No medicine, no water, no electricity, no chalk in schools for teachers...the problems are humongous and seem unsolvable..A country with envia ...
read full comment

We know how to amass wealth in a "BIG" way but have no clue how to solve problems. No medicine, no water, no electricity, no chalk in schools for teachers...the problems are humongous and seem unsolvable..A country with enviable resources, Gold Timber, Oil, bauxite, manganese etc,etc..WHY?????????????
Gyatabi nuu 10 years ago

Oh Asiedu Nketia, wu ye kwasia ba paa. You and your band of NDC thieves asked and begged us Ghanaians to vote you into power to help us better our lives. But you have proved to be the most stupid educated person in Ghana. Wha ...
read full comment

Oh Asiedu Nketia, wu ye kwasia ba paa. You and your band of NDC thieves asked and begged us Ghanaians to vote you into power to help us better our lives. But you have proved to be the most stupid educated person in Ghana. What is the use of being in power if you want to accuse the previous government. You could be in opposition to do what you are doing. Being in government means you are in control and can do the right things for Ghana. Your government has been in power for close to 6 years and you keep asking very stupid questions like this. If you really think the member of previous government did something wrong and you as the current government keep asking such stupid questions, what the fuck do you expect us to do. These are your insults. You and your john mahama are the most useless and stupid leaders we have ever had. He only knows how to travel and make empty promises. Tell him to continue cos his days are numbered. Foolish people in power.
Loway 10 years ago

The west give Africa problems

The west give Africa problems
BENONY TONY AMEKUDZI, ESQ. 10 years ago

BENONY TONY AMEKUDZI, BARRISTER-AT LAW, QCL, PLC, DPA, CPA, BA (HONS) {GHANA}, MASTER OF LAWS (LLM) {NEW YORK, USA} PENDING, MEMBER, INTERNATIONAL (WORLD/GLOBAL) BAR ASSOCIATION, MEMBER, COMMONWEALTH LAWYERS ASSOCIATION, ASSO ...
read full comment

BENONY TONY AMEKUDZI, BARRISTER-AT LAW, QCL, PLC, DPA, CPA, BA (HONS) {GHANA}, MASTER OF LAWS (LLM) {NEW YORK, USA} PENDING, MEMBER, INTERNATIONAL (WORLD/GLOBAL) BAR ASSOCIATION, MEMBER, COMMONWEALTH LAWYERS ASSOCIATION, ASSOCIATE MEMBER, AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION, MEMBER, GHANA BAR ASSOCIATION

EBAA LAW CONSULT
ORCA DECO (TOKU) BUILDING, 1ST
FLOOR
P.O. BOX AN 5966
ACCRA.
GHANA.

BENONY TONY AMEKUDZI, INTERNATIONAL LAWYER photo BenonyTonyAmekudzi2.jpg
BENONY TONY AMEKUDZI, INTERNATIONAL LAWYER/LEGAL CONSULTANT
TEL: 0545758633
TO: H.E.PRESIDENT OF GHANA JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA
H.E.VICE PRESIDENT OF GHANA KWESI AMISSAH ARTHUR
CHANCELLOR OF UNIVERSITY OF GHANA & FORMER SECRETARY GENERAL OF UNITED NATIONS KOFI ANNAN
INFO TO:
H.E.DR. MR.PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA
H.E.RT.HON.PRIME MINISTER DAVID CAMERON

H.E. PRESIDENT OF EUROPEAN UNION

HON. SECRETARY OF STATE JOHN KERRY

H.E.UNITED NATIONS SECRETARY GENERAL BAN-KI MOO

DATE: SATURDAY, JANUARY 17, 2015

SUBJECT: THIS IS TO RESPECTFULLY COMMENT ON FORMER SECRETARY GENERAL OF UNITED NATIONS KOFI ANNAN PUBLICATION ON THE "GHANAWEB.COM" CAPTIONED, "KOFI ANNAN: THE WEST CAN'T SOLVE AFRICA'S PROBLEMS" AND TO RESPECTFULLY COMMENT ON THE ABOVE RELATED DICEY ISSUE/MATTER, THERETO.

THAT TO SOME EXTENT THAT WITHOUT AFRICA HERSELF DOING NOTHING BUT JUST TO SIT DOWN FOR THE WEST TO SOLVE ALL HER PROBLEMS CAN BE MISLEADING WISHFUL THINKING.

HOWEVER, AFRICA WORKING TOGETHER WITH THE WEST, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE REST OF THE WORLD WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF UNITED NATIONS THAT IT IS FIRM BELIEVED THAT AFRICA PROBLEMS CAN BE RESOLVED, THERETO.

THEREFORE, THE CATCH WORD WISDOM THINKING IS "TOGETHER" AND NOT AS SOME BELIEVED THAT "THE WEST AND AMERICA" CANNOT HELP SOLVE AFRICA PROBLEMS RESORTING TO ALL SORTS OF "FORGOTTEN THEORIES THAT HAVE BEEN RELEGATED TO THE REALMS OF DOLDRUMS".

THAT IT IS MY FIRM BELIEVED THAT AFRICA WITH THE TENACITY OF PURPOSE OF "TOGETHERNESS, HARD WORK, DEDICATION, COMMITMENT OF THE CORE VALUES OF MUTUAL RESPECT, MUTUAL TRUST, UNITY IN DIVERSITY, THE SMART STRATEGY OF INFORMATION SHARING SINCE THE WORLD IS NOW A GLOBAL INFORMATION AGE THAT HELPS TO PROMOTE BETTER UNDERSTANDING, FRIENDSHIPS, GOOD GOVERNANCE, TRANSPARENCY, INCLUSIVENESS, PEACE AND DEVELOPMENTS, THERETO.

THAT TO BUTTRESS STRONGLY THIS RELATED CASE THAT I AM RESPECTFULLY PUTTING THE FOLLOWING IN ISSUE FOR A THOROUGH AND IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS AND CRITICAL ANALYSIS TO ENABLE AFRICAN LEADERS TO A REASONABLE, LOGICAL AND DEFINITIVE CONCLUSIVE DECISIONS AND TO CONSIDER TO WORK TOGETHER WITH THE WEST AND AMERICA TO HELP AFRICA TO RESOLVE HER CHALLENGES AND PROBLEMS, THERETO.:
THE PREAMBLE

THE CONSTITUTION OF THE REBUPLIC OF GHANA 1992
IN THE NAME OF THE ALMIGHTY GOD
We the People of Ghana,

cs5 master collection mac oem
IN EXERCISE of our natural and inalienable right to establish a framework of government which shall
secure for ourselves and posterity the blessing of liberty, equality of opportunity and prosperity;
IN A SPIRIT of friendship and peace with all peoples of the world:
AND IN SOLEMN declaration and affirmation of our commitment to;
Freedom, Justice, probity and accountability;
The principle that all powers of Government spring from the sovereign Will of the people;
The Principle of Universal Adult Suffrage;
The Rule of Law;
buy cheap adobe captivate 3 oem download
The protection and preservation of fundamental Human Rights and Freedoms, Unity and Stability for our Nation
DO HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION

World Wide view of ghana and constitution
UThe Fastest FTPS anywhere, FREE Go FTP
PREAMBLE
WE THE PEOPLES OF THE UNITED NATIONS DETERMINED

to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind, and
to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small, and
to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained, and
to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom,

AND FOR THESE ENDS

to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbours, and
to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security, and
to ensure, by the acceptance of principles and the institution of methods, that armed force shall not be used, save in the common interest, and
to employ international machinery for the promotion of the economic and social advancement of all peoples,

HAVE RESOLVED TO COMBINE OUR EFFORTS TO ACCOMPLISH THESE AIMS
Accordingly, our respective Governments, through representatives assembled in the city of San Francisco, who have exhibited their full powers found to be in good and due form, have agreed to the present Charter of the United Nations and do hereby establish an international organization to be known as the United Nations.
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE POLICY TOWARDS AFRICA.

Africa: United States Policy Toward Africa: a Dossier
What is a Dossier?
Via the dossiers, we try to highlight the priorities of the US Government with regard to specific foreign policy policy issues. We provide statements by U.S. public officials, but also reports, hearings, and journal articles.
resident Barack Obama greets residents of Gorée Island, Senegal, June 27, 2013.
There are five pillars that serve as the foundation of U.S. policy toward Africa:
1) Support for democracy and the strengthening of democratic institutions on the continent, including free, fair, and transparent elections.
2) Supporting African economic growth and development.
3) Conflict prevention, mitigation, and resolution.
4) Supporting Presidential initiatives such as the Global Health Initiative, Feed the Future, and the Global Climate Change Initiative.
5) Working with African nations on transnational issues such as drug smuggling, money laundering, illicit arms, and trafficking in persons.
Read more
Major US Government Statements
A select list of major statements with policy value.

U.S. Envoy Power on International Response to Ebola Crisis
President Obama: What You Need to Know About Ebola
Term Limits Under Threat in Africa, Says State’s Thomas-Greenfield
Obama’s Videoconference with European Leaders
Obama After Meeting with Defense Officials from 21 Nations
Facts on U.S. Response to Ebola Epidemic in West Africa
Biden Outlines U.S. Foreign Policy for Rapidly Changing World
U.S. Officials on U.S. Response to Ebola Epidemic in West Africa
Biden on U.S. Foreign Policy at John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum
President Obama: America Is Leading the World

Latest US Government Statements
The most recent statements in reverse chronological order.

State Dept. on Latest U.S. Contributions to HIV/AIDS Response
Facts on U.S. Emergency Funding Request for Ebola Crisis
U.S. Envoy Power on International Response to Ebola Crisis
President Obama: What You Need to Know About Ebola
Kerry on U.S. Response to Ebola for Members of Diplomatic Corps
Secretary Kerry on World Food Day
Term Limits Under Threat in Africa, Says State’s Thomas-Greenfield
Obama’s Videoconference with European Leaders
Obama After Meeting with Defense Officials from 21 Nations
State Dept. on Bombing in Yemen

US Government Information:
02/26/14 Prospects for Peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Great Lakes Region
Oct 3, 2013 Hearing: Al-Shabaab: How Great a Threat? Source: U.S. House, Foreign Affairs Committee | Hearing
-08/02/13 African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA): Background and Reauthorization [434 Kb] Source: CRS Report for Congress
Aug. 1, 2013 The Impact of U.S. Water Programs on Global Health Source: U.S. House, Foreign Affairs Committee
-07/23/13 International Illegal Trade in Wildlife: Threats and U.S. Policy [409 Kb] Source: CRS Report for Congress
Jul. 18, 2013 Is There an African Resource Curse? Source: U.S. House, Foreign Affairs Committee
-06/18/13 Examining Prospects for Democratic Reform and Economic Recovery in Zimbabwe Source: U.S. Senate, Foreign Relations Committee
May 21, 2013 The Growing Crisis in Africa's Sahel Region Source: U.S. House, Foreign Affairs Committee
May 17, 2013 The U.S. Contribution to the Fight Against Malaria Source: U.S. House, Foreign Affairs Committee
May 7, 2013 Increasing American Jobs through Greater Exports to Africa Source: U.S. House, Foreign Affairs Committee
May 6, 2013 H. Res. 131, Concerning the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo... Source: U.S. House, Foreign Affairs Committee
-04/16/13 Examining Ongoing Conflict in Eastern Congo Source: U.S. Senate, Foreign Relations Committee
April 16, 2013 Kenya's 2013 Elections: An Effective Assistance Model? Source: U.S. House, Foreign Affairs Committee
-02/26/13 Kenya: Current Issues and U.S. Policy [412 Kb] Source: CRS Report for Congress
-11/14/12 U.S. Trade and Investment Relations with Sub-Saharan Africa and the African Growth and Opportunity Act [558 Kb] Source: CRS Report for Congress
-07/20/12 Conflict Minerals in Central Africa: U.S. and International Responses [519 Kb] Source: CRS Report for Congress
Non-US Government Information:
Kimberley's Illicit Process, World Policy Journal, Khadija Sharife and John Grobler, World Policy Journal, Winter 2013, var. pages. “Though the Kimberley Process was established to purge the international gem trade of blood diamonds, it has indirectly enriched the unscrupulous to the tune of billions of dollars. Khadija Sharife and John Grobler examine how the Kimberley Process has failed in its noble mission and discuss ways the system may be expanded and refined to curb the illicit activity that threatens to undermine its foundations.” READ MORE
Africa Attacks the International Criminal Court. Kenneth Roth, Human Rights Watch New York Review of Books, February 6, 2014, var. pages. "The court's future now rests to a large extent on the battle being waged between African leaders with little interest in justice and those Africans, including many activists and victims, who see an end to impunity for mass atrocities as essential for Africa's future. One can only hope that the welfare of African people takes precedence over the perceived interests of African leaders." READ MORE
Sudan–South Sudan: The Unfinished Tasks. Princeton N. Lyman, American Foreign Policy Interests, Nov-Dec. 2013, pp. 333-338. “The 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the Sudanese Government in Khartoum and the Sudanese People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) in the south ended a very long civil war and provided for a self-determination referendum for the people in the south. They voted to secede from Sudan to become an independent nation, South Sudan, in 2011. Nevertheless, major problems remain that threaten the peace between Sudan and South Sudan. Both countries also suffer from internal divisions that threaten stability, including the real danger that South Sudan may be entering a downhill trajectory toward state failure. The work of the international community, especially that of the United States, is far from finished.” READ MORE
A New Oil World: The Game Has Changed, but How? Africa Is Becoming a Major New Player in the New World Hydrocarbon Order. Ray Leonard, American Foreign Policy Interests, Nov-Dec. 2013, pp. 352-359. “World oil production will rise considerably during the next decade. However, the oil is found in ultra-deep-water fields and by hydraulic fracturing, both of which involve high cost. Thus, world oil prices will necessarily remain high to keep the unconventional sources operating. Most of the unconventional deep-water fields are in Africa and North America. Production from these sources will help the United States and Europe reduce their dependence on oil from the Arabian Gulf and Russia, the major low-cost conventional producers. The newer high-cost nonconventional sources will reach peak production within a decade and then will start to decline. In the longer term, abundant, less polluting natural gas apparently will be the answer to the world's energy needs. Major gas fields have been discovered recently in East Africa. In general, Africa is the focus of increasing political and investor attention as it becomes a bigger player in oil and gas.” READ MORE
Hunger, Food Security, and the African Land Grab. Richard Schiffman, Ethics and International Affairs, September 13, 2013, var. pages. “Many global analysts predict that the biggest security threats in the twenty-first century may center on disputes over water and the food that Earth’s dwindling water supply is able to produce. The greatest threat to our common future, writes Lester Brown, President of the Earth Policy Institute, ‘is no longer conflict between heavily armed superpowers, but rather spreading food shortages and rising food prices—and the political turmoil this would lead to.’” READ MORE
Africa and the United States—A Military Perspective. Laura R. Varhola & Thomas E. Sheperd, American Foreign Policy Interests, November-December 2013, pp. 325-332. Changes in the global strategic environment are increasing the importance of Africa to the United States. Terrorism, a rise in violent extremism, piracy, smuggling, and the second- and third-order effects of the Arab Spring present challenges to U.S., and indeed global, interests in Africa. The U.S. military is playing an increasingly important role in addressing these challenges and achieving U.S. aims on the continent. The purpose of this article is to provide a perspective on U.S. military approaches and how they nest within a whole-of-government approach that seeks to reinforce ongoing African security initiatives. The article concludes with challenges the U.S. military faces in effectively operating in Africa and possible ways to increase the chances of success. READ MORE
Africa and the United States of America: A New Kind of Partnership in Today's Globalized Environment? Macky Sall, American Foreign Policy Interests, November-December 2013, pp. 313-316. Sub-Saharan Africa is emerging as a rapidly growing continent that has weathered the storm of worldwide recession. The United States should no longer view Africa as an area for humanitarian initiatives to be treated solely through foreign assistance. The time has come for a new relationship based on mutual interests signified by expanding trade and investment. The United States needs to get away from the conventional wisdom that Africa is too risky. African nations are engaged in adopting necessary reforms—especially the rule of law and expedited formalities—designed to attract and reassure investors. Times have changed and U.S. thinking needs to adapt if the United States wants to take advantage of some interesting new opportunities to make money. READ MORE
The Obama Administration's Africa Policy: The First Four Years, 2009–2013. Johnnie Carson, American Foreign Policy Interests, November-December 2013, pp. 317-324. For the first time since retiring, the veteran career diplomat who coordinated U.S. policy toward Africa during President Obama's first term provides a comprehensive overview of the administration's objectives and accomplishments. While maintaining successful programs of previous administrations, President Obama is focusing on the modernization of agriculture and advancing the continent's electrification, both indispensable to sustainable development. Security cooperation has also grown in response to the growing threat of Islamic violence. Overarching all initiatives is President Obama's emphasis on democracy and good governance. READ MORE
Is American Policy toward Sub-Saharan Africa Increasingly Militarized? John Campbell, American Foreign Policy Interests, November-December 2013, pp. 346-351. Since the end of colonialism in Africa a half-century ago, U.S. policy has focused on economic development and the encouragement of transitions to democracy and good governance. The arrival of Islamic violence and terrorism in some regions of Africa after 9/11 has stimulated the steady growth of U.S. military activities in sub-Saharan countries, especially those close to the Arab world. Since 2000, military-to-military relations have expanded significantly to include counterterrorism training, intelligence sharing, and U.S. military units on the ground. The Defense Department established a separate geographic command—AFRICOM—to cover U.S. military activities in all countries on the continent except Egypt. Some observers, in both Africa and the United States, fear that the military dimension may be crowding out the core economic development and democracy-building policies. READ MORE
The New Terrorist Training Ground. Yochi Dreazen, The Atlantic, October 2013, var. pages. "Last year, al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb did something no other modern terrorist group has: conquered a broad swath of a sovereign country—Mali. Since then, despite French intervention, northern Mali has become a jihadist front, with Islamist militants flowing in from around the world. While America remains focused on threats from the Middle East and South Asia, the new face of terror is likely to be African." READ MORE
The Somali Question. Mwaura Samora, World Policy Journal, Fall 2013, var. pages. "Somalia’s civil war is spilling over into neighboring Kenya. Islamic terrorists have infiltrated the country and are responsible for several bloody attacks in Nairobi, which has in turn led to hostility toward Somalis, Kenyan journalist Mwaura Samora writes. He argues that the government must reward informants and ensure that its campaign against terrorism is not directed against peaceful Somalis in Kenya." READ MORE
Securing Development: Challenges of Economic Inclusion. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Survival, August–September 2013, pp. 121–128. "Africa is growing fast but inequality has also increased. This trend could arrest progress towards peace and security." READ MORE
Explaining the Great War in Africa: How Conflict in the Congo Became a Continental Crisis. Christopher Williams, Fletcher Forum of World Affairs, Summer 2013, pp. 81-100. "In 1998, conflict erupted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and rapidly involved nine African nations and many rebel groups. The scale of the fighting and speed of proliferation was such that Susan Rice labeled it “Africa’s first world war.” Scholars have studied the causes of World War I exhaustively and why that war engulfed Europe. Christopher Williams applies neo-realist theories used to explain the outbreak and expansion of the First World War to conflict in the DRC. He argues that the belief that “the enemy of my enemy is my friend” pervaded an insecure regional environment. This caused the pernicious logic of the security dilemma to take hold and facilitated the spread of alliance networks throughout Africa." READ MORE
Towards an “Islamic Republic of Mali?” Alex Thurston, Fletcher Forum of World Affairs, Summer 2013, var. pages. "Post-war Mali will not likely be an “Islamic State” in the sense of a state where micro-policies are explicitly based on specific references to Islamic scriptures and traditions. But Islam already has a greater public role than when the war began. As Mali emerges from conflict and re-imagines its political system, Malian politicians and outside partners hoping to restore an idealized “status quo ante” may have to acknowledge the increasingly powerful influences Muslim activists and movements wield in Malian society and politics."?? READ MORE
The Global Elite’s Favorite Strongman. Jeffrey Gettleman, The New York Times Magazine, September 4, 2013, var. pages. "Paul Kagame is an international hero for reforming Rwanda. But cleaning up a country doesn’t come without moral hazards." READ MORE
Petro-Piracy: Oil and Troubled Waters. Martin N. Murphy, Orbis, Summer 2013, pp. 424-437. West Africa piracy is the most profitable in the world. Well-organized gangs steal refined oil in contrast to Somali pirates who hold crews and ships for ransom. Like piracy elsewhere, the origins and potential solutions to West African piracy are found ashore—largely in Nigeria. This article argues that oil states in the developing world are shielded from the domestic and international pressures that can bring down their non-oil neighbors. The current international system which makes international recognition, not internal legitimacy or functionality, the key to state authority works to their benefit. It encourages those parts which are valuable to industrialized powers—and to the domestic elites who facilitate and benefit from international legitimization—to function well enough for resource extraction to continue. The security of the state generally matters less than the security of key enclaves— including ships and offshore platforms—which support elite interests. READ MORE
Africa's Long Spring. Steve McDonald, Wilson Quarterly, Winter 2013, pp. 70-80. "The article discusses democratization in Africa. Particular focus is given to developments following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. According to the author, local and international resistance to government corruption and electoral fraud has increased. It is suggested that increased economic opportunities and technology have contributed to popular support for democracy and to the resilience of democratic institutions. The governments of Mali and Senegal are also discussed." READ MORE
Making the Most of Africa’s Growth. Luc Christiaensen and Shantayanan Devarajan, Current History, May 2013, pp. 181-187. "Direct dividend transfer programs are promising as an additional instrument to reduce inequality and increase the poverty-reducing powers of economic growth in resource-rich countries."??Will Rwanda End Its Meddling in Congo? Thomas Turner, Current History, May 2013, pp. 188-194. "[T]he arrest of Ntaganda and his trial should serve as reminders to the Rwandan authorities that their interference in DRC is no longer acceptable, if it ever was." READ MORE
Perspective: Millennium Goals Miss Africa’s Progress. Charles Kenny, Current History, May 2013, pp. 195-197. "The international community has hailed impressive strides toward the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals, but Africa lags because of a late start, despite its more recent successes. Will the next set of goals avoid arbitrary and unrealistic targets?" READ MORE
Africa's Economic Boom. Shantayanan Devarajan, Wolfgang Fengler, Foreign Affairs, May/June 2013, pp. 68-81. Talk to experts, academics, or businesspeople about the economies of sub-Saharan Africa and you are likely to hear one of two narratives. The first is optimistic: Africa's moment is just around the corner, or has already arrived. Reasons for hope abound. Despite the global economic crisis, the region's GDP has grown rapidly, averaging almost five percent a year since 2000, and is expected to rise even faster in the years ahead. Many countries, not just the resource-rich ones, have participated in the boom: indeed, 20 states in sub-Saharan Africa that do not produce oil managed average GDP growth rates of four percent or higher between 1998 and 2008. Meanwhile, the region has begun attracting serious amounts of private capital; at $50 billion a year, such flows now exceed foreign aid. READ MORE
Al Qaeda in Africa: The Creeping Menace to Sub-Sahara's 500 Million Muslims. Herman J. Cohen, American Foreign Policy Interests, Spring 2013, pp. 63-69. "Since 2005, Al Qaeda has co-opted as franchises three armed and violent African Islamist movements that had established footholds in both East and West Africa. These movements have been able to exploit anarchy, instability, hopeless poverty, corruption, and ethnic exclusion to impose medieval Islamic governance that sub-Saharan Africans reject but cannot defeat without outside help. The countries currently directly affected are Somalia, Mali, and Nigeria. African governments understand the dangers to their sovereignty presented by Al Qaeda affiliates and have demonstrated determination to do whatever is necessary to stamp them out. All African governments welcome American assistance in their resistance to Islamist extremism, but the United States needs to be careful about keeping its military footprint in Africa as small as possible." READ MORE
A Surprising Little War: First Lessons of Mali. François Heisbourg, Survival, April 2013, pp. 7-18. "The war in Mali broke out on 11 January 2013 in the form of an out-of-theblue French offensive against two armed columns heading towards Bamako, the country's capital. During the following weeks, a brigade-sized French force, accompanied by a similar number of soldiers from West African countries, reclaimed an area the size of Texas from jihadist groups, which in spring 2012 proclaimed to have set up an independent territory called Azawad in the northern 60% of Mali. Although the war in Mali was not a blitzkrieg, as claimed by some, in some ways it can be considered a harbinger of postmodern conflict.The war may yet slide into a strategic dead end reminiscent of Iraq and Afghanistan, but such a fate is not preordained." READ MORE
Climate Change and Insecurity: Mapping Vulnerability in Africa. Joshua W. Busby, Todd G. Smith, Kaiba L. White, Shawn M. Strange, International Security, Spring 2013, pp. 132-172. [...] Which parts of Africa are most vulnerable to the security consequences of climate change? The challenges posed by climate change are not uniformly distributed within the continent. To identify areas of security vulnerability and to prioritize limited resources, one cannot say “Ethiopia is vulnerable” without explaining which parts of Ethiopia are particularly vulnerable and why. Recognizing where physical exposure to climate change conjoins with other dimensions of vulnerability is an important area for research with significant policy relevance. With information on which parts of the continent are most vulnerable to climate change, Africans can prioritize their scarce resources, and the international community can better target adaptation assistance. Climate vulnerability studies are becoming increasingly important as countries recognize that the findings could have significant implications for resource allocation. READ MORE
Own the Goals. John W. McArthur. Foreign Affairs, March/April 2013, var. pages. "Since their inception in 2000, The Millennium Development Goals have revolutionized the global aid business, using specific targets to help mobilize and guide development efforts. They have encouraged world leaders to tackle multiple dimensions of poverty simultaneously and provided a standard for judging performance. As their 2015 expiration looms, the time has come to bank those successes and focus on what comes next." READ MORE
Anatomy: African Terrorism. Carlo Davis, World Policy Journal, Winter 2012/2013, var. pages. “Nigeria is under relentless attack from Boko Haram, a homegrown extremist militia. World Policy Journal outlines the terrorist organization’s support networks, exposing what’s needed to end Boko Haram’s brutal campaign to impose sharia law on Africa’s most populous nation.” READ MORE
From Massacres to Miracles: A Conversation with Paul Kagame, World Policy Journal, Winter 2012/2013, var. pages. “Rwanda’s president, Paul Kagame, sits down with World Policy Journal and denies any wrongdoing in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo, despite mounting evidence of Rwandan involvement. He spells out how his country is overcoming the scars of genocide, why Rwanda’s parliament has the highest percentage of women in the world, and how a developing nation can wean itself from foreign aid.” READ MORE
Turkey Shocks Africa. Julia Harte, World Policy Journal, Winter 2012/2013, var. pages. “Why do Somalis name roads and babies after Turkey’s prime minister? No country had succeeded in helping Somalia until Turkey came along, writes Julia Harte. With its doctrine of “virtuous power,” Turkey is proving that a strategy of personal engagement—including scholarships, business-to-business contacts, and high-level political visits—can be an effective aid model. Somalia also provides Turkey a toehold in Africa, setting up the onetime heart of the Ottoman Empire to be a future player in the region.” READ MORE
Disclaimer:
The materials on this site, especially those from sources outside the U.S. Government, should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein or as official U.S. policy. Non-U.S. Government sources available on this site include, but are not limited to, comments, articles, webblogs, forum comments, audio files and links to external websites. View our disclaimer or privacy notices for more information.
Subscribe to Dossier
Subscribe to this dossier's RSS feed
Africa video
No video found.
Dossiers in the picture
View of Independence Square in Kyiv, Ukraine on February 23, 2014 - AP Photo.
Ukraine

Syria: Damascus Areas of Influence and Areas Reportedly Affected by 21 August Ch
Syria
President Obama Charts a New Course on Cuba
Share
Share this
Now on Twitter @usembbrussels
Join our online communities
Stay tuned with US Policy.be:

EU Strategy for Africa
The Strategy for Africa is the European Union's response to the challenge of getting Africa back on the track of sustainable development and of meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015. As a long-standing partner and close neighbour the EU is well placed to help Africa provide a decisive boost to this process.
ACT
Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament and the European Economic and Social Committee of 12 October 2005 - EU Strategy for Europe: Towards a Euro-African pact to accelerate Africa’s development [COM(2005) 489 final – Not published in the Official Journal].
SUMMARY
The EU Strategy for Africa outlines a framework of action for all EU Member States aimed at supporting Africa’s efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In recent years considerable progress has been recorded in Africa, particularly as regards governance and economic growth. The African Union (AU), the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and international organisations have equipped Africa with political and economic roadmaps and a vision for the future. Nevertheless, Africa’s road towards sustainable development remains long.
A very diverse reality
Africa comprises different political regimes, historical experience and cultural, religious, economic and geographical contexts. Furthermore, areas of insecurity and centres of stability coexist. Some African countries have experienced, or are experiencing, sustained periods of peace, security, economic and political stability and democratic participation, while others remain mired in long-term conflict. Heightened instability is linked to a rise in transnational organised crime, resulting in an increased threat of drugs trafficking and consumption, human trafficking, smuggling of natural resources and arms trafficking.
Nevertheless, there is no shortage of growth factors. Sustainable exploitation of natural resources, agricultural development and investment in human resources create a sound investment climate. A number of African countries possess considerable natural resources which permit genuine sustainable development. Commodity-dependent African economies can reduce their vulnerability by acting against the long-term downward trend in prices and against fluctuations in world prices.
A fundamental driver of growth is a reliable and attractive investment climate. A country’s stability and level of governance, transparency, dialogue with the national and international business community, and regional integration are all contributing factors in economic development. New external players, such as Brazil, India and China, are increasingly attracted by Africa’s economic potential, while Africa’s longer-established partners, such as the United States, Japan and Russia, are showing renewed interest in the continent.
In these regions, interconnection is crucial to allowing people easier market access and reducing the costs of doing business. A regional integration process must therefore be developed to strengthen Africa's position in the world economy.
Social dynamics
Human development also presents a highly varied picture. While several African countries have recorded impressive economic growth, a highly unequal distribution of income often prevents this growth from having a positive impact on poverty levels.
Job creation remains one of the major challenges for poverty reduction and social development, in particular for women and ethnic minorities. The employment situation is closely linked to literacy rates, which are gradually improving. Individuals’ well-being is also dependent on health and hygiene conditions. In particular, the HIV/AIDS pandemic is a heavy burden on many African countries.
Environmental dynamics
The African continent is environmentally very diverse. Climate change will further increase the strain on water resources, affect biodiversity and human health, worsen food security and increase desertification. Flooding and drought are common and are set to increase as a result of climate change, while early-warning systems are inadequate and disaster management is weak. Climate change adaptation is therefore an urgent necessity for Africa’s development.
The desertification process affects almost half of the African continent, the worst-affected areas being located along desert margins. Furthermore, Africa’s renewable water resources fall below the world average and several countries suffer water stress or scarcity. Africa also has 17% of the world’s forests, and deforestation, both for commercial timber and to make room for agriculture, is therefore a major concern.
The principles of the EU-Africa relations
Over the last few decades, the EU has concluded an increasing number of agreements with Africa, including the Lomé Conventions, entered into with the Member States of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Countries (ACP) Group and since replaced by the 2000 Cotonou Agreement, the South Africa Agreements and the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership and Association Agreement.
So now is the time to develop the basic principles that govern the relationship between Africa and the EU. This Communication envisages three principles:

equality, based on mutual recognition and respect for institutions and the definition of mutual collective interests;
partnership, i.e. developing links based on political and commercial cooperation;
ownership, i.e. strategies and development policies being country-owned and not imposed from the outside.

The EU should engage with Africa’s three levels of governance – national, regional and continental – on the basis of the principle of subsidiarity: only matters which would be dealt with less effectively at a lower level should be reserved for a higher level of governance. The EU should enhance intra-African solidarity between these three levels and raise dialogue with the African continent as a whole to the highest political level.
The EU’s response strategy
The EU should strengthen its support in the areas considered prerequisites for attaining the MDGs (peace, security, good governance), areas that create a favourable economic environment for growth, trade and interconnection and areas targeting social cohesion and environment.
The EU will step up its efforts to foster peace and security by means of a wide range of actions, ranging from the support for African peace operations to a comprehensive approach to conflict prevention addressing the root causes of violent conflict. These actions also target cooperation in the fight against terrorism and the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, as well as support for regional and national strategies for disarmament, demobilisation, reintegration and reinsertion in order to contribute to the reintegration of ex?combatants – including child soldiers – and stabilisation of post-conflict situations.
Despite the progress made in Africa, the road towards good governance remains long. With a view to reforming the State, the EU will work towards building effective and credible central institutions, to which end it will define a Governance Initiative in support of the African Peer Review Mechanism. It will reinforce respect for human rights and democracy, develop local capacity and encourage the decentralisation process, with the aim of promoting democracy and development. It will also encourage African countries to sign and implement the main international instruments of crime prevention.
In order to contribute to the effective reduction of poverty across Africa, the EU will stimulate rapid and broad-based economic growth by supporting macroeconomic stability and assisting in the creation of integrated regional markets. Limited access to transport and communication services, water and sanitation, and energy constrains economic growth. The Commission therefore proposes to establish an EU-Africa Partnership for Infrastructure. Transport policies must also be harmonised through support to the Sub-Saharan Africa Transport Programme and the energy infrastructure must be developed along with integrated water management for its improvement in trans-boundary river basins.
When we consider that 40% of all Africans survive on less than one dollar a day, the EU must contribute to the establishment of social safety for the most vulnerable. In this context, it will support education, access to knowledge and transfer of know-how as a lifelong process going beyond primary education, and promote access to water supply, sanitation and energy, as well as the improvement of health infrastructures and the provision of essential health services.
Particular attention will be paid to employment policies, the promotion of cultural diversity and turning migration into a positive force in the development process.
As regards the environment, the EU’s activities will include the management of environmental diversity, the improvement of sustainable land management to halt desertification, the conservation of biodiversity, limitation of the effects of climate change and support for the sound management of chemicals.
Despite being the main donor to Africa, the EU should increase its financing substantially. In June 2005 the EU committed itself collectively to increase official aid to 0.56% of gross national income (GNI) by 2010 and to 0.7% by 2015. In particular, some €4 billion will be available annually for Sub-Saharan Africa and this Strategy for Africa should constitute the reference framework for the programmes and action under the 10th European Development Fund (EDF).
This Strategy was adopted by the European Council of 15 and 16 December 2005.
RELATED ACTS
Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council - From Cairo to Lisbon – The EU-Africa Strategic Partnership [COM(2007) 357 final – Not published in the Official Journal].
Last updated: 19.05.2008
Legal notice | About this site | Se
Can Africa claim the 21st century? : overview : Can Africa claim the 21st century? (English)
Abstract

Major changes are needed if Africans and their children are to claim the 21st century. With the rapidly growing population, 5 percent annual growth is needed simply to keep the number of poor from rising. Halving severe poverty by 2015 will require annual growth of more than 7 percent, along with a more equitable distribution of income. Trends in Africa will need to change radically for a catch-up process to materialize. This will require determined leadership within Africa. It will require better governance--developing stable and representative constitutional arrangements, implementing the rule of law, managing resources transparently, and delivering services effectively to communities and firms. It will require greater investment in Africa ' s people as well as measures that encourage private investment in infrastructure and production. And it will require better support--and perhaps more support--from the international development community. In facing these challenges, Africa has enormous potential--including the potential of its women, who now provide more than half of the region ' s labor but lack equal access to education and factors of production. This overview capsulizes the main report, no. 20469, which proposes strategies for ushering in self-reinforcing processes of economic, political, and social development, and proposes progress on four fronts: improving governance and resolving conflict, investing in people, increasing competitiveness and diversifying economies, and reducing aid dependence and debt and strengthening partnerships. The report brings together the recent body of work--particularly that emanating from Africa itself--to show how some African countries are approaching common issues.

IN CONCLUSION THEREFORE, IT IS MY RESPECTFUL AND CANDID SUBMISSION AND OPINION THAT WITH AFRICA TENACITY OF PURPOSE OF HARD WORK, DEDICATION, COMMITMENT TO WORK TOGETHER WITH THE WEST AND AMERICA AS CLEARLY SHOWN ABOVE OF THE GOODWILL STRATEGIC POLICIES THE EUROPEAN UNION AND UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ADOPTED TOWARDS AFRICA CLEARLY ATTESTED TO THE FACT THAT IT WILL BE TRAVESTY FOR AFRICA TO TURN AWAY FROM AFRICA PARTNERS , ALLIES AND GOOD FRIENDS, AMERICA AND EUROPEAN UNION.

THIS IS BECAUSE THEY ADOPTED GOOD, PRAGMATIC AND LOGICAL POLICIES TOWARDS AFRICA THAT CAN CLEARLY HELP AFRICA TO SOLVE HER PROBLEMS, THERETO.

THAT IT IS NOW TIME FOR AFRICA "TO WAKE UP FROM IGNORANCE, POVERTY ,HUNGER AND DISEASE" TO WORK TOGETHER WITH AFRICA GOOD PARTNERS, ALLIES AND FRIENDS TO HELP PROMOTE THE QUALITY GOOD OF THE PEOPLE".

THAT TO QUOTE H.E.DR.MR.PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, "TOGETHER WE CAN---AND TOGETHER WE WILL DO BIG THINGS---".

THAT AFRICA CAN OVER COME HER PROBLEMS BY ADOPTING SMART DIPLOMATIC AND FOREIGN RELATIONS STRATEGY TO HELP IN INFORMATION SHARING THAT PROMOTES BETTER UNDERSTANDING, FRIENDSHIP, GOOD GOVERNANCE, TRANSPARENCY, INCLUSIVENESS, PEACE AND DEVELOPMENTS.

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED.

GOD BLESS GHANA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,AFRICAN-UNION, EUROPEAN UNION AND UNITED NATIONS.

VERY TRULY YOURS,

BENONY TONY AMEKUDZI

INTERNATIONAL LAWYER/LEGAL CONSULTANT

General News of Saturday, 17 January 2015

Source: Starrfmonline.com
Kofi Annan: The West can’t solve Africa's problems

« Prev
Next »

Kofi Annan Former UN SG

Former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan has said Africa should not expect the West to solve the Continent’s problems.

The Ghanaian diplomat told the BBC recently that the West can only help to some extent but cannot solve the Continent’s problems.

Responding to a recent international outpouring of solidarity with French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, following an attack on its office by an Islamist militant group, which led to the killing of 12 journalists, vis-à-vis the apparent silence of the international community on the killing of hundreds of Nigerians in Baga by Islamist militant group Boko Haram, a few days earlier, Mr Annan said: “I think we have to be realistic, people always pay more attention to dangers which are immediate to them and threaten all of them.”

“The nature of that attack in Paris caused lots of tension in Europe. Other cities were saying: ‘What’s next, who is next?’ So there was a strong sense of that solidarity, with everybody coming together to make their position known,” Annan observed.

In his view, Africans should also begin showing such support to each other rather than expecting the international community to come solve their problems for them.

“What I wish is that we also, on this continent sometimes we show the same solidarity in support of each other to begin with and then expect the international community to come in.

“They can help, but they cannot solve the problems for us,” Annan stressed.

Boko Haram, which has a membership of between 6,000 and 8,000, was formed in 2002. It has killed thousands of Nigerian and caused the displacement of about 1.5 million people.

It recently, on January 3, 2015, killed, according to local reports, close to 2,000 people at Baga.

Nigeria’s defence ministry has, however, estimated the number of people killed to be not more than 150.

The terrorist group sacked the entire town during the attack. Some survivors fled to neighbouring Chad.

Last weekend, at least 23 people were killed by three female suicide bombers, one reported to be 10 years old.

In April 2014, the group kidnapped more than 270 schoolgirls in a village called Chibok.

Though some of the girls escaped to freedom, a lot more of them are still in captivity.

Apart from Chibok, several schools have been burnt, and students burnt alive in towns and areas in the northeastern part of Nigeria by the terrorist group which is averse to any form of Western education.

For more news go to Starrfmonline.com.
Comments:

59 Comments

Welcome,

SIGN IN

Welcome,

RESET PASSWORD

Hello,

Terms and conditions

REGISTER

Kofi Annan: The West can’t solve Africa's problems

Read Comments .st0{display:none;fill:#14BDD3;} .st1{display:none;} .st2{display:inline;fill:#FC0F0F;} .st3{display:inline;fill:#FFFFFF;} .st4{display:inline;fill:none;stroke:#000000;stroke-width:6;stroke-miterlimit:10;} Comments (59)

Read Comments Comments (59)