A multi-polar world is just but a lesser evil unless Africa’s leadership and people seize the current competing interests to position the continent as a major player in the global economy. Recall, it was a multi-national world that scrambled for Africa. Therefore, an increase in global spheres of influence does not leave Africa any safer!
Africa is not only under-represented in global decision making, but it also operates on the terms of developed nations. The continent is trapped in a skewed global market system that only relegates it to produce raw materials for export but forbids it to engage in value added activity. Now that we know it, and can organize and participate in Third World Country Summits, do we need further prodding?
Developed countries underwent revolutions that positively changed their economy. The agricultural revolution saw the use of inputs and supplies to boost production. The industrial revolution saw inventions of new machinery that improved efficiency and replaced manual labor. The information revolution has created a digital economy where online transactions such as electronic learning, tele-medicine, e-businesses and virtual offices (among others) are all possible. Africa need not re-invent the wheel as results of the previous revolutions are already available to it.
Due to long-term neglect of the agricultural sector, Africa spends $19 billion a year to import food. Corruption alone costs Africa over $148 billion" annually. The informal sector, which transacts most business, is neglected. The continent easily trades with foreign nations but imposes barriers on its internal market. Africa should realize that the key to its development rests within itself - the African people. Priority must be in investing in people so that they can in turn transform Africa's resources into wealth.
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