The circumstances surrounding the allegation that a France based charity, Zoe’s Ark, was to fly 103 African children from Darfur for adoption are disturbing. The departure of the children, the first of 1,000 that the charity had aimed to ‘save’ from the war-ravaged region of Sudan was allegedly foiled by the Chadian police.

Taking Africans overseas ought to be encouraged as besides increasing their exposure, it will also enable them draw from new experiences, consequently learning how the world works. However, France is a devout opponent of black migrants on European soil and was party to a European Union resolution that African governments be aided to contain their populations. Can she be trusted with African children?

What message is the transaction sending? That Africa is unfit for human habitation? That Europe is Africa’s salvation? That African parents cannot take care of their children? That Africa is a land of poverty? Will Zoe’s Ark transport the 201 million Africans facing extreme hunger to Europe?

Africa must vehemently resist this humiliation. If Zoe’s Ark is serious on the African plight, let it press Europe to open its borders to African migrants, grant African professionals jobs without discrimination, drop its barriers against African goods and allow Africa to export finished products. It should prevail upon Europe to stop exporting its precautionary wars to Africa which are threatening to distract trade in the name of ‘carbon miles’ and fear of chemicals.

Africa must resist a culture that runs away from problems and embrace one that entails facing the problems and overcoming them. Africa must move with speed and address causes to her negative predicament and stop burying her head in sand.