MDGs: Bolivia Lights the Way

Published on 21st September 2010

Bolivian President Evo Morales’ sentiments during the high level UN MDG summit ought to spur a rethink of the goals. He observed that the goals can’t be realised in the current skewed economic order that sees developed nations pilfer; externalize and patronize developing nations’ resources. He then urged developed nations to put an end to this enslaving order.

President Evo Morales’ remarks are a pointer to developing nations that they ought to take charge of their development. His remark that "Without the IMF, we're better off than we were before," is an indictment to leaders in developing nations who have embraced the notion that their nations can not develop without the intervention of the Bretton Woods institutions.

The World Bank for example, has declared that Sub-Saharan Africa, a continent with immense natural resource riches, will not hit the 2015 MDGs target. Africa ought to craft homegrown benchmarks and strategies of attaining MDGs. Blaming developed nations for not honouring their commitments - though soothing - will not change the continent’s lot. The developed world -already grappling with the effects of the global recession- is setting its house in order. It will not venture into altruistic undertakings that endanger the welfare of its taxpayers.

Africa ought to create an environment and structures that will free the economic potential of its population. It should only permit external intervention that enables its people break away from the cycle of dependency and take charge of their destiny. An economically empowered people will address poverty; hunger; education; health and environment needs among others.


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