We asked the Kubatana community to share their reflections on what Africa Day means to them – here is some of what we got …
Africa day symbolises unity of African countries, which was initiated by great leaders such as Nyerere and Nkurumah although it is now characterised by conflicts, war and despotic leaders. – Clive
It continues to sicken thinking minds that new civil conflicts are prevalent. The mere fact that only four African countries consider Africa day, as a public holiday is indicative of strained African relations! Gross violation of human rights, poor governance, corruption and lack of political will all continue to ridicule the maxim of Africa day. Africa day that never was! – Raymond
What else would it mean? It’s just another passing day for Africans. Despite numerous pledges and noises made by African states in the African Union, no solidarity is shown when it comes to the suffering of fellow states. There is pretence of Brotherhood when in actual fact it’s, each man for himself and God shine on us all! – Shephard
African Day is a great day for each and every African, and those who wish the continent the greatest of success! This day should always open our eyes and give us the joy of fighting for what we are, who we are and what we believe in. Together as Africans we fought the out-side common enemy – colonialism but now we are fighting the enemy within – poverty, racism, xenophobia, ethnicity, civil wars, authoritarian regimes, human rights abuses, etc… It has been more than a decade since OAU, now African Union was formed but the enemy within us is still strong! The enemy within has divided Africans; it has brought in another strong enemy – Neo-colonialism. It has widened the economic gaps between the poor and the rich. My fellow Africans, is this what we fought for in the name of liberation? How liberated are we as Africans? I believe this day should open up our minds and eyes, to reflect on these issues as Africans. What are we celebrating? Are we celebrating the formation of OAU as an organisation or the purpose why it was formed? Either way, what is important is for us to remember that we need to develop strategies of defeating the enemy within. Let us help the OAU/AU in defeating the common enemy. – Twambi
Though we speak different languages and live in different countries, the big issue is unity. Black or white we should share. That’s Africa day for to me. – Kenneth
It was supposed to mean a time to reflect on peace, food security and technological advancement on the continent. Unfortunately, we are always chewing our humble pie where conflicts are the order of the day, and corruption is at centre stage. Basically the meaning is getting to be negative for us the youths. – Francis
