Whether you agree with me or not, one of the greatest forces of nature is that of the human spirit. Indeed, many instances have proven that a resolute spirit can tackle issues head-on in spite of whatever trials or tribulations stand in the way. When Barack Obama first showed America a glimpse of his worldview back in 2004, my instinct fell for his ideals like a pretty girl swooning on a first date.
I was not surprised when he later ran for President of the United States, nor by the concerted attempts by the western media to rubbish his chances. And as we know now, Obama subsequently came, saw and conquered.
So far, only Americans can truly say if Obama is doing his best for them, but when it comes to global issues he seems to be on the right track. His judgment has endeared him to many people who have spent years crying against various injustices meted out by the US and their allies.
Obama’s influence has been felt in almost all corners of the world – in fact it seems the only area waiting for him is Africa. While he fired the first salvo at some African leaders at the G8 summit in Italy over bribery allegations, we Africans demand more than words. It is important for the world to know that we are not only supporting Obama because of his African roots; we are doing it because his position can kick-start the march towards laying the corner stone of our dream.
It’s a dream in which our people shall be able to elect their leaders in a healthy and competitive process, one that will not see us as perpetual beggars of aid when our resources are being stolen. A dream in which our people shall no longer be deported by those who once came to our land without visas and became landlords to the detriment of their hosts. We see in our dream a level playing field.
This is why we are energised and motivated that Obama is a good thing for Africa. We are tired of the hypocrites who have helped plunder the continent of its human and material resources. Since colonial times, Africa has been continuously pillaged while millions perish in fratricidal wars, sponsored (or left to continue unabated) by foreign hawks with the view of gaining access to our mineral wealth.
So what do we expect from Obama’s visit to Ghana? I think Africans are looking forward to a lambasting of their leaders. Obama is the only person who has the moral audacity to tell these good-for-nothing crooks that the game is up.
We expect a fair partnership in trade and commerce instead of loans, grants and gifts meant to derail our progress. Africa is tired of pledges from countries who unashamedly sing their songs for the continent while teaching their young generation many ills about us. Obama has an obligation to treat us fairly where his predecessors have failed.
And he can start in the progressive Ghana: trade links should be widened and supported as an encouragement for the people’s zeal for democracy and stability. The country’s desire to blaze the trail for a fair electoral process throughout Africa deserves kudos – and opportunities for its people.
I also hope that the visit will force the mainstream media to show Africa in a more accurate light, to let the world see the reality behind the images of starvation, disease and violent conflict.
It is imperative that Africa is given its rightful chance to succeed. Alhough I accept that an economic El Dorado is not going to spring from nowhere, a comprehensive plan without the usual bottlenecks placed by the powers-that-be would be a good step in the right direction.
Ukachukwu Okorie is originally from Nigeria. Visit his website at www.olumouka.com
