In 50 years, I fervently wish that my children – born in Senegal, will know more about Zimbabwe or Tanzania than about the United States or Europe. I hope they will choose to speak Kiswahili or Peul rather than Spanish or Italian as a third language. I would like to see the opportunities, they will have, be bestowed on children from less privileged background as well. More importantly, I wish to witness the moment Africans will realize that before we became Christians or Muslims, we were Africans. And rather than “develop” like the West or China, we should develop like Africans – The African model should naturally emerge. The basis of such a model should be that every single person born in Africa must be healthy, educated, well fed, be allowed to dream and to choose his or her own destiny. Instead of suppressing our cultural backgrounds, this model should enhance and build upon them the foundation of a great future for our children, and those who will come after them. Our leaders will fight for these ideologies as the true representatives of the people.
I strongly believe that there will be no development without a strong political will. And there will be no economic miracle without an outstanding leadership and bold ideas. We desperately need bold ideas at this point. The good news is that we already possess the assets we will need for the miracle to happen, Afropolitans and more specifically women.
The term “Afropolitan” has become more and more controversial recently. Some people have begun to see its “evil side”. By using it here, I am not trying to be controversial. If Afropolitan refers to Africans from different backgrounds, experiences and identities, then I will gladly used it to illustrate my point.
I strongly believe that Africa’s major asset is its women. We have seen more than 50 years of male leadership in Africa. It’s high time our society made some changes in the way it educates, promotes, grooms and hires women.
Women have always been at the forefront of African societies by working to build the various communities, and, by educating the men that assume the various leadership positions. We, women, occupy an essential part in the society and we should start taking advantage of it.
In 50 years, I would like to see a major paradigm shift in Africa. I am not talking about a feminism movement. Some ethnic groups or tribes in Africa have been matriarchal for centuries. This is definitely not about speaking up for women or affirmative actions. This is more about survival and a more lasting and effective change for the benefits of the African Society.
And finally, we should be the change we are seeking. Not the next generation or the one that will come after that. Our generation! The change should start NOW!
Where do you see African women in 50 years?