Industrialization advocate and Boardroom Governance Expert, Professor Douglas Boateng has revealed that the absence of continuity in the African vision for development is what stifles the bright future of the continent.
Professor Boateng made his assertions in a formal engagement with Her Excellency Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma in Johannesburg, confronting the reality of Africa’s development status. He noted that development goes beyond a theory but rather a synergistic combination of frameworks that will play key roles in implementing what has been outlined by leaders. “Development is not a theory; it is logistics., it is ports, it is accountability. These frameworks are not decorative; they are tools. And tools must be used.” he stated.
Similar sentiments of Africa’s stymied goals were shared by Dr. Dlamini-Zuma who called for a recalibration of the African mindset. She noted that the absence of active participation by Africa’s youth on account of the acceptance of Africa as wealthy but incapable of providing a sustainable future for Africans. ” Africa’s youth must no longer be passive observers of change. They must become the backbone of development, using their skills, creativity, innovation, and technology to drive progress across sectors. Equally urgent is the need to decolonise the African mindset. Africa must reclaim its narrative, tell its own stories, and write its own history. Only by doing so can the continent begin to reverse the tragic paradox of a wealthy Africa and impoverished Africans. ”
Professor Boateng acknowledged the existence of development plans and interconnected priorities which include the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), inclusive industrialization, rural economic transformation, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), and the Agenda 2063 blueprint among others. These plans, he reiterated must be deeply rooted in continuity to ensure their completion and sustainable benefit to all Africans. “Africa is not short on vision,” Professor Boateng concluded. “It is short on continuity. The continent must master consistency to break mediocrity’s hold.”
By: Kobina Baidoo
