Written By: Tosin Ajogbeje/ Date: 2021/01/23
January 20 was a historic day in the U.S. Kamala Harris made history as the first woman and first black, and South Asian American to serve as US vice-president. President Biden also made history as the oldest president to assume the office. When the announcement was made about Biden’s win, a fair amount of plaudits were shown around the world. Starting from the fact that Biden promised to be different, and reverse some of Trump’s more controversial policies, including climate change and work closely with America’s allies. As I reflect on this new normal, I mull over what key takeaways Africa can learn from. A continent enriched with immeasurable affluence, but remains the centre of development concerns. January 6 caused a huge stir in the U.S. because this time the world was really watching an unanticipated turmoil. The chaos at the Capitol building, Washington DC was unprecedented, especially when rioters stormed the building. These “rioters” or rather the “insurrectionists” invaded the building, breaking windows, pointing guns and demolishing memorabilia and invading desks of legislators.
The intention was to breach the congressional process of formally certifying president-elect Joe Biden’s electoral victory over Trump. However, the senators and representatives were safely evacuated from the legislative floors. The question is what can developing countries, especially Africa learn from these security measures taken to protect its citizens and avoid future violent attacks. Most importantly, can African countries conduct fair elections and transfer power peacefully without violent attacks? Of course, a utopian society does not exist. I mean do you know of any? Africa is home to many of the world’s longest-ruling leaders. “President for Life” has become the new norm. Many African leaders stay in power for three or more terms, an overtime stay I must say. These insensitive actions end up causing a ripple effect, spurring corruption, instability and economic stagnation. Ongoing discussions about whether Africa needs charity has been brought up repeatedly and mostly the effectiveness of foreign aid in strengthening the economic state of the continent. But the sane truth is that Africa has the potential to develop a structured and inclusive society that is safe and tolerant to all people.
Learning from the recent occurrences in the US and the violent attacks that took place at the Capitol Hill, this tells us that “problems are everywhere”. It takes a free and fair state to secure the impending problems at least at the nick of time. Some countries in Africa have witnessed a similar parliament breach, like Nigeria and Kenya. In 2018, MPs engaged in fist fights and scuffles over anti-terrorism laws, and in Kenya altercations broke out in parliament in 2014. Most political leaders in Africa have a strong hold on political power and channel economic resources to benefit themselves and their allies. The point here is that Africa’s global presence in the world is unparalleled. The main issue in Africa is that, leaders want to be served, but desist from serving the people. Electing great leaders with exceptional character and skills is critical to Africa’s development, and for this reason effective leadership development systems should be institutionalized. Most citizens in African countries have leadership potential, and can further curb bad governance structures, poverty, corruption and religious bias.
Additionally, when Biden decided to select Kamala Harris as the first woman VP, people celebrated and others protested nationwide. In the midst of all of this, her incredible story became the topic of discussion. Kamala winning the VP seat is indeed a symbolic moment in history. Maybe, at some point in the future, it won’t be a surprise for a woman to take the lead and serve her country. Kamala Harris became the first woman, Black and South Asian to serve as California’s attorney general from 2011 to 2017. Kamala Harris is evidently qualified for this job. Gender equality around the world is still a major concern. In Africa, discriminatory laws and institutions still limit women’s ability to run for office. Structural barriers and capacity gaps also force women to avoid running for office, especially with lack of education, and financial resources to enable them become effective leaders. The African continent is one of the most populous on earth, and could use “the powerful influence of a woman” to lead inclusive decisions. Research claims that Africa has the highest level of multilingualism in the world, with the largest population of youth, and the fact that women account for approximately half of the population of the continent. But the truth is that women hardly participate in decision-making activities and often bear the burden of poverty across Africa. For several years many women empowerment missionaries and groups have worked together to advocate for the visibility of women’s involvement in leadership roles in Africa, but gender discrimination still prevails. Kamala’s new position is highly significant for many reasons and should not be scorned. Africa needs to re-evaluate its leadership framework and invest more resources in creating a platform for women to lead. When women are involved in decision-making processes in Africa, achieving sustainable development goals can be attainable. It is important to empower all women to influence policies and strategies because women are also part of the solution to the problems faced across Africa. America just elected one of the most powerful women on the planet- it is safe to say that Kamala represents a powerhouse, and has created an easier pathway for the generation of women following her.
There was a time in history when Black people didn’t have the right to vote, but now things have changed. America is far from perfect, especially because of racism and the inhumane suppression of activists protesting against systemic racism. But at this present moment, the willingness of America to acknowledge diversity and the need for advancement in the society is admirable. Africa has the full capacity to honor the civil liberty of all people in the continent. The continent’s citizenry should have a level of political awareness and public participation in societal affairs. Adopting a fair electoral process could help lessen conflicts and enhance citizen confidence in the moral context. Africa could be a global leader today, if there is a concerted effort to defuse the autocratic system it embraces, and foster a culture that is dedicated to empowering all people.
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