Chairperson, Africa Day should be an occasion to celebrate our glorious continent, to take stock of what we have achieved and what we still need to do to make Africa a better place for all our people. As we emerge from histories of oppression and colonialism, we clearly have many challenges to deal with. The crisis in Zimbabwe and the wave of xenophobia that has surged through South Africa is obviously high on our agenda right now.
As African leaders, we need to ask what we can do, not just about the current problems but also about the challenges we face more broadly. The ID believes that part of our problem is due to our lack of unity. What are we as leaders therefore doing to promote respect, understanding and tolerance amongst the people of Africa?
Ten years ago, I had the privilege of travelling the length and breadth of Africa and I visited more than half the countries on this continent. During my travels I was struck by the enormous humanity of people, many of whom are being forced to find ways for surviving under the turmoil of natural disasters, conflicts and parasitic governments.
This is quite literally a continent on the move where survival often requires people to travel thousands of kilometres from their homes. We need to recognise this and, in the spirit of ubuntu, embrace each other with solidarity and humanity. Through greater unity I am certain we will be able to overcome all our present challenges and see Africa rise again. Thank you.