Hon Deputy Speaker, hon Chairperson of the NCOP, Ministers, premiers and hon members, in commemoration of the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963 now the African Union Cope is proud to be part of this day on which we can celebrate African unity. [Interjections.]
We have an amazing continent with natural resources such as natural gas, diamonds, oil and gold. We have produced some of the best sportsmen worldwide and can boast our positive and friendly attitude in the face of adversity.
On the other hand, we are the second largest continent worldwide, but Africa is home to 32 out of 38 of the most highly indebted poor countries worldwide. According to Transparency International 2010, the majority of African countries fall between the ranks of 2.0 and 3.0 in corruption, with 0.0 being the most corrupt. Indeed, the African Union, including Nepad and the 53 member states, have major hurdles ahead of them regarding development, renewal and advancement in Africa.
We need credible leadership throughout Africa, leadership that will stand for justice and fight corruption in their governments. Without legitimate leadership, our dream of a better Africa will remain a pipe dream.
Crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide should not be tolerated among members of the African Union. Justice must be served. Conflict, HIV and Aids, curable disease, such as malaria and TB, poverty, climate change and lack of education contribute to the degeneration of our societies and cultures. Education is a primary factor in combating this degeneration. It is no longer acceptable to send our children abroad for them to contribute to other economies. Africans are capable of changing their future. We can turn Africa around by stimulating the economy through production, and by having good economic policy and a solid foundation of principles in business. The time for change is now.
Accountability and citizens activism are of the utmost importance in holding our leaders accountable. We must ensure that democracy governs this continent. Civil society, nongovernmental organisations, grass-roots movements and governmental organisations are all playing a more prominent role in Africa. Free media also contribute greatly to democracy and accountability. All these elements should be encouraged and not discouraged.
In conclusion, we will commemorate and celebrate the establishment of the African Union today. Let's not forget the task that lies ahead of us. The mandate is not only to establish a united Africa in terms of economics and politics, but also in terms of renewing our societies where some nations have been ravaged by conflict and poverty. Renewal is most needed within these recovering societies if we want to move forward as one united Africa. I thank you. [Applause.]