| |
| |
 |
Media |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
General Secretary |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
| |
|
| |
Can Anything Good Come out of Africa? |
| |
|
| |
The other day I listened to Former President Thabo Mbeki in an interview with Tshepiso Makwetla on Interface. He was in his element as he spoke to a series of challenges that Africa faces, especially the preconceptions that continue to be propelled against the continent. He made a significant point that the hosting of the Soccer World Cup in the Continent is a statement of self-validation by Africans of our capabilities, connectedness and hopes for the future.
We have to express our pride and gratitude for the excellent way they have hosted this global event. Despite the constant barrages of negative press by some in the Western media the country has pulled out all stops to host what is considered the best world cup ever. In typical fashion some predicted failure, poor attendance, inability to meet deadlines, violence, racial conflict and even bloodshed. All these were proven wrong and by all accounts the visitors who have come to the continent have given us a thumps-up.
My own criticism of South Africa is that the organizers could have involved more role players, beyond sports personalities, from the continent. There has not been enough visibility of African leaders to drive home the point of African unity. What has been most heart warming though is the level of support for African teams, especially Bafana Bafana, generated throughout the continent.
This moment has not only united us but it has resuscitated, at least for some of us, an African consciousness, that Mbeki and others so often called for through notions such as 'NEPAD', 'African Renaissance' and the 'I am an African' discourse. This World Cup is more than just sport, it is an opportunity for Africans to dig deep and recover our pride, our history, our spiritual resources and claim victory for ourselves. Whilst I do not like the product being advertised I have been quite taken up by the ad featuring K'naan's song - |
| |
Wavin' Flag :
When I get older, I will be stronger
They'll call me freedom,
Just like a waving flag so wave your flags-now wave your flags... |
| |
|
| |
The ad shows young Africans flying into the sky with might, energy, great thrust and such self-believe. How I dream that beyond this world cup African youths can refuse to believe anyone who says everything good comes from outside. We too have so much to offer to the world if only we can believe in ourselves, affirm and embrace each other, encourage and give space to each other to reach for the stars. I believe the youthful Black Stars of Ghana will reach for the stars tonight- a symbol of what we can all do.
I do not mourn so much the loss of Bafana Bafana. They are heroes by just by who they are, their performance in the field and by being part of a winning nation and continent. It is ironic that South Africa, the youngest democracy on the continent has done it for us by hosting the world cup; it is now for the oldest democracy, Ghana, which should continue the flame of the continent.
Mayibuye iAfrica!!! |
| |
Rev. Dr. Prince Dibeela
UCCSA General Secretary |
|
 |
|
|
|
| |
|
Social Media |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
| |
|
| |
| Devotional |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
