Hurricane or Whirlwind?

 

 

 At #TheBalcony with Christopher Kisekka 

 

As I sat on #TheBalcony today, scrolling through my social media feed, I couldn't help but notice the predominant topic of conversation: the ongoing coups in West and Central Africa. It appears that this issue is capturing the attention and sparking discussions in nearly all African countries.

The reactions to these events are quite diverse. Some individuals are jubilant, celebrating what they perceive as a positive force for change. Others, however, seem unmoved by the developments, possibly due to a sense of resignation or desensitization to political upheaval. Meanwhile, there's a third group diligently engaging in analysis, striving to comprehend the underlying dynamics at play.

With a staggering count of seven coups occurring in the region since 2020, it's no wonder that theories and narratives have emerged to explain this phenomenon. One prevailing perspective likens these coups to a relentless, sweeping wind, uprooting leaders who are perceived as mere puppets of Western powers, complicit in the exploitation of their countries' valuable resources among others reasons. This narrative doesn't shy away from highlighting the stark poverty experienced by local populations, which stands in stark contrast to the wealth generated by these resources.

In the opening statements of "Africa Must Unite," a book dedicated to the collective destiny of African nations by Kwame Nkrumah, the author passionately declares, "This wind of change blowing through Africa, as I have said before, is no ordinary wind. It is a raging hurricane against which the old order cannot stand." This evocative statement prompts us to consider if a similar "coup wind" is once again sweeping through West Africa.

This wind of change blowing through Africa, as I have said before, is no ordinary wind. It is a raging hurricane against which the old order cannot stand.

There is undeniable truth in the assertion that those seizing power in these nations are pointing to the lingering colonial influences that have perpetuated exploitation by former colonial powers, notably the French. However, a sobering concern arises: even those who ascend to power through these coups may eventually succumb to external pressures, rendering this "wind of change blowing through Africa" more akin to a passing breeze than the tumultuous hurricane it initially seemed.

This begs the critical question: How can Africa, a continent once dubbed the "continent of hopelessness," break free from the grip of the "old order"? The alarming occurrence of seven coups in less than three years within former French colonies undeniably speaks to a deep-seated issue. Nevertheless, the pessimistic reality remains that meaningful change might remain elusive.

In light of these complexities, it becomes imperative to explore genuine avenues for lasting transformation, fostering true independence from external influences, and ushering in an era where "This wind of change blowing through Africa" can truly be the herald of a new and equitable future.