Development Discourse with Amos SAFO: Africa does not need permission from any power to rise

Malcolm X believed that new thinking would unite Africans worldwide. He stated, “It is African unity that will end the enslavement of black people.”

Growing Force

In a trending video, Harrison Ford acknowledged a growing force in the world. This force consists of young people disappointed by global leaders. They are angry and organized to make a difference. Ford described them as a "moral army" that seems unstoppable. He warned, “The most important thing we can do for them is to get out of their way.”

Ford's video preceded Captain Ibrahim Traore’s inspiring speech to African leaders. The video had over 40,000 shares and continued to trend globally.

Africa's Pain

Captain Traore noted that Africa has carried the world's burdens for centuries. Yet, it has never worn its own crown. He emphasized that Africa's suffering under colonialism has been ignored for years.

He pointed out that Africa’s disunity has been exploited by foreign interests. Traore declared that Africa is not just a battlefield or resource warehouse. “Africa will not kneel under false generosity,” he asserted.

Western Hypocrisy

Traore criticized Western powers for sending aid while exploiting Africa’s resources. He highlighted their talk on climate change while funding forces destroying Africa’s environment. “What kind of generosity feeds the mouth but silences the voice?” he asked.

He clarified that Africans appreciate genuine humanitarian assistance but reject exploitation disguised as partnership. According to him, Africa needs justice, not charity.

Colonial Legacy

Traore explained that Africa's wounds are inherited legacies from empire builders who dehumanized Africans. He described modern colonialism as wearing suits and signing contracts in major cities like Paris and Washington.

This new colonialism continues to exploit without consent and silences dialogue instead of encouraging it.

Path to Sovereignty

Traore argued peace can only be achieved if Western powers acknowledge their role in Africa's poverty. He reminded them that it is Africa’s resources building Western economies.

He challenged the idea of measuring development solely through GDP, emphasizing human resources instead. Traore insisted Africans should define development on their own terms.

He questioned why African nations are labeled unstable when they make independent choices.

Burkina Faso's Independence

Burkina Faso has chosen sovereignty and should not be seen as a threat, he said. “We are free people,” he declared firmly.

Traore rejected an investment package from former President Barack Obama during his visit to Burkina Faso. Known as "the lion," he stands against Western domination and exploitation.

Inspiring Change

Since taking office in 2022, Traore ordered French troops' departure from Burkina Faso due to their perceived ineffectiveness against rebel attacks.

He expelled diplomats viewed as threats and closed biased media outlets promoting anti-African agendas. Additionally, he nationalized mining contracts held by Western corporations.

Local contractors replaced foreign companies for infrastructure projects, boosting local employment opportunities.

Recently, Traore commissioned a tomato processing factory aimed at local consumption and export to neighboring countries like Ghana.

Food self-sufficiency is crucial for true independence and sovereignty in Burkina Faso.

Continental Movement

The movement towards dewesternization in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger is spreading across Africa rapidly. Despite numerous assassination attempts on him, Captain Traore remains resilient against these threats.

Many see this revolution as part of Africa's fight for dignity and sovereignty—similar to Captain Thomas Sankara’s legacy.

Critics label Traore a dictator due to his military coup; however, strong leadership is often necessary for development.

Captain Traore leads a rising moral army in Africa today.

His leadership inspires youth across the continent to reclaim dignity and freedom.

Africa must rise using its own strength without needing permission from powerful nations.