Ghanaian writer Kofi Barima asks: when will everyday Africans play their role to ensure an accessible Africa?

Son of Africa!
Africans need Africa more than Africa needs Africans.

Once again, my name is Ofori Samuel, writing under the name Kofi Barima. I am an African Authorpreneur on a mission to make a difference in Africa through writing and community-led initiatives. Despite the significant progress made by my team United For Humanity, we know there’s still a long way to go.

So, what’s Ghana’s real problem? What’s Africa’s real problem? I believe it’s a mindset and leadership crisis. Africa does not lack the brains or potential of people capable of diligently serving or making a conscious effort to inspire hope and rebuild Africa’s future. We are simply not ready as a people.

I believe there have been more intelligent and well-educated Ghanaians and Africans in government for centuries, yet what’s happening in Africa and various African countries? Being smart is not enough, and this proves that intelligence alone is not what is needed to solve the problems of Africa or Ghanaians.

The biggest asset in the world is the human mind; however, the biggest strength is not intelligence but the ability to create something entirely out of nothing. Africa seems to have produced obsessively out-of-touch individuals unable to deal with the real world. There needs to be a radical shift in attitude and mindset.

Ghana and Africa need people in government who will stop giving excuses and focus on creating something out of the abundance. Africans need to be thoughtful about the reputation of those they choose as leaders. We are all able and capable leaders.

Africa is greatly missing compassionate and serious-minded leaders to effect drastic changes, not to explain to the people why things are not working or blame others for their shortcomings.

Younger Africans need to understand that education does not equate to intelligence. Being hopeful or having faith is not enough. A sense of urgency and responsibility do far better. Take time to understand your leadership. Avoid mere handouts and instead look up to modest actions. Those who are in the business of lying, inciting, and commercializing politics or religion do not mean well for you.

Real intelligence is established on transformation, not blame or excuses. Real transformation begins with the understanding of how socioeconomic or personal structures are built and sustained.

Well, maybe global politics is a game of interest, and I can’t blame the best players for excelling at the game. The intelligence of leadership matters much more than charisma. You only have yourself to cheat by not making the right decision at the upcoming poll, pal!

Blessings,
Ofori Samuel writing as Kofi Barima