Africans Rising Founder Calls for Pan-African Integration and Youth-Led Leadership

Kumi Naidoo, founder of Africans Rising, in an interview during the second edition of the All-African Movement Assembly (AAMA) in Accra, has emphasized the need for unity and greater integration across the continent. The event, held from August 29th to 31st, 2024, at the Hill View Guest Center, brought together the largest gathering of African movements, activists, and human rights defenders.

Naidoo, who started Africans Rising in 2016, noted that the movement is now led and driven by young people—a reflection of the continent's demographics. He lamented that many of Africa's current political leaders are out of touch with the needs of the continent, being "stuck in the past" and too focused on their personal interests rather than the collective good of Africa.

He highlighted the pressing need for maximum unity across the continent, advocating for integration in various sectors, including social, economic, political, and environmental spheres. Drawing a parallel with the European Union, Naidoo argued that Africa must follow a similar path to ensure its survival in a global landscape dominated by economic powerhouses like the United States and China. He even suggested the creation of a common African currency, which he humorously referred to as the "Afro," inspired by the Euro.

Naidoo also criticized the arbitrary borders drawn by European colonial powers, which continue to cause cultural and economic fragmentation across the continent. While acknowledging that these borders cannot be redrawn, he called for efforts to overcome the historical divisions and work towards greater unity.

The Africans Rising founder categorized African leaders into three groups: those who are fundamentally corrupt and have been in power for decades, those who primarily serve their own interests but are less overt in their corruption, and a smaller group of leaders genuinely trying to push for progress and youth empowerment. 

He pointed out that despite the continent's youthful population where youth make up about 55% to 60% of the population, most political leaders are significantly older, leading to what he jokingly described as the "African Geriatrics Association."

Naidoo also addressed the issue of external exploitation, arguing that African leaders' corruption is often facilitated by powerful interests in wealthy countries. He criticized the role of international institutions like the World Bank and IMF, which he said operate on a system that favors rich countries, leaving African nations with little control over their own economic destinies. He argued that foreign aid should not be viewed as charity but rather as a partial repayment for the exploitation of Africa's resources.

Naidoo emphasized the importance of youth-driven leadership and Pan-African unity as essential for Africa to overcome its challenges and secure a prosperous future. He called on the continent's young people to take up the mantle of leadership and push for the systemic changes needed to achieve true justice, peace, and dignity for all Africans.