The Africa we want: Social media reflections on Africa Day
As Africans across the continent and world celebrate Africa Day, we asked our readers what the day mean for them and to evaluate the progress which has been made to develop the continent. The responses have ranged from messages of optimism, pride at our African cultures and identities. The optimism of a better Africa is punctuated of course by sentiments of disillusionment and betrayal and calls for self introspection. We take a look at some of the messages on social media on Africa Day.
Africa Day has diverse meanings to Africans across the world. As Africans across the continent and world celebrate Africa Day, we asked our readers what the day means for them and to evaluate the progress which has been made to develop the continent. The responses have ranged from messages of optimism, pride at our African independence, cultures and identities.
The positive messages on African pride, unity and hope reflect the shared aspirations for prosperity and freedom. These messages resonate with the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063 [established in January 2015].
Agenda 2063 is, “both a Vision and an Action Plan. It is a call for action to all segments of African society to work together to build a prosperous and united Africa based on shared values and a common destiny.”
Social media messages which speak to the hope and optimism.
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President John Magufuli of Tanzania is the reason Africans should have hope. Africa Day has a new face👏🏾👏🏾 pic.twitter.com/5XbhkdZSzB
As they reflect on the challenges facing the continent in terms of economic and social development, respect for human rights, amongst others, social media users have been asking some really tough and critical questions, invoking Chinua Achebe’s perennial question, “where did the rain begin to beat us?”
Here’s our selection of messages which speak to the disillusionment with the trajectory that the continent is taking.
Africa Day.Not yet uhuru. 875m Africans live in dire poverty.Biggest letdown:corrupt,cruel & incompetent leaders–& their moronic followers.
