Where are we in respect to Africa?
Dear Editor,
From a Jamaican perspective, building greater bonds with Africa is long overdue. From a Caribbean vantage point, it makes even more sense to connect. Globally, the time has come.
It is time for people of African descent to arise together with Africa.
Jamaica has been a nation well loved by Africa. Over the years, it has been commonly reported that wherever Jamaicans go in Africa they are treated like royalty. There are a number of possible reasons for this openness to Jamaicans. One key reason is how we have identified with the African struggle over the years.
So why have we not capitalised on this fact for mutual benefit and established stronger bonds as a nation? Over 90 per cent of Jamaica’s population is of African descent. There should be greater connectivity and collaboration with our African brothers and sisters.
Jamaica should also be playing a key role in helping to fast-track opportunities between the Caribbean and Africa, especially as the African Union has recognised the Caribbean as part of its sixth region.
North America, Europe, China, and others have recognised the great potential that Africa has, but we appear to be late in establishing links and partnerships for growth and development. We should be connecting, networking, collaborating, and engaging in exchanges of knowledge and expertise on all fronts: government, private sector, the Church, non-governmental organisations, education, science and technology, universities, medicine, banking, and other areas.
Can you imagine if the whole of Africa traded with the Caribbean?
On a global level, people of African descent have been taken advantage of for centuries, whether outside or on the continent. They have played a significant role on both sides of the Atlantic in building the wealth of the West.
While we address the justice issues regarding our people and others, having suffered so long from injustice, the time has come. It is time for us to rise together to create a new future for ourselves on both sides of the Atlantic.
Bruce Fletcher
bruceaf_100@yahoo.com
