Recent news has been full of coverage on Africa, good and bad. People are more and more aware of the fact that Africa has been hailed as the next big thing, especially in terms of business opportunities. Having said that, not everyone is in touch what is going on. Unsurprisingly, the majority of people still only know what they see in mainstream media, which is abject poverty, famine, war and disease.
A Brighter Shade of Black
I personally am not impressed by celebrity do-gooders who feel the need to save the continent from itself and-as they seek to raise funds and raise their profile in the process-perpetuated the stereotype of a continent that is a bleak, hopeless place: the "dark continent."
Many of the people who talk about Africa in this light very seldom visit the area, and if they do they head straight to the shanty towns, which make for better photo opportunities and more captivating PR. What they don't show you on camera is the hotel they stayed in, probably the Hilton or Hyatt. Indeed, major hotel chains have established a presence across the continent and are benefitting from the ever booming tourism industry that exists. The may even have dined at one of the continent's top restaurants, and may be listening to some of the continent's most prominent musicians on the radio.
I know a very unique Africa. A continent that is becoming a powerful force in the world. A continent no longer torn apart like it once was by horrific civil wars, famine and poverty. A continent with peace and democracy, dramatically improving economies, enhanced education and healthcare and amazing developments in infrastructure.
Africa is the continent of the 21st century. And that's a story that needs to be told. Of course, serious problems and challenges endure. But despite great strides forward, the continent continues to be marginalized and it has yet to claim its rightful spot on the world stage.
It's time to hear about the new Africa. I hope to play a small role in opening eyes to the boundless possibilities that exist in this great continent. It is a story about the exciting, emerging Africa that I like to think of as A Brighter Shade of Black.
About Dr. Mwenya Kasonde
Mwenya Kasonde is a medical doctor turned entrepreneur. She left a career in emergency medicine to set up Sishima Holdings; an African company dedicated to the advancement and empowerment of the continent and its people. She is an award winning public speaker and writes extensively on the subject of African business trends and opportunities. Her first book A Brighter Shade of Black is available now on www.amazon.com or for more information visit www.sishimapublishing.com .