Africa has potential to uplift its people fro poverty and it was a misconception to believe that it was a black continent, the UN secretary general, Ban Ki-moon said at a public lecture in Dar es Salaam yesterday.
He made the remarks shortly after he received harmonious welcome at the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere terminal one with flamboyant parade and traditional dances.
He pointed out that with a goodwill and commitment, the continent could unlock its full potential in a matter of time.
He named several countries he described as “seas of hope” that have provided examples that demonstrate that capability naming Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya and Uganda as examples of countries which have performed extremely well.
In case of Tanzania, the UN chief said it has demonstrated exemplary performance in school enrolment with Malawi doing recommended job to improve agricultural production.
He said Kenya has done well in children immunisation while Uganda’s efforts to control HIV/Aids was unmatched by many countries around the world.
“These examples show that Africa can do it if there is commitment,” he said at a public lecture attended by members of the diplomatic cop, ministers, business community and the general public.
Ki-moon pledged the UN commitment and support to such countries noting that their performances have demonstrated that together they can confront poverty among their people.
But Ki-moon had a message for Africa and its leaders saying the continent was tired of endless conflicts and crisis that stall development and progress.
He used the public lecture to remind developed countries of Africa’s critical situation that require global concerted efforts to avoid slipping back in success cases.
He noted that the global economic recession, climate change, food insecurity and war could stagnate and erode achievements by countries to meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
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