Part of the big picture: Meaningful participation for women and youth on the journey to Africa 2063

 

The end of 2013 has come with a number of highs and lows. The African Union celebrated its achievement of 10 years and with it 50 years of the OAU. The year end saw the loss of one of Africa’s greatest heroes – Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela causing an outpouring of global grief and reflection on his inspiring leadership. As most of us struggled to come to terms with wither way the Arab Spring in Egypt, the conflict in South Sudan burst onto our screens almost overtaking the ongoing conflict in the Central African Republic. Once more we brace ourselves for further pain for the people of South Sudan as fear filled women and children scurry whilst men in army fatigue hurl threats at each other and do the war dance. Tragically, more tales of violated women and girls in make shift camps will emerge as new calls for help to stop the violence and suffering increase. It seems the fire in Africa’s belly never stops burning.