By Kombe Chimpinde in Addis Ababa
Mon 27 May 2013, 14:01 CAT
DR Kenneth Kaunda says there is still total healing needed for some societies in Africa.
Speaking at the 50th anniversary celebrations of the African Union, Dr Kaunda said Africans need to strengthen themselves and deal with challenges facing the continent.
"Africa has made strides, yet its challenges are still huge and we need to fight them confidently. We have to strengthen ourselves and work towards our shortcomings and deal with tragedies before us," he said.
Dr Kaunda called for an Africa where everyone would be an actor in the development process, as the continent continually reviews its strides towards the dream of African renaissance.
"This is the time for renaissance. Jubilee is for reflection, renewal…it is for freedom and rededication," he said.
Dr Kaunda, who was one of the prominent leaders honoured for the role he played in the liberation struggle for independence, said he felt humbled to be at the Union's golden jubilee celebration.
He called for the same consensus exhibited by founder leaders on the decolonisation of the region to be shown on issues of HIV/AIDS, climate change and the environment.
Dr Kaunda paid tribute to other African leaders for their role in the liberation struggle.
And speaking shortly after he unveiled the '2063' vision of the AU, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said Africa was colonised because it was not politically integrated in spite of similarities and linkages among its people.
"Our shameful colonisation proved that we were weak in terms of political organisation. I don't like the attitude of Africans because you hear them blaming the Europeans. Well, if you are stupid people will take advantage of you," President Museveni said.
"We of the present generation have continued to make that mistake."
He noted that there were also still gaps in economic integration of African states.
President Museveni said Africa must have the strength to defend its future and land.
Labels: AU, KENNETH KAUNDA
posted by MrK @ 6:01 PM
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