Our attention has been drawn to the struggles faced by Mr. Aliko Dangote, the richest black person in the world, after constructing the largest single-train oil refinery—the biggest of its kind in Africa and Europe combined. This monumental achievement stands as a symbol of African potential, yet it underscores the challenges facing the African private sector. The sector is still characterized by the remnants of colonialism which has stifled African businessmen and women from curving out their identity both within and without through various machinations.
We have also taken note of the recent remarks made by Dr. McDan McKorley, Africa’s leading figure in shipping and logistics, about the lack of support from African governments towards Africa’s private sector.
Both Mr. Dangote and Dr. McDan represent the very core of African business leadership, embodying the same strategic pillars the African Continental Unity Party (ACUP) is focused on: Energy, Transportation, and Communication. Their grievances resonate deeply with us, as they highlight long-standing issues that need immediate attention.
For far too long, Africa’s private sector has been disrespected and undermined by a combination of neocolonial forces and complicit political groups on the continent. This lack of respect not only stifles business but also impedes Africa’s progress.
We, therefore, call upon the African private sector to rally behind the ACUP. Together, we can chart a new course for the continent. African businesses require political protection from foreign aggression, and the ACUP fully understands the vital role that a strong private sector plays in the development of continental unity.
The ACUP strongly believes in fostering globally competitive African businesses, particularly in manufacturing and technology. It is, therefore, an official ACUP policy to cultivate a vibrant and strong private sector that is integrated into African society—not only to create jobs but also to defend the continent from continued colonial exploitation by transforming our raw materials into finished products.
The ACUP urges the African private sector to join forces with us as we build a movement that will transform Africa within our generation to a global powerhouse-economy of US$ 60 trillion in the next 20 years. This can only be done with a combination of Africa’s private sector and diaspora as a force for good.
THE ACUP WELCOMES YOU
Kwame Gonza is a Pan-Africanist and member of the African Continental Unity Party, a Mechanical Engineer, geopolitical analyst, and architect of the African Railway Triangle Network Master Plan.
