AFRICA and AFRICANS face a paradox that is difficult to accept. The continent is one of the world's richest in the most valuable natural resources; yet African populations are among the poorest and most in need on the planet. Certainly, slavery and colonization-of which Africa was the primary victim in the past-as well as the harmful consequences of Western imperialism that it still suffers today, with policies of subjugation such as "France-Africa," constitute major obstacles to the modernization and emergence of this continent. However, Africa can and must develop, if and only if the Africans of today and tomorrow decide to do so. Educated like their Western counterparts in the most prestigious schools, African elites must assume their responsibilities in order to better guide their compatriots along the paths of peace and development. Africa can and must develop; it simply needs to be well-managed and very well-led!
