Abstract:
The end of slavery and colonialism in Africa ushered a sense of relief for the
African people. The Organisation of African Unity (OAU) succeeded to lead African
countries towards political independence and self rule. However, African countries
were characterised by poverty, underdevelopment and marginalisation from the
global economy, long after slavery and colonial rule and domination. Numerous
interventions and donor aids by international institutions and structures were
introduced to eradicate poverty and underdevelopment in African countries. Aid
programmes and assistance created further dependency syndrome leading to the
current unacceptable socio-economic and political conditions facing the majority
of African countries. The African Union (AU) is trying to create a better life for all
Africans and a number of recommendations are made in an attempt to assist African
leaders to practice good governance, respect for human rights, uphold the rule of law
and to provide effective leadership.
