African solutions to Africa’s problems : recommendations for APRM implementation

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.