TRIBALISM.
Those of you who are familiar with African/ Kenyan politics know that the period before elections is the most ethnically charged period in the entire continent/ country. Some of you have suggested that tribalism is Africa’s worst enemy, even implying that this is the number one reason She is still so underdeveloped.
Some statistics I put together.
Singapore, which was less developed than Kenya in the early 70’s, now has an economy three times larger, even though its population is only a 7th of Kenya’s 34 million, and it possess few natural resources of its own, including land (Singapore’s total land area is 704 km square while Kenya’s is a staggering 580,367 km square). Where did the Africans/ World go wrong and what can be done to rectify the situation? What did Singapore do right to get where it is? Can we use the same development model in Africa? Is there any hope for recovering lost ground? What role should we as young leaders play to mould a better Africa/ World? Is it possible to stump out tribalism and why does it always rear its head before elections?
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For more data on Kenya
For more data on Singapore
For more info on tribalism in Kenya
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2 comments:
Hello Mark and all:I have only spent 2 months in Kenya, so I am obviously no expert. The positive side of tribalism is cultural sacred practices that honor the spirit and do not hurt/harm others. The negative side is power mongering, often to the detriment of women, arrogance, violent conflict resolution, closed minds. These things do not evaporate quickly. Singapore is not culturally comparable. Stamping things out never works in the long term; it takes hard work and time, awareness, knowledge, compassion. I believe in Africa/Kenya but EDUCATION is paramount. Supporting/working for free education for all, including training more teachers and educational volunteers will work best. Electing strong, honest and moral leaders who place a high value on education is a start. Get political!! Know the candidates, encourage everyone to pay attention and vote. The government infrastructure is in place, it is simply abused. I love Kenya and have faith.
I don't have much to say on this subject because I am woefully ignorant about Singapore and Africa. Just wanted to point out that tribalism sounds a lot like racial discrimination to me. That same superiority complex. What do you think?
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