There are powerful forces undermining progress in Africa. But one must never underestimate the power of the people to bring about change.

Toyin Falola has given us what is truly rare in modern African writing: a seriously funny, racy, irreverent package of memories, and full of the most wonderful pieces of poetry and ordinary information. It is a matter of some interest, that the only other volume A Mouth Sweeter Than Salt reminds one of is Ake, by Wole Soyinka. What is it about these Yorubas?

At the age of 15, a teacher had asked me what I wanted to do for a career, and without knowing why or even how I replied that I wanted to be a poet.

They had always told me that I wrote like a man.

Politicians are easy to attack, but frankly, we are all guilty of not meeting the needs of Africa's young people properly.

Humans, not places, make memories.

Its a sad moment, really, when parents first become a bit frightened of their children.