Back in the 1960s Africa not only fed itself, it also exported food. Not anymore.

Africa is poor because she is not free.

The richest persons in Africa are heads of state, governors and ministers. So every 'educated' African who wants to be rich - and there is nothing wrong with wanting to be rich - heads straight into government or politics.

In a banana republic, one might slip on a banana peel but things do work - now and then for the people, albeit inefficiently and unreliably.

Look at the history of peace accords in Africa. They have a terrible record. They are shredded even before the ink on them is dry.

Personally, I regard myself as an intellectual 'rebel,' kicking against the 'old colonialism-imperialism paradigm' which has landed Africa in a conundrum.

Western-style multi-party democracy is possible but not suitable for Africa.