Dubai—an oasis of dreams rising from the desert—has become a global symbol of innovation, development, and ambition. My journey to this remarkable city opened my eyes to what is truly possible when vision meets commitment. It was not just a trip; it was a revelation—one that left me with admiration for what human determination can achieve, and a burning question in my heart: If Dubai could do it, why not Africa?
A City That Was Once Like Us
Many people forget that just a few decades ago, Dubai was not the towering spectacle it is today. It was a relatively undeveloped region, largely dependent on fishing and pearl diving. Oil did bring in wealth, yes—but what transformed Dubai was not just money, it was leadership. It was strategic vision, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
Walking through Dubai’s streets, I saw a city that had invested in its people, infrastructure, and global relevance. From world-class public transportation to record-breaking skyscrapers, every corner of the city whispered: This was planned. This was built. This was intentional.
As an African, I felt proud, but I also felt challenged. Our continent is not lacking in resources. From gold to cocoa, from oil to lithium, Africa is richly blessed. Yet, we still struggle with poverty, poor infrastructure, and limited opportunities. The difference isn’t in what we have—it’s in what we do with what we have.
African Leaders: The Potential Within
Contrary to popular belief, I believe African leaders have all it takes to make Africa great again. The problem is not capacity, it’s often consistency. We have leaders with education, exposure, and experience. Many have studied in top universities, rubbed shoulders with global policymakers, and managed state affairs under intense pressure.
What we need now is a shift—from short-term politics to long-term nation-building.
Here’s why I believe in the potential of African leaders:
- They Understand the People: No one can solve African problems better than those who have lived them. Our leaders know the languages, the cultures, and the values of our people. That understanding is a powerful foundation for inclusive development.
- They Have Access to Global Best Practices: Thanks to globalization and diplomacy, African leaders are exposed to what’s working in other parts of the world. If they apply these models with a local touch, transformation is possible.
- The Youth Are Rising: Across Africa, the young generation is more informed, more connected, and more determined than ever before. This puts positive pressure on leadership to perform. Many leaders are already adapting.
- We’re Rich in Resources: From minerals to agriculture to tourism, Africa is a goldmine. With good policies, these resources can be turned into sustainable wealth for our people.
- We Have Examples to Follow: Rwanda’s post-genocide transformation, Ghana’s democratic stability, Botswana’s economic management—these are African success stories led by African leaders. So, we know it can be done.
The Way Forward
For Africa to rise, our leaders must embrace three critical principles:
- Accountability: Leaders must answer to the people. Transparency and anti-corruption drives are not optional—they are essential.
- Investment in Education and Infrastructure: Just as Dubai focused on transforming its desert into a tech-driven city, we must focus on schools, roads, healthcare, and innovation.
- Pan-African Unity: No African country can rise alone. Collaboration, trade partnerships, and regional integration will accelerate development across the board.
Final Thoughts
My time in Dubai taught me that greatness is not reserved for the West or the East. It belongs to those who dare to dream and are disciplined enough to act. African leaders have what it takes—the knowledge, the resources, and the people. What remains is the will.
Africa does not need to be redefined by outsiders. We can shape our own narrative. It’s time to build cities, empower youth, invest in ideas, and revive the pride of a continent that gave birth to civilization.
Let us rise. Let Africa rise.
– Jonathan Amenyah
