Emergence of the African Class

As the world rushes in its quest for economic, political and social freedom, Africa, long considered the Dark Continent, is not being left behind. The continued discovery of oil and mineral prospects across the continent has given Africa the rather enviable tag as ‘The Next Frontier’

World powerhouses, are rushing to set up base in Africa with the hope of building strong economic ties with the oil and mineral rich countries, this can be seen from the huge Chinese investments across the continent, Including the financing and building of the African Union Headquarters in Ethiopia, the massive investments in Zimbabwe and Kenya just to name a few.

The West is not being left behind in this quest, recent monetary signings by the World Bank and IMF to countries like Malawi who are on a reform trail is part of this. The influx of multiple listed western companies establishing bases in Africa is on the increase with General Electric, Google leading the bunch. The so called BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, Canada and South Africa) nations are not trailing either with their listed companies buying into local companies across the continent

Away from all the activity from the Diaspora is an emerging African class. Learned, motivated and with a passion to excel and be at their countries forefronts as resources are exploited. Last year Forbes had a number of billionaires of African descent on their list of the richest people in the world. These are individuals who built empires out of hardwork and dedication.

With key African individuals leading some of the biggest industries in the continent, there has emerged a new set of role models for the African youth. Roles not based on any Hollywood dreams or make it rich schemes but from people who rose above all their hurdles to emerge as world leaders.

So even as the world scrambles for what might be perceived as a second colonization of the continent, history might not be on their side. We have with us, a vibrant youth, who armed with the right skills, education and experience are ready to chart their own destiny and will definitely be involved in the New African Renaissance that will create The African Class.