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US Presidential elections: 10 lessons for Zambia.

06 Nov

The USA goes to the polls

The year 2012 is getting to a climax ending. For the United States of America (USA), this also brings with it an intriguing election.

This is an election that not only interests the American world but the rest of the globe. Inevitably, what happens in USA affects more than America, extending to the rest of the world.

Like many, I have taken a keen interest in this election. There have been many before this but the last in 2008 and this year’s take on a different dimension of sorts. Not because I foresee any direct benefit as a Zambian rooted in the heart of Africa. I suppose it is mainly because of the way events in the US open my eyes and mind to what my beloved nation can learn.

Most times when we seek to contrast where we are with a reference point more advanced, we are tempted to conclude we are too far off to emulate. I am not one though to subscribe to that school of thought. Even the most advanced or sophisticated nations or people started off somewhere.

It is with that in mind and from that perspective that I list below some important insights Zambia can pick from the US elections as we strive to steer our nation on the path of progress.

1. Awareness of voters- It is evident that Americans take an active interest in what their leaders and government are doing. This is seen as campaigns have progressed and potential voters interviewed to assess the performance of Barack Obama or the presentations of his opponent Mitt Romney.

While it may be that some will vote on the basis of prejudice or deeply set preferences, it cannot be doubted too that a significant portion at least have an opinion on what they want, what has not worked and what matters based on logical rationale.

Way forward for Zambia: Literacy is a priority. The people must be aware and must be tutored enough to read, analyse and know what is happening in their environment.

As things stand, we have citizens swayed by the pangs of poverty accepting opaque beer, chitenges or a bag of mealie meal for their vote.

We see even some literate ones that do not read or independently analyse their environment. This has the potential of giving ground to editorial, political or speculative manipulation.

2. Information is power- To be where people know and dissect the calibre of their candidates or government, information must be readily available and accessible. Through various channels, civil society, think tanks and the media, this to a large extent has been achieved in the US.

Coupled with literacy, access to information becomes fundamental in having an enlightened citizenry that know what progress and development looks like.

Way forward for Zambia: As above, our country must ensure we are rich in history, information dissemination and independence in the expression of thought. Further to this, there must be support for institutions and bodies that can offer objective research, analysis and release of critical information that would aid in assessing governance, government performance and leadership accountability.

3.Policy and plan clarity- Both the Republican and Democratic sides have spent time and resources explaining their plans to the electorate. This has been the basis for convincing voters why they ought to be elected.

The bashing that has gone on between the candidates involves their respective positions on various issues ranging from foreign policy, gay rights, security to unemployment. This is done with clarity and even when they digress, somehow they are swung back to tackle their plans and intentions should they be swept into office.

Way forward for Zambia: Our leaders and political parties must mature into such a bracket. It is high time we started witnessing meaningful campaigns and progressive messages. In the 21st century, we must move away from name calling, wild allegations, petty arguments and hollow stage pronouncements. Instead we must be wooed by elaborate plans, proposed policies or evidence of achievement.

4. Professional and mature engagement- While differences may have appeared during the US campaigns, they have largely been based on principle, ideology and policy as articulated by both candidates.

The three Presidential debates are testimony of this. The presidential candidates and their running mates shared a platform to state their thoughts before in-house and TV audiences. The structured debates were themed around specific topics and the candidates exchanged their views passionately.

But what is noteworthy is seeing Obama and Romney appear at the traditional Al Smith fundraising dinner days later, in humorous mood with jokes characterising the evening. I was left yearning for a time we would see President Sata, Hakainde Hichilema and Nevers Mumba on the same stage, sharing their plans and thoughts.

Way forward for Zambia: We need to challenge ourselves to aspire for such a level of engagement. A time when our candidates can come together and maturely outline their plans as leaders, not dignified party cadres.

This is a challenge that falls squarely on the shoulders of civil society, the church, politicians and we the ordinary citizens to push for this maturity and organisation.

5. Elaborate planning and logistics- Everything to do with the US election is well laid out and known. The elections are comprehensively planned, dates known for each cycle, each of the states pursue their candidate selection process seamlessly etc.

This organisation goes down to the last letter and is testimony of the seriousness attached to the entire process end to end.

Way forward for Zambia: We must continue pushing to invest in our electoral process. This involves, among many other things, the election dates being constitutionally enshrined, the electoral body professionally run and empowered to manage transparent elections and the rules of the game fairly applied for all parties.

6. Let the Constitution reign- The US constitution spells out the date of such elections and which offices are due for a vote. There is no debate there, it is well known to all.

Similarly we observe this Constitutional clarity in spelling out that such an election will be held in four year cycles on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November.

Additionally, it is explicit that even though election results are known within 48hrs, the inauguration is slated for January 20th the following year.

Way forward for Zambia: When it comes to important things such as the Constitution, our sights must be set on future generations. It is posterity we are called to serve and thus if we happen to land in such privileged roles, selfish interests must be subordinated at all costs.

Close to half a century after political independence, Zambia still discusses a people driven constitution. Leaders have taken office with a firm promise to deliver on this. Alas, we are still discussing it.

7. National pride and patriotism- There is an unmistakeable pride in the nation when we observe the Americans including their Presidential candidates. Perhaps it comes with having achieved something notable or being powerful. It could well be but is there a law that prohibits one to be proud of their roots, history and status? None at all.

It therefore remains for a nation to stand together and be identified with their heritage. That is a start for so many things a nation can aspire for and achieve.

It is inspiring to hear the candidates invoke God to bless America or how they are doing something for “this great nation”.

Way forward for Zambia: . There are times when a nation must stand tall together. Times when we can choose to cherish our unity, peace and diversity. Times when things like our Independence day must be a reminder of our proud history and sacrifice bringing together leaders and citizens across the political divide.

Unfortunately, we have continued with the thoughtless snubbing of Independence celebrations and the significant politicisation of such an event as ruling party cadres take centre stage. Successive opposition leaders including our incumbent Head of state, former presidents and partisan CSOs have all in the recent past shunned such national events.

8. Transparency- This year’s election has been confirmed to be the US’s most expensive in the nation’s history. A staggering $4.2bn has been raised by both parties as at 4th November.

The overriding lesson here is the transparency and accountability that has come with this amount of money. Each of the two camps have consistently declared the monies raised, an indication that even the source is comprehensively scrutinised.

This is a cardinal requirement to mitigate the risk of a nation being hijacked by players with ill intention and self serving ulterior motives.

Way forward for Zambia: The last elections in 2011 provide an insight into this gap in Zambia. There was controversy regarding the then ruling party’s exorbitant campaign while the then opposition also went on the campaign trail on a chartered chopper etc. What the nation was not privileged to know is who the financiers were or how much monies were raised to finance the respective campaigns.

Zambia and Africa in general seem largely exposed to questionable funding to usher political leaders into office. It therefore highlights the imperative urgency to put in place structures that stimulate high levels of accountability. This may seem far fetched now but we must get there.

9. It can get dirty, personal and also go wrong- Let us make no mistake, not all has been rosy. The fierce run up to the US election has brought to the fore some heated exchanges between the candidates.

Obama’s birth has been questioned while Romney it has been alleged was not paying taxes. CNN recently aired some catch phrases from the campaigns. Obama coined the term “Romnesia” referring to his opponent’s inability to recall anything negative attributed to him. Similarly, Romney mentioned how USA needed change beyond speeches, an apparent sarcastic reference to Obama’s eloquence.

On the actual election day, there were some reports of long queues and machines not working in some areas. Such logistical hiccups give a dose of reality where such enormous events have to be put together.

Way forward for Zambia: The fact that there has been name calling and some negative taunts during the US campaigns can offer dual insight.

Firstly, some of the things we experience in our national politics may just be normal. Secondly, there must be a limit to the negativity and an explicit focus on the bigger issues.

We have seen from the US campaigns that even with all the punches thrown at each other, the candidates were forced by the stage, audience and stakeholders to discuss critical issues in relation to their plans. They therefore did not have the luxury of character assassination or demeaning exchanges about individual looks.

That for Zambian politicians simply means it is time to grow up.

10. Do your job- The way Obama has been put on the spot over the last four years speaks volumes. His performance has been closely scrutinised from all angles whether prejudicial or objective, economic or political, domestic or foreign.

In response, what he has had to put on the table is evidence of achievement beyond political rhetoric.

This is an ever present challenge to leaders to focus on delivering and doing their job while in office. The only language that is likely to resonate well with the electorate will be pinned on performance and not promissory notes. A leader is held accountable and assessed through the lenses of delivery on pledges made.

Way forward for Zambia: We must move away from the use of development as a bait or reward for voting for particular candidates or political parties. Often we have heard leaders unashamedly tell voters that they will wallow in under development if they elected any candidate or party other than their own.

The lesson to pick from the USA is that the presidential candidates have at all times articulated plans for the American people, not Democrats or Republicans.

We must step away from deeply partisan agendas that ostracize innocent citizens on the basis of political affiliation or association.

The final analysis

Evidently, we are paces off the level seen in the US. This in no way suggests that progress is an impossible feat.

We must strive to improve where we lack, learn from those that have made strides and change or effectively eliminate what is not adding value.

As the US ushers in either the same President for another term or a new President, it should not end there for Zambia. There are lessons to be picked which will prove instrumental in our quest for progress.

Is it possible? Yes it is. It depends entirely on our collective societal and political will.

 
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Posted by on November 6, 2012 in Opinion, Politics

 

The kind of God we want

27 Oct

Retracing our roots

We have all grown up with some impression about a higher being, commonly called God. To some, He has been a disciplinarian with thunder for a voice. To others, He has been one that dishes out fury and punishment to the rebellious. He is the all seeing, all knowing and Big Brother supervisor.

Over the years as we grow, this perception of God may be altered as one discovers more about Him. While still others may completely steer away from Him opting for atheism or whatever variation they find comfortable and acceptable.

The choice will always be personal and unique to an individual. What is explicit though is that one way or another, every individual yearns for or pursues something bigger and deeper than themselves.

Looking around in our lives and environment, it becomes an intriguing undertaking to ascertain people’s perception of God. We all harbour expectations while at the same time may not have outgrown the God planted in our young naïve minds as we grew up.

Is He what we want Him to be?

So then what kind of God do we see and desire in our lives?

I for one don’t want the dictator we have been told about. The one who insists on His way or the highway. The bully that threatens you with eternal fire. I can always picture that He perhaps does not even know how to smile! I can probably confidently say the same is society’s expectation.

We all want the God that will turn a blind eye to the things we love which He deems wrong. A God who will see corruption and laugh it off as a modern phenomenon.

The God who will turn a blind eye to fornication, adultery and insatiable lusts that His creation is lost in. Because He realises this is a normal part of their makeup and it offers them the pleasure that makes them happy. One who will gladly endorse multiple partners and reckless fun as acceptable.

We would like a God that sees no ill in me being kind to the person I know or want something from but not to the stranger on the street.

One that cares less about how loud I sing and pray in church on Sunday while my mind is on the crazy time I had the previous night. Even better, while I sit there listening to another boring sermon or homily, my mind would be on that irritating man or woman, relative or otherwise, who I loath and would want to get back at.

I’m just being human and I would undoubtedly be over the moon to have a God who has a human mind and understanding of my make up.

Imagine a God that takes a vacation with no particular attention to my appetites, thoughts or the so called sinful drive of my nature!

A God who won’t be so bothered to see humanity pounding each other as a result of jealousy, selfishness, raw ambition and self importance.

I want a God that can see me walk past someone I know needs a meal or a penny to get through another term of school. And He won’t be bothered I just ignored that needy person and walked right into church with hands held high as I sing “Hallelujah”.

Sitting right in front for my weekly ritual marked as “church” as the “man of God” takes his place. In front of an eager audience, each with their secrets and desires bottled in, concealed from the world.
The man of God who the previous evening had been in the bosom of a congregant, intoxicated after a rather heavy night of sensual satisfaction. Perhaps, a man of God who has taken vows to remain celibate but has a truckload of children and steady partners to deal with his lust. A man of God whose vision includes being wealthy, influential and enjoying the jet setting lifestyle of a celebrity.

We in the audience eagerly sit there so we can tick church off our weekly list of “things to do”. We sit in the pew after an abusive altercation with our spouses or lashing out at someone on the way to church. Hands raised again without thought of the misdeeds and illicit activities of the previous night!

A God that can forget all this and smile it away? Well I would want that kind of God to even run for president!

The kind that is not strict about thieving leaders, hypocritical politicians that promise to work for the people and forget this the minute they taste the luxuries of power.

A God who takes no issue with a man that batters his wife to pulp. Or the person gone crazy that kills another person without any sense of remorse or abhorrence.

If you love me, be glad when I’m happy!

The God we have been raised to know is saddened by my having a nice time. I cannot understand that. Is He not supposed to be happy for me?

Why would a night out partying, filled with booze, loud music and fun be an issue?

Why would He be saddened when a man or woman opts for another relationship outside marriage if it makes them happy? Why would He be unhappy with just one more abortion because a couple are not ready to raise a child but want to still have sex?

This God I have been told about is so strict and that is why in my mind He really has been full of “do’s and don’ts”. It’s either He wants you to do something or does not at all.

Problem is, He usually asks that you do what you don’t want. Stopping you from doing what you have found to be fun and enjoyable.

Just one more stare at that well shaped lady, perhaps a night out with drinks and whatever else follows! With all the flaws my partner has, why not enjoy some refreshing moments with the other man that sweeps me off my feet? He at least looks like he can fix things around the house, maybe put his stuff in the right place, surprise me with gifts and be the prince charming I want! A knight in shining armour!

She looks like the kind of woman I’d love. She’s fun, makes me laugh, turns heads when she saunters past and makes me feel young again.

I feel good about this. Now tell me, why would a God they say loves me have a problem with me feeling good? That is not my idea of love.

Taking charge my way

I want to be me, the king in my kingdom. I know what I love and what keeps me fired up. So this God inhibits me.

I want to scream in traffic when someone cuts in, airing my unprintables to vent my unrelated frustrations at someone.

I want to grin with pretentious joy, exposing all my teeth at someone but be the first to speak ill behind their back.

How about just the routine gossip about the way my office mate or neighbour dresses, walks or the differences they have in their home? After all, I am better than them somehow.

If I turn up in church one day, forget all these things I may have done or said. I’m holy that moment. Can’t you hear my voice churning out the praises? All else does not matter at that stage, let me worship and we carry on later with our usual life when we are done.

That is my life, the life I know. So even when I gossip, drink my head off, lust, lie or stab someone in the back, why would someone think it is wrong?

If I stole a few hours from work so I can be on facebook, chat in the corridor or idle around but expect my full pay, is it so bad? I reported and put in what’s need, at least the minimum.

That should suffice. But wait a minute, this God we’ve been told about has something to say here as well. He says I’m not being truthful and faithful. To who? Myself, others or Him? Why is it always about Him?

What does the world see, want and enjoy?

I cannot mask it. The world as it is longs for a God that has nothing against what we love. Alcohol, drugs, prostitution, extra-marital affairs, divorce, failed marriages, children out of wedlock, prejudice, corruption, neglected homes, absentee parents, homosexuality and grand hypocrisy. These are normal activities of our every day life and we do them effortlessly.

This is who we are and if we are fine as it is, why should we have a God that prefers to put a lid on all this? Where is the humour or love in such a draconian approach?

If it makes me happy and fulfilled, leave me be. After all, it is not like I am killing someone to be happy. I’m just playing my part.

The real story behind the scenes

Let us retrace our roots. Let us explore what we know of God. Let us undertake to know what He stands for, despises and cherishes. Let us examine also what we love and cherish.

What is pointed out above sounds ridiculous and makes you wonder how someone sane can state it so plainly. But with a closer assessment, it becomes evident that indeed that is what the world is saying.

We pursue our sensual appetites and choices, disregarding all that God stands for or calls us to. We know best and are wiser than He is. He does not understand the times we live in, how things have changed and how what was detestable centuries ago has become fashionable today. He hasn’t moved with the modern times.

Or perhaps it is a case of wanting a disposable God? One we can draw out when we need Him and are faced with daunting issues. When all is well, who needs Him? How many times do we scream to Him when jobless, hopeless, facing marital or financial pressures, in an accident, under attack or simply down! He’s our disposable choice.

We may as well tell God just that to His face. Our lives speak far louder than what we profess. Our habits, choices and attitudes say more about our God than we may know. Show me a person’s life, words, actions and I’ll show you their God.

In the end it always is one of two. Either there is a God and He is the one you follow willingly or there isn’t and you follow something or someone different.

If you follow Him, the responsibility lies with you to establish what He loves and why He guides us not to do certain things for our good. Then maybe out of love, we will follow rather than abide by a “do’s and don’ts” code.

If you do not follow Him, it remains your responsibility as well to ascertain the implications, cost and benefits of the decision.

Some things appear ridiculous when uttered but acceptable when done. We see this in our lives every day. How many people can raise a hand and accept that they worship the devil? But yet how many of us live in a manner that confirms this fact?

Let us take time to reflect on what our lives are saying about the kind of God we want. Is it the one that wants ultimate good for us and thus guides us? Or is it the one who can gladly look away as we delve into our chaos simply because we are “happy”?

What kind of God do you want? Is He consistent with what your life is saying?

 
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Posted by on October 27, 2012 in Opinion, Reflections

 

RSZ revocation: What are the next steps?

13 Sep

The Zambian Government has recently announced the revocation of the Railway Systems of Zambia (RSZ) Concession Agreement. The Agreement came into effect in February 2003 when RSZ took over assets from Zambia Railways Limited.

Under the Agreement, the effective tenure was 20 years for the freight business and 7 years for the passenger arm.

Who is RSZ?

RSZ is a company registered in Zambia that won the tender for the concessioning of Zambia Railways Limited.

The company is a subsidiary of NLPI Ltd which is an investment holding company registered in Mauritius with a focus on infrastructure development projects in Africa.

What is the Concession Agreement all about?

The stated intentions of the government when entering the agreement could be pointed to developing the railway network in the country. The network is one of the largest in the region with 900km mainline railways and 300km of branch line railway.

Key objectives of the agreement included:

– Reducing heavy cargo movement from the mines.
– Relieving the road network of cargo pressure and thus reducing deterioration.
– Reducing the cost of rail transportation.

What then becomes critical is to ascertain how the investor RSZ fared against these expectations. Information to determine this would be based on superficial observation and the government’s decision to revoke the agreement.

The Revocation: has RSZ failed?

According to the Minister of Finance, Mr Alexander Chikwanda, RSZ has mismanaged the infrastructure and destroyed railway assets during this period.

Evidence of this is given with reference to railway transportation becoming more expensive over time and high levels of derailment leading to loss of lives.

It is explicit that the government does not deem RSZ as a suitable partner to develop the railway network in the country

Therefore following the revocation, all assets were immediately passed on to Zambia Railways Limited, who took over the operations for the first time since 2003.

The government has committed to make resources available for continued daily operations and upgrading of infrastructure.

The unasked or unanswered questions

Following the announcement, several questions are inevitably raised. The fact that government resources will also be injected in operations makes it even more cardinal that clarity is provided.

What are the numbers saying?

First and foremost, from what we have read and heard, RSZ has lamentably failed to run the railway network it was responsible for. This is the easiest deduction to make with available information and indeed from a bystander perspective.

However, it also is important that it is determined what the financials say. Was RSZ making money? If so, how much and was it enough to meet all operational costs and invest in infrastructure? If not, was this raised as a concern and why did they still continue operating?

This may seem unimportant at this stage. It should not be. The insight it provides forms a premise for appreciating what resources will be required to run the railway network effectively in the long term.

Therefore the resource and cost question cannot be ignored or trivialised.

Cost to the taxpayer and treasury

Zambia Railways Limited was and is a parastatal company. It is for this reason that government will support operations after the compulsory acquisition. This simply means taxpayers will finance the operations for as long as the arrangement remains in place.

For purposes of transparency, the government will be obligated to divulge to the nation what the cost will be and likewise what the time frame will be for supporting the operations.

It is good practice for this to be done to ensure resources are appropriately budgeted for and utilised to avert any misapplication or unbudgeted spend that spirals out of control.

There are several dimensions that will come into play now. The scale of infrastructure investment required, maintenance of the network and daily operational costs.

Policy clarity and direction

If something is not working, it needs to be fixed. From the sentiments on RSZ thus far, it can be deduced that the arrangement has not added the anticipated value.

As a result, the compulsory acquisition was set in motion. This though is only one part of the piece.

What this calls for is a comprehensive and clear policy of what will be pursued not only for railway but the transport sector as a whole. Will the railway network be state run? Will the government privatise?

It cannot be disputed that the railway network specifically and transport sector overall are of significant strategic importance for an economy like Zambia’s. This is in light of the increased mining activities, ever growing road traffic and the pressure it puts on the road network. So there is an evident benefit and a savings opportunity in maintenance terms for instance, if rail is developed, offering relief on the roads.

One transport expert and former Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) MD, Mr Henry Chipewo, gives this some perspective. He notes that to rehabilitate 1km of a tarred road requires about K2bn (approx $400,000) while it would cost about K100m (approx $20,000) to rehabilitate 1km of a rail line.

The expectation then is for the government to outline what it intends to do in the short term leading on to long term aspirations.

This has the potential to set the tone for related benefits such as job creation and resource mobilisation through identification of the best suitors to invest in our railway.

Zambia can thus take a leaf from the British government which recently announced plans to invest up to £9bn in their railway network. This injection is earmarked for the period 2014-2019 but is already under discussion on which areas will be targeted, benefits to accrue and precise steps to generate the resources required.

The investor confidence dimension

One of the prominent cries when such action is taken is investor reaction. There is a school of thought that holds that investor confidence is shaken when steps such as this are embarked on.

In Zambia’s case, this dimension takes on even more importance coming on the back of the Lap Green/Zamtel, Finance Bank and Zanaco cases.

There could be a grain of truth that investors will be taking a keen interest in unfolding developments in Zambia to assess the suitability of the country as an investment destination. The challenge for government then becomes reassuring the investment world that these will not be the pattern or the advent of arbitrary takeovers of previously privatised entities. Additionally, statements from government must be coordinated and premised on policy rather than political rhetoric or populism.

On the other hand, actions like this may work to Zambia’s advantage. There is a likelihood that bogus investments will be curbed as close scrutiny will be paid to who will qualify as an investor. The ultimate objective of any investment is to safeguard the interests of citizens and derive developmental benefits for the nation.

It must be stated and agreed though that the approach in dealing with these matters must be well thought out without degenerating to alarmist proportions. Confidence and capacity must be built in our institutions to manage these decisions. For instance, one would curiously ask if RSZ have been accorded an opportunity to be heard? Again this may seem unimportant but it is fundamental.

The future is now

Undoubtedly, with all the activity in the mines and the heavy road traffic, investment in the rail network would be welcome.

This will not only provide relief on the roads or reduce road carnage, it will also stimulate job creation both in the short and long term. With infrastructure development, people will be needed. As the development takes root, people will be needed across the network in service roles, maintenance jobs and related areas that will interface with the railway system .

It is consideration of such areas that exposes the urgent yawning need for a comprehensive and integrated plan to revive this critical sphere.

Of course, the cost-benefit analysis must be religiously done and Zambia does not lack experts to steer this to completion.

The numbers must speak and it should not be far fetched to cut a trip from the Copperbelt to Lusaka to one hour on a bullet train! An exciting prospect.

Is government up for the challenge? We watch and wait.

 
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Posted by on September 13, 2012 in Economic, Opinion

 

Why aren’t “sinners” drawn to church?

10 Sep

I recently stumbled upon a posting by one lady on a marriage forum. She had made reference to Michelle Obama’s speech at the Democratic National Convention in the USA.

Michelle had rained accolades on her husband, walking the audience through the journey the First Couple had been on since courting and through marriage. The highs and lows of their relationship. I had briefly listened to a part of the speech and agree it was a powerful delivery, coated with humour to drive the point home.

The virtuous woman in a speech

Back to the lady’s posting though. She drew immense value from Michelle’s speech. Not for its delivery from a political perspective but rather the challenge it presented to her. Both as a christian and a wife. According to her, it had brought to life the virtuous woman and her role in a husband’s life.

What does this have to do with sinners being drawn to church?

The forum reacts

Some of the reactions on the forum made me think about “sinners” and church. In the context of why “sinners” find church unattractive and rebuffing.

There were some on the forum that questioned Michelle being cited as a role model. Others took issue with some of the questionable decisions Barack has made while serving as President of the US of A. The fact that interpretations were varied is healthy. However, the loss of value in the lesson that the lady had drawn from the speech was saddening.

There was a section of people that dwelled primarily on the perceived failings of the Obamas but neglected to decipher the opportunity to highlight the urgent need for virtuous women, wives supportive and proud of their spouses regardless of situations or the presence/absence of cameras.

From some sentiments on the forum, one would easily feel they were off track for picking a lesson from Michelle. Probably because she is a secular figure. I was impressed though that the lady held her own in re-stating the precise lesson the speech had offered.

A challenge to the christian

Therein lies the challenge that christianity and the gospel’s advancement face in wooing the “sinner”.

The way in which professed christians carry themselves has the potential to create a barrier between them and the lost. Make no mistake, this is not a call for compromise or not calling sin what it is. Rather it is the unconscious or adopted mentality that works to isolate the sinner.

Perfection, judgement and unworthiness

There is a seeming expectation of perfection that engulfs the sinner. It may appear that they are unworthy of church or anyone called christian. Thus they shy away rather than be made to feel like lepers, unwelcome and contaminating.

Coupled with this, there sometimes is a subtle tendency to be critical or judgemental of one that is not a member of the “club”. One that has been exposed to the depth of a secular life finds themselves feeling inadequate in the presence of christians believing their sinfulness is such filth among the “called”.

This creates a perception of self righteousness on the part of the sinner as they look at the christian. This works to scare away the very people that need church and the message of salvation.

With reference to the lady’s posting, comments went as far as stating that one needs to rest only on biblical truth and further questioned the motives of the Michelle speech.

For a feeble christian or a “lost soul”, this has the unfortunate potential of making them question themselves. Were they wrong to pick a lesson from a secular global figure? Did that moment corrupt them or tarnish their christianity? Did they err in seeing a biblical application for their lives off a speech delivered on a political platform?

Such moments can be catalysed by actions on either side. The expectation of the christian may portray them as perfect people and thus those that join their circle must be “clean” if there is such a thing.

On the other hand, it also can be triggered by the ignorance of the “sinner”, being in a position of not knowing that no one is righteous as far God is concerned. All have sinned. (Romans 3:10,23).

Handling a moment with the “sinner”

It becomes imperative then to establish how christians should handle those that have not come to faith. Each is a delicate opportunity to bring the “sinner” to the light. It also is a window that can be lost if there is the slightest hint of self-righteousness that pushes the sinner into an unworthy corner.

When the sinner feels judged and deemed unworthy, the result inevitably is withdrawal. This shuts the door on winning a soul. The Bible is clear on the position to be taken against sin. However, there must be a distinction between the manner in which a sinner is handled and that of a fellow christian steeped in or losing his/her way to sin.

Taking a leaf from the Master

I am reminded here of Jesus’ approach. I will cite four (4) cases that come to mind.

The first is Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-10. He knew where he stood and understood his condition. Yet Jesus singled him out and took him in. This obviously disarmed him while disconsenting observers that deemed him as a sinner. But the end result is clear. He was won over. No hint at all from Jesus of Zacchaeus not being worthy of Christ’s presence or time.

Let us look at the woman Jesus met at the well in John 4:7-9, 23,39-42 . It was culturally unacceptable for Jews to mingle with Samaritans. But this was not the foremost issue on Jesus’ mind. Instead He engaged her in a life transforming conversation after asking her for water. This too was a departure from the norm but as we get to the end of this passage, it is abundantly clear yet again what Jesus wanted to achieve.

Enter John 1:46-50 and we see Nathanael. He was not yet a disciple and made his thoughts explicit when told about Jesus. But Christ could evidently pick out a positive aspect about him to share with those around even before Nathanael’s acceptance!

Finally, I will use the example of the woman caught in adultery as recounted in John 8:3-11. Jesus’ focus as opportunity had presented itself was not to remind her of what she had been caught doing. He simply urged her to turn away from her sin having survived a lynching and condemnation.

These points I raise above serve to challenge every christian to emulate Jesus’ handling of the “sinner”. He embraced them and through His action, they opened themselves to receive the gospel without a feeling of unworthiness or a reminder of their filth, having found themselves among the pigs like the Prodigal Son.

An open cheque to accept sin?

Sin must not be condoned or its habitual head entertained. But the sinner must find an environment that welcomes him/her while working to encircle and convict him/her under the prayerful guidance of a mature christian.

The above points outline one area in need of improvement to fully exploit the moment created when a christian finds themselves in a sinner’s presence.

Same soul, different garments

The challenge goes further to the lifestyle of the professed christian. Unfortunately, many of us adorn this title like a garment. We want to be known as christians but our hearts and lives are nowhere near what we need to be. Either because we have never known where we need to be or our conversion has not occurred.

We therefore rely on our own understanding, abilities and orientation as we practice our so called christianity.

The moment there is no clear distinction between the saved and the lost, the sinner and the christian, it becomes a mountain to woo the sinner. After all, are the two sets of people not just the same?

This challenge transcends church or what we profess. It questions our ambitions, daily pursuits, conduct and even reaction to events in our lives or around us. If the perspective of the christian is driven by the same fuel, it is no wonder sinners will not be attracted to church or christianity.

The distinction must be there. But it is not one that is flashed in a sinner’s face for them to know they are lost. It is one that is spoken by the unspoken through attitude, lifestyle and one’s conduct.

The Christian mission

The ultimate call of every christian is to win souls for Christ. To make the world a better place based on following Jesus. If that is the intent and focus of the church, then an opportunity with a sinner will be considered delicate and precious without prejudice, judgement or isolation.

Instead, Jesus’ approach will take precedence with the sole intention of leading one to see the light.

Forget the theology, historical orientation or church position on such issues. Think Jesus, think salvation of one’s soul then move believing God will work His way. I tend to believe now that perhaps christianity and the gospel have been overly complicated. Corrupted by human interpretations, preferences or doctrinal inclinations.

This has resulted in the creation of classes even when unseen. A classification of “them and us”, making church and christianity a no-go area for those outside the “club”. As a result, the very lost that need to hear the good news shy away.

Was I won over?

As I thought about that lady’s lessons derived from Michelle’s speech, I strongly realised the urgent need of taking time to view every moment as an opportunity to offer someone a lifeline. I was simply reading the postings on the forum but noticed the automatic divide which made it easy to conclude that she had erred to cite Michelle’s speech as an inspiration to be a virtuous woman.

And I was simply in the sidelines and yet felt the divide or form of rebuke. I was happy though that the lady had seen a window to let scripture come to life through a secular example and speech.

I was also glad that I have a different journey, learning new things and undergoing spiritual rehabilitation.

Otherwise, I’d have been one to simply slip away silently into the lost world thinking “this is not for me. I’m too sinful and they cannot take me in”.

Who knows? Maybe someone could have slipped away just like that instead of being drawn to seek and know the Truth?

 
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Posted by on September 10, 2012 in Reflections, Spiritual

 

Madiba, God and us

24 Jul

It is always a daunting challenge to embark on a commentary about Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. So much has been documented and said that very little can be added that will be different. However his life and iconic stature still loudly offers more insights, lessons and challenges for all of us.

July 18 has become an internationally acclaimed and United Nations (UN) sanctioned holiday. This is in celebration of the contribution Madiba has made to humanity in his life time. He remains one of the most fortunate individuals that have lived to be honoured in uncountable ways while they are alive. This year, the world’s most admired statesman celebrated his 94th birthday and as usual the goodwill was overflowing from across the globe.

I have thought several times about how this great life has been a cherished part of our generation. It always vividly makes me realise how much we can learn not only from Mandela but even beyond his life.

Some leadership notes

Undoubtedly, one of the key pickups from Madiba’s political life is in the leadership arena. He has been a strong player in politics and leadership arena on account of what he has achieved. His political career climaxed in 1994 when he became the first black president in post-apartheid South Africa.

For a continent that had become accustomed to leaders that had to be forced out of office, he charmed the world when he opted to quit the trappings of power, resigning after a single term as president in 1999.

What do we have to learn here? For starters, I think Madiba has shown us all his public life that you need to stand on principle and ideology. He believed that no race should dominate the other and for that he stood ready to die. Even when opportunity presented itself for him to be conditionally released, he declined it if his people would not be free.

This is a rare quality the world is in desperate need of today. Leadership is intertwined and bedrocked on serving humanity. Our generation has been exposed to corruption, self-serving and detached leaders. Most of the time, the drama and exchanges we see in leadership has no value for the common man. But if leaders have no mindset and heart to serve, that will not matter and what we see will be the norm.

Madiba is human and has his flaws. He too has been criticised on some points during his presidency. However, the manner he led has left a lasting impression. A man that lost his life, family and comfort, isolated for 27 years in prison, has every right to be bitter. He walked to freedom, assumed an office of power and used his influence to unite a nation past its hurts, atrocities and failures. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission achieved so much in driving this agenda. There were other brains and stakeholders that made it work but Madiba’s agenda and leadership was equally instrumental. After all, he had all the power to persecute and cage the white folk that had kept him behind bars for two decades!

Today, the whole world has taken note and celebrates this.

We need to all look around ourselves in our varying roles. In politics, business, church and homes, what do we stand on in our leadership roles? Are we selfless and interested in the ultimate good of the people? That is the essence of leadership.

Madiba stood tall. Beyond the pain, he wisely knew which battles to fight in. The people’s unity was of paramount importance compared to his need to avenge his misery.

There was a bigger cause and his selflessness was unmistakable as he went further to even sacrifice a third of his salary while in office.

How does God come in?

The lessons Madiba’s life offers transcend politics and leadership. They reflect a great need humanity has for God.

Mandela remains a shining example that every “who is who” personality wants to be associated with across the globe. Celebrities and influential leaders seem to clamour for any opportunity to have a picture or audience with Madiba. His birthday is a reflection of that as different powerful people pay courtesy calls on him at his retirement home in Qunu.

With all the good Madiba has achieved, he has failed to rid the world of evil, selfishness and chaos. So many people worldwide acknowledge his stature, qualities and achievements but it ends there. Even some of his closest followers within the African National Congress (ANC) for instance are steeped in power fights, corruption cases and failures. It even goes beyond the ANC, across Africa and the globe. We have seen that it is possible to believe in something and serve humanity with good. But we see too that we have the Assads in Syria that can pulverise their own people to keep a hold on power.

This should tell us something deeper. A great man’s example has not provided impetus for everyone to do good. The rot and ills continue to ravage the world.

Our hearts are still in a mess even with a rich human example as provided by Madiba. Even those close to him are not necessarily following the lead he provided.

The corruption, wars, failures and agony continue inspite of Madiba’s life. This is simply because humanity’s challenge and problem is deeper than we seem to accept. Not a single human being can rectify this condition. All must look to something greater to deal with this chronic ailment.

That is where God comes in. What He stands for, cherishes and offers has an unmatched and crafted solution to what we face. The fact that we fail to adopt those standards entails that we remain in our condition of negativity. The world’s stage has been graced by many admirable people but it may appear it’s state has worsened. Abraham Lincoln, Mother Theresa, Princess Diana, Mahatma Ghandi, or Mandela himself are all such people and yet the world still battles against its shortcomings.

Imagine just for a moment that we all stood for what God cherishes? We would have no war. No corruption, rape, Gender Based Violence, murder, leadership failures or any other societal ills we can think of. But then we face them simply because these are standards we choose to ignore, preferring instead our own adopted yardsticks, a perfect recipe for failure.

This should challenge each one of us to undertake a soul search and introspection. To enable us know ourselves and limitations. To understand what drives us, what we lack and what keeps us from being a reflection of what God intended when He created us. How far off from the standard are we and what is our hope and required action for that good to be a reality?

All roads should and must lead to God after such an introspection.

A deceived lot?

Unfortunately, this poses its own challenge and seems to be more difficult in reality.

The standards that God enshrines are not an attractive option. Humanity boasts in its own achievements and belittles anything to do with God. Anything Godly is archaic, unintelligent and laughable.

We see this in what we treasure. For instance, the world adorns the cross as a fashionable piece around the neck. But it totally ignores the message that comes with the cross meant to heal the world of its rot. The world can celebrate and market the Ark but be silent on Noah’s example as a righteous man.

Jesus is a widely acclaimed and mentioned personality but His reason and story for walking the earth is an unattractive public proposition. As such, we battle on with our addictions, character flaws, failures and weaknesses. Even when we lead in our workplace, homes, public service and personal lives, we are flops from the onset. Simply because at our core lies a weak foundation.

We must believe in something and stand for it. Madiba is a hero today because he followed through on his conviction and the world responded. We celebrate him as outstanding and must also be challenged to believe in something.

However, Madiba is human even though he has added so much value to the world. He stood for something and many now clamour to be associated with him.

The challenge then should be that isn’t God’s agenda more important? Yet many of us would rather be distant from Him because it is not so attractive to be associated with Him. Facebook would be awash with pictures taken with celebrities and the powerful or influential like Madiba but we shy away from being identified with God or the famous Jesus Christ. That should say a lot about us, our choices and priorities.

The real issue

July 18 sees a lot of dedication and publicity as people celebrate a great man’s life. But fundamentally, it must also pose an alive challenge for us to believe in something that will outlive us. A legacy for posterity to yield lessons from.

That would guarantee that the motivation behind all we do is rooted in something stronger than egotism or self serving interests and ulterior motives.

67 minutes of PR?

I am totally won over by the rationale behind the 67 minutes to celebrate Madiba’s public service. But it leaves me questioning whether we see beyond the day and cameras.

Is this a day we simply do things to be captured by the news crew? For individuals, is it a feel good act just like offering alms? For corporates, is it an opportunity for publicity as a responsible corporate citizen?

Everyone of us must be challenged beyond the 67 minutes. We must embark on good out of the love deep in us. A desire to better the lives of those under our charge at home and our vicinity. A commitment to do good even when the cameras and TV news crews are long gone.

That is the challenge Madiba presents knowingly or otherwise. While he was stuck in prison, he impacted lives to an untold extent. Motivating others to soar above their woes, investing time in reading and learning, perhaps even more than we may have come to know.

That too is a bigger challenge presented by God. He calls us to do things out of love as faithful servants. When we veer our own direction, all else falls apart and what we see is our constant grappling with humanity’s present day challenges. Murder, theft, poverty, corruption and variations of human failure stemming from loose standards that can’t prevent these ills.

As long as it remains as it is, doing good will be a PR exercise! Madiba and the 67 minutes initiative is a great legacy but commercialisation and a hunger for publicity endangers the principle and may dilute what it is meant to achieve or awaken the world to. Good should be at our core for the sake of our fellow man and not for cosmetic reasons when cameras are flashing.

Madiba: a legacy of action

As July 18th drew to its close, I was left reflecting on what rich lessons Madiba presents to our generation.

Firstly, it is the challenge to stand for something we believe in, bigger than our circumstances and interests. Such that even when presented with power and influence, we do not use it for our agenda but for common good.

Further, Madiba with all his fame, respect and influence has still not cured the world of its ills. This should point us to a need for a more permanent and sustainable solution to bring the best out of each one of us. That can only be possible if we embrace God’s standards. And paradoxically, that seems to be our biggest challenge, embracing this God and His values.

Finally, it begs the question of how we use our stature and influence in society. We all have circles of influence, others more than the rest. How do we use these positions of privilege? Can we be Madibas in our own small way? Do we use the roles to serve ourselves? Do we recognise the need to acknowledge God and in humility submit so that He is glorified? Or does our pride set in as we believe we are our own masters and achieve all we do through our abilities?

These are questions that should matter to Madiba for as long as he is alive, to us as we serve in our different vocations and ultimately challenge us to believe and act for the good of mankind.

Madiba is human but has achieved so much. Collectively, we should be able to do more to make this a better world based on our belief in God and a motivation stronger than human role models.

Are you up for the challenge?

 
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Posted by on July 24, 2012 in Opinion

 

Farewell ol’ Jack, goodbye daddy!

03 Jul

The pain is indescribable and the resultant loss a sore feeling. The gnawing effect on the heart has untold misery as a companion.

The day 29th June 2012 enveloped us in its darkness when you breathed your last. A part of me had warned me that this moment would come but it’s never an easy situation to deal with. Seeing you in that hospital bed and noting the breathing motion perhaps gave me a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, you would make it back to us.

Alas on this day, it dawned that you would not be making it back. Instead you had crossed over to the other side of life.

Memories of an ever present father

All I have left, as the rest of the family has, are the memories of the time we spent with you. I have had the joy of calling you daddy, observing your life, learning from you and appreciating what you went through or endured for all of us.

Yes you were human and had your faults, don’t we all? But I remember a man that had humour, a man that held it as priority that his family was provided for, a father that did not rest until he knew his children were in school.

Throughout my childhood, to my teens and early adulthood, you have been a consistent presence in my life. Being my father, guiding, providing and teaching in your own silent, sometimes unknown, ways. As I grew older, you even entrusted me with an advisory role, preparing me for my responsibilities as a man. Whether you deemed it deliberate and fit to usher me on that journey or it just fell in place, I do not know. All I do know and cherish is that you taught me.

I hold so many things dear that your presence taught me. The value of family even when things failed. The essence of marriage even when tested but still keep the vows. The unmatched attachment to family and ensuring to the last drop that all hope is not lost. The importance of investing in your children’s heritage through providing an opportunity for an education.

I can go on daddy to outline all the cherished moments and what they mean to me. From the small to the enormous. I still remember that I drive today because you taught me, patiently so, as I got behind the wheel for the first time under your fatherly gaze.

Not all were good times but that matters less because what remains overwhelmingly vivid are the good times shared with you.

The persevering man

When times threw you off and subsequently all of us, giving up was the easier option. But even then, you got up each morning to earn a living and keep smiles on our faces. I never realised how stressful and burdensome it was until later in life when I had my own responsibilities to face.

Respect was the only thing I had left in me. For a man that endured the battering of life’s doldrums and did not throw in the towel. Just so an extra kwacha could support our education, put a meal on the table and at least just try not to concede defeat. Little did I know, all this was a drain on you even as you muscled your way through this treacherous episode.

Images are still so clear of you walking home with a plastic of goodies on a good day, haggard and drained on a bad day or even with a newspaper bought with your last monies so I could read something when I was jobless.

When times were rough, we hopped through different homes and leaking roofs in an incomplete structure we came to call home. But even in those moments, you got up and carried us along, one more step, one more try.

I have looked back to those years and moments with a lot to learn. There is no giving up in this life. You didn’t have to tell me that daddy. You lived it and I saw it.

The best friend I should have had

Now I have valley moments when I kick myself for the time lost. The time I should have worked on deepening our relationship even more, so we could be closer friends. I do not want to regret some of the formal father-son interactions we may have had. They too had their place.

I do wish though that we could have made the most of what we had to be more personal, have more laughs, watch a game of soccer together, have a drink and take a drive going nowhere.

But I opt not to wallow in those regrets. Instead, with a sob and wet eyes, I smile as I recall the precious times we did share. The laughter, chats, visits and even in your weakened state, I hold dear our visit to the Chishimba Falls. Sitting there and just watching the waters pound the rocks was such a joy. There should have been more of those but what we got we are grateful for.

It may not have been as my mind fathoms but you were a pal in your own right daddy.

Failure and the pain of lost opportunities

What hurts me the most to this day is what I never had chance to do. Or perhaps I did but never did enough. You did all you could to provide for us but I don’t feel I have ever come close to paying you back if there is such a thing.

In my mind, I wanted you and mum to enjoy a comfortable life as you aged. With no anxieties about what to eat or what the following day offers, resting well and knowing your children will take care of you.

Alas, life has dealt us a heavy blow. This vision and dream has not come to life. You departed before it could come alive.

The last year and half before your last breathe is even more painful. When external family elements came in, taking you away from home and I could not fight it. Neither could any one of us for the sake of family ties and unity. Little did we know that somehow, it would be you it all hurts in the crossfire. Or maybe we knew but were helpless.

I was ready to challenge it but elderly wisdom implored me not to. That was not the life I had wished for you. That was not what I had wanted for the man I owed and owe all that I am and can be.

But that is what came our way. It had no effect on our or my love for you. Through it all, it gave us opportunity to embrace you and all you had come to represent in our lives. The way you had nurtured and provided for us was what your situation called us to do. The roles had been reversed.

It hurt to imagine you away from a familiar home for a prolonged time. It came close to depression seeing you struggle with memory and recognition with the slurred speech as you communicated. But seeing you each time diluted all these negatives. At least you were there and we could come over and see you.

You recognised me and chatted in your own unclear way last November when we visited. And you expressed your delight as did I. Little did I know that would be the last chat we’d have.

My heart bleeds each time I ask myself why I did not do more. What I could do more than I did. Could I have influenced things to make your latter days better? To alleviate any reason for misery or feeling of neglect you may have dealt with being so far off. We all did what we could for you but deep in my being, I will never be satisfied. For all you did for me, for us, I will always feel I should have done more.

As I saunter through each day, even though now you are gone, I keep wishing I had one more day with you. One more chance just to give you some rest from life’s battering and offer comfort that would reward you for all the burdens carried on your shoulders for our sake.

This nagging feeling always reminds me what a failure I have been, simply because this dream never came true and I never did all I wanted to for you daddy.

That opportunity is now lost. But even in your eternal sleep, you teach me. I will be the best daddy for the girls, a great husband I can be , be there for the family, provide for them and also take care of mummy so you can rest well knowing you ran a good race. You left us equipped for life and nailed in a lesson not to let opportunities to do good slip away. Life can be sucked out of us in a second.

The final request granted

The fact remains that life is not our own to hold onto and it can be taken in a flash. I know this and cannot ignore this truth.

When I got the reports that you were not well, no amount of assurance gave me peace. What mattered more than anything else was abundantly explicit. I had to come to you.

Seeing you unconscious with no response to my or anyone’s presence was devastating. The only consolation I had was knowing that at least you were alive. But the emaciated frame struggling to breath on that bed deflated my soul as I could only stand there helplessly.

While all along I wanted to do something or could, this time I knew it was beyond me. Still I hoped that you would stir to life and stare at me or point out something with your gestures as you communicated something to me. Alas it wasn’t to be.

A part of me prepared me for the inevitable. What we thought was a mild stroke was not. It was severe and you were in a coma. With the previous stroke still showing its effects and your deterioration, this was the final blow daddy. The only thing that kept you there was God’s timing and your inner will to hold on.

Even as I left a day after seeing you, I broke down because I was not sure I would see you alive again. But still I took the request to God, to grant me one last opportunity to do something of extreme importance.

Thankfully, it is a request He granted and with only a day in between leaving you, I did come back. This time not alone but with little sis Nkuka. Mubanga and mum were there so all your three children and wife among others were all there with you.

Tears of hope

The one important thing I needed to do was to share my realisation. I had taken time off work to be by your side regardless of your condition. Simply because I was now convinced there were much more cardinal things in life.

One of those was what one does with their lives here on earth and where the hereafter is lived. I had come back daddy simply to whisper John 3:16 to you in your unconscious state. This was my request to God and I further hoped and still pray He wrought a miracle with this little seed. Only He can water and provide the fruit.

Rubbing your head softly as you struggled to breath or just holding your limp and lifeless hand was enough for me under the circumstances. It could not make up for all the lost opportunities in the long gone past but I was happy to be there with you each day.

That fateful Friday, I saw you first thing in the morning and at lunch. I should have known that was the last I was seeing you alive and that indeed was goodbye. Circumstances conspired strangely but I did not read what was coming.

Odd things happen I suppose when one nears the end. I visited at lunch which I was not doing, mum delayed her usual trip back at 16hrs after a bath and we were kept out of the ward later that day as accident victims were brought in. I opted to take a drive alone, listening to relaxing jazz as I dealt with the reality of your condition. Those should have been the telling signs that the inevitable appointment had come.

29th June 2012 at 17:30hrs, God brought the curtain down and you were no more.

I took it like a man. I had to. I was sad I had missed you by a few minutes. Sad I could not say goodbye. As I got back and stood at the ward entrance staring at bed # 7, it sank in that truly you were gone daddy.

I did not know whether to scream, kick something or just walk away. The man I had come to know as daddy was no more.

Lessons in death

At that moment, my mind opened to more lessons from your life and now your demise. Firstly, it is always easy to tell someone to be thankful to God in all things. My time had come to practice that and so with pain and tears, I thanked God for your life.

Secondly, we are all inherently selfish. I realised that you had suffered daddy and needed to rest. I selfishly wanted you alive but your journey had come to its end. Sometimes I had prayed that if God wills that you make it, we’d have to make amends for what you had endured. And if He opted for the contrary, He should not keep you alive in that agonising state. I guess He knows best and decided to take you.

Thirdly, I have learnt that being christian does not make me perfect. It does not take away my emotions or hurt. But it means I come to God in honest submission with the burden I carry, tears I drop, bitterness I feel and an array of emotions. And with them I realise that all the strength, encouragement and grace I need is from Him. So I have cried, I hurt and have felt so bitter but I know too not to complain but be thankful. I received the gift of your presence in my life and perhaps took it for granted all my life. I cannot drown in complaints now that the situation is painful.

Finally, we must utilise every opportunity possible to be reconciled to God and make peace. It was sobering that I had to share the essence of christianity and salvation as per John 3:16 with you in an unconscious state. This must be a priority for all of us that remain alive as we do not know when God will pull the plug. I remain hopeful that you received the message and
God has done with it what the Word can do, penetrating deep into your unconsciousness (Hebrews 4:12) and not returning void (Isaiah 55:11).

As we stared at you in that casket, shed our tears of sorrow and escorted you to your resting place, I know I did it in and with hope.

Those were tears of hope and I am grateful I came to you before you were gone. Thankful that God is who He is and granted us the gift of you.

I cried because it hurt to part with you. But I also cried because I remained with an alive assurance that you were starting another journey, a better one this time.

I have no idea what happens when one dies or where they go immediately. I do believe however that there is an afterlife. Whichever the case, I hope you are better out there daddy and looking down with pride, satisfaction and a hope that we will join you some day.

Farewell ol’ Jack. Goodbye daddy. I’ll always love and admire you.

 
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Posted by on July 3, 2012 in Family matters, Parenting

 

Long distance marriages: A price too high?

29 Jun

Life has a peculiar way of offering lessons. At an opportune time, we find ourselves paying attention to what did not necessarily matter previously.

This is the situation I find myself in as I note the changes in marriage in this modern era. Nowadays lifestyle choices such as cohabiting, remote parenting or marriage with partners apart have all become common place. More of a norm than exception.

Remote parenting and married partners living apart is a situation I am familiar with. As career opportunities arise, decisions come along with them. One such opportunity and decision presented itself to me over a year ago.

After discussions, concerns, consultations and prayer, my wife and I agreed it was an opportunity worth pursuing. One part of the puzzle was sorted, we were in agreement. The other part was the testing one as it meant my relocation 400km from Lusaka and away from the family. It was a gamble we took hoping within a year of two homes and weekend visits, it would become clearer and easier for us to get together as a family. As I write this piece, the status has not changed.

Interestingly, I have met several colleagues in this similar situation. It has become apparent that most couples are now opting for such arrangements to pursue their careers and what we have come to define as success, the fruit of our sweat, training, experience and an inevitable path.

Who is winning here?

But as we have come to know the dual principle of life, if one side is gaining, is there another losing?

To answer such a thought provoking question requires us to analyse either side.

As such, we need to establish what has led to this hitherto unfamiliar trend. Some of the more frequent reasons or justifications are explored in the subsequent paragraphs.

Education and career options- The last few years have seen a phenomenal surge in people acquiring a decent education. The universities and colleges continue churning out hundreds or thousands of degree and diploma holders annually.

This has resulted in more people being open minded, opinionated and receptive to risk or unusual options such as distance marriages.

Additionally, this has meant a proliferation of graduates and professionals in the field of business or commercial disciplines among the main ones. Therefore, vocations like we saw in our forefather/mother times of nursing and teaching have been overtaken by the commercially oriented ones. This has meant opportunities arise in several different geographical locations and spouses find it hard to always push for transfers.

An empowered women movement- Our womenfolk have made tremendous progress as far as their education and careers are concerned. We today see women heading businesses, driving strategy and playing an active part in decision making.

This has subtly shifted power or authority bases even in households as we see more women embrace their independence. It has apparently led to an interpretation that education and/or relatively high incomes entail surrender of leadership in the home.

Thus, the last say is no longer necessarily the man’s call especially where his income is lower, the wife’s corporate position more prestigious or even worse, he is unemployed. The balance has been altered as one’s gender is not the basis for leadership. Other factors have tossed the man’s pants out as a precondition for headship in the home.

Supplementary incomes- There is an argument for a couple to both earn from their jobs so as to boost available income in the home. It seems almost laughable and unacceptable these days to suggest that one spouse can work and support the family. The belief is that both should work and put monies together.

This argument even gains stronger credence as family projects take prominence. Young couples these days are working quickly to build houses, purchase showroom vehicles and put their children in decent
schools for a quality education. To sustain this lifestyle and its demands, the argument for dual income has been effectively fuelled.

Therefore, the thought of surviving on one spouse’s income is not only unattractive but is even deemed almost impossible or an avoidable source of financial pummelling and stress.

Job opportunities- With the flood of graduates raining each year, the demand for jobs is overwhelming. The opportunities are agonisingly few emanating in permeating desperation among job seekers.

After a long wait for a job and one comes along, very few have the option of turning opportunities down. Most employers know this well and are alive to the fact that if one job seeker does not fill a vacancy, there is a train of others waiting. This is a fact that any job seeker cannot afford to ignore unfortunately.

Following on this point then, when any opening arises either early in one’s career as the first job or for furthering one’s career, the price it comes at seemingly matters less. Whether one must be away from family for a lift in monthly pay or uproot the family to take a new job, the only thing that seems to matter then is a perception that progress lies in embracing the new job.

For as long as jobs are scarce, career opportunities away from home will be a daunting challenge and turning them down extremely testing.

Technology and changing times- Over the decades, technology has registered unprecedented growth. The world has seen and enjoyed an array of developments that enhance the quality and efficiency of life.

This technology has combined fluidly with the modern times we are in. The changing times have given reason to most people to highlight the difference with the centuries of old in terms of marital arrangements and choices.

With the advent of sophisticated mobile phones, Skype, Facebook, WhatsApp and a host of other communication alternatives, it may seem distance is not a challenge. Couples are in touch any minute in a flash and this dilutes the adverse impact of being apart. The distance then does not pose a huge challenge for modern day couples.

Peer pressure- This may seem a strange reason. But it does play a potent part in determining if a couple should live apart. For women, in the current quest for equality, their close associates and relatives may remind them that they are at par with the husband, have their careers to pursue or should not depend on a man.

Similarly for the man, consideration has to be made for advice not to sacrifice their job to be with family while the wife works because they must be the ones to provide. Various other pieces of advise will be given that feed into a couple’s decision making and if they are not strong in their personal resolve, they will be living by the preferences of other people they are not married to.

The above brief insights reflect some plausible reasons that are catalysts in decisions to be apart.

However, we will also need to look at the mirror side of distance marriages to appreciate both schools of thought.

Back to basics- We need to know and explore the rationale of marriage. It is stated from the time of the institution’s inception that two people become one when they marry.

This is the formation of a home and together the couple build on this and remain together ideally. The question thus becomes whether this building can be attained when a couple live apart and only see each other every weekend or stay in touch via phones or the internet.

Emotional and sexual connection- It is well documented that ideally when a couple is young in marriage and age, this should be their peak in consolidating their bond. The couple are at the cardinal stage of knowing each other, accepting their different personalities and also enjoying their sexual union as frequently as their tender age and appetites can sustain.

When a choice results in being physically away from each other, it is a fallacy to think bonding will not in any way be affected. The degree to which it does can be mitigated by deliberate effort by the couple to stay connected. But it is a fact that there is no substitute for physical presence even in bond building and sexual union.

Temptation and disease- The world we live in now has exposed us to sensual complexity. It is not unusual for women to hunt for men or either sexes to opt for alternative lifestyles or having people in extramarital and multiple affairs.

With this dimension, it so happens that when a marriage is not fortressed, the little cracks will open for temptation to set in. The crafty and opportunistic female colleague or male associate that has an inkling of the marital arrangement, will take advantage and slip in. This may happen subtly and unknowingly or even so clearly.

The end results are always there for us to see. Affairs spring up, marital conflicts, separation and divorces, pregnancies and on the extreme the contraction of fatal conditions such as HIV/AIDS which lead to death.

Children and disrupted privileges- It is widely accepted that children are a blessing from God. This reward is incomparable and it is such a joy to mould them into admirable grown ups.

However, when a couple resign themselves to a life apart, this parental role will be affected undoubtedly. The children require the presence of their parents as the initial role models they have in their formative stage.

The hours may be split between work demands and home but on a consistent basis, the parental presence will be available daily. Its importance for both children and parents cannot be questioned.

The children live with examples to follow as they observe their parents on one hand. On the other hand, parents have the rare privilege of observing their children’s developmental progress and intervention can be quick and timely where needed. This is almost impractical when one parent is away from the home 5-6 days at a time each week.

I found it rather sobering as I assessed my predicament. If I visit my family every weekend, spending a full Saturday and half the day Sunday, I am losing 22 days each month and 264 days a year!! That is over 70% of family time lost, never to be recovered. So for something that matters so much to me, I only have 30% time for it.

Spiritual development- This is the most neglected and undermined factor that has an untold impact on a home. Modernity and extraneous pressures have shoved spirituality to the back almost effectively clothing it as archaic and old fashioned with no place in the 21st century.

This cannot be further from the truth. God will be God for as long as we exist and His principles will remain ageless. No matter how much effort is put into ignoring Him, this is always at the peril of the human race. We see it in today’s world as successive generations melt away in moral decay, covetousness and a life of futility.

When parents are spiritually weak or in a spiritual coma, they have no capacity to
pass on the most important heritage to their children. This is aggravated more where parents are not together to drive this agenda. They do not themselves attach importance to such a priceless treasure. They are also apart to lay the spiritual foundation together.

The impact then is on the children too. What takes the place of values, principles and morality when there is no standard taught to these children? There is a void that inevitably is and will be filled by peers, celebrity role models, entertainment and whatever fads they are exposed to. Additionally, absentee parents subordinate and delegate their role to maids or relatives that their children spend more time with than they do.

If the spiritual foundation is cracked or absent, it remains for us to determine what will influence our children as they grow. Not only that, we too will need to be aware of our void and its implications on our lives and choices.

Which side are you on?

In the final analysis, a couple must consider all factors before them to arrive at a decision. The ultimate question is a reflection of priorities in their collective life. Is it the extra money or the bond? Is it the career or the home? Is growing together paramount or remote connections suffice?

We all have different reasons for making such choices. Justifications too are commonplace but in the end, the period it takes with a family divided physically, is of extreme importance. Should the separation even be considered in the first place? Or should it be but only for a little while?

Ultimately, the couple will decide. It is my considered view though that the motivation and priority must be based on three critical things.

Firstly, the marriage and relationship of the couple. Secondly, the children and their character moulding. Finally, the importance of a home and the environment it should provide.

These are fundamental considerations even as we consider reasons to back our decisions such as:

“We need the extra income.”

” It is for the good of the children and our future.”

“It won’t be too a long a stay. Tom or Jane was also in the same situation and within a year he/she was back.”

“At least we just need to make sure we stay in touch, call the kids often and visit weekends! That way, your absence won’t be felt much.”

“Times have changed these days and it is normal for a couple to live apart because of work”

“Absence makes the heart grow fonder. A couple will differ and fight less but instead enjoy each other if they are apart and meet after a while.”

Marriage, family and the children’s holistic development are of more critical importance than career or extra income.

Talking to my girls when I call always brings this realisation home for me. The tone of their voices, the piercing words “I miss you” or “When are you coming?” remain loud in my head long after I have spoken with them. When I visit home, the effect it has on them is so evident that it leaves me guilty for depriving them of what they deserve.

I have no doubt having been in this situation for over a year that distance marriages are not a healthy undertaking for any couple.

We can see that marriages and homes are under attack. It is a subtle assault and hence it passes almost unnoticed but results may well be devastating.

The factors are varied, choices personal and rationale peculiar with every couple. Overall, however, I believe marriages and homes must be insulated from the shock of distance.

We may not appreciate the immediate scale or impact that remote marriages have but when we open a keen eye and look around, concern is inevitable.

 
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Posted by on June 29, 2012 in Family matters, Marriage

 

Cry our beloved youth

28 Jun

When pupils take to the street

I watched the 19 hrs news on 18th of June in awe as pupils vented their anger, burning whatever they could and blocking the road.

Kitwe boys pupils were rioting and police intervention was required to quell the protests. From a distance, one would not be faulted to assume there was a justifiable reason for this reaction. Zambia has seen such riots before in the past, mostly a reaction to teacher strikes.

This protest though was a shocker. The pupils were not happy with the school rules and the strictness they were handled with. Initially, when I heard this I was convinced I had mixed up the information given during the news.

When time, discipline and attitude are elusive

Our dear pupils preferred to report for school after 8 in the morning and were strongly opposed to the half 7 or earlier.

There is much inference one can make of this. Firstly, we must be worried about the crop of youth we are grooming. Secondly, if this continues and we have no coordinated and spirited interventions, the future is as bleak as a winter morning.

Finally, listening to some of the pupils express their grievances and coincidentally some recent assessments I have made of some teachers, the quality of education and relevant impact of our education system is a huge source of concern.

I will expand on each point.

A train off the tracks

For starters, the youth as reflected in the protesting pupils must at this stage of their lives be sharpening their discipline. This is in terms of time keeping, focus and respect.

Most of us have all been in educational institutions and know the discipline school demands. To want to report a little later raises eyebrows! This is because if we spoke to any of these youngsters, most likely we would not get any plausible reason that would win us over to their side. It could well just be a blatant reflection of rebellion and an aggressive seed of laziness. An extra hour or two in bed or outside class for more chat time than get started with learning.

This then is an indication of an attitude likely to be transferred into the professional world should this breed make it. Or worse, this is the rebellious mindset that will hit the streets of society when frustrated with the rules and discipline of school.

An urgent call for intervention

Further, if these are the warning signs of a storm brewing, then the need for intervention through guidance and character moulding is urgent.

It is not uncommon these days to see youth staggering in broad daylight or in the evening, intoxicated. It is not unusual to have youth on the wrong side of the law. It is almost normal to see youth derailed by early pregnancies, STDs/AIDS and a host of societal ills that continue to plague our country. The disillusionment is so clear.

I have on several occasions run into youth that sadden me when I decipher the choices they have made so early on in their lives. A life of weak morals, excessive alcohol intake, cigarettes, sagged slacks(jeans) and empty chats along the road as the opposite sexes whisper sweet nothings that inevitably result in broken hearts, teen pregnancies, AIDS, street kids, “one parent” children and ultimately a dysfunctional society as we see it today.

It has always been my view that our society requires a holistic and sustainable approach to defeat this cancer.

The interventions start with the home set up. What we see in parents, guardians and older folks must show us what it means to set an exemplary life in motion. However, if and when our default role models are drowning in immorality, “sugar daddy/mummy” affairs, multiple homes, children out of wedlock, divorces, domestic neglect and absent or anaemic spiritual lives, is it a wonder we see what we do in the current crop of youth?

In the absence of this strong foundation and pillar, technology has filled the void via internet, gadgets, entertainment and a host of options that are an active part of our modern youth.

The education system must also as a matter of urgency review its curricula to incorporate character moulding. Character ideally should be built in a home. This may not be the case now with children getting into school at 2 or 2 and half or being brought up by maids (perhaps relatives) because parents are pursuing busy careers and therefore absent from the home. This suggests the foundation being laid is either by the maids(or relatives) or through the education system.

Parents only have enough time to say hi to the kids after work and goodnight as the kids retire to bed.

As such, if a child is in school, the foundation will be laid there as the teacher will be a cardinal element in the child’s development. This challenges our education system to ensure part of the curriculum addresses character moulding to plant the necessary seed that will yield positive fruit as the youth swim into society.

Is the current system delivering what it should?

This brings me to my final point. The quality of education received and mode of delivery also raises a need to review its effectiveness.

I listened to two unrelated pupil interviews on the 18th and 19th of June on the news. Coincidentally, days before I had a rare glimpse of teachers, their writing and reasoning. What is the concerning attribute in both you may be asking?

Calibre. The articulation of issues, reasoning or writing pointed to questionable quality. With respect to expressing oneself, I gave the pupils the benefit of doubt because they were not interviewed in their local language. That is well understood and accepted.

However, english remains Zambia’s official language and the most probable mode of delivering lessons or lectures if you visited educational institutions. Therefore, for pupils to struggle to express themselves must trigger concern. Is it that they just failed to articulate issues but knew what they were talking about? Or could it be that perhaps that was a symptom of a challenge that loudly showed that what they were taught was also not being relayed effectively because the language had become a barrier? Assuming they are taught in english which I have no doubt they are, then how effective is the learning if they cannot even be coherent enough?

This is an area worth exploring so we are sure the right environment and delivery is made available for education to be meaningful in the lives of the youth and society’s future.

Without doubt, it also becomes imperative to assess the quality of training teachers are receiving and how impactful their end product is as they teach in classes.

If this piece is weak, we are staring disaster in its ugly face.

Where is the hope?

Not all that appears bleak means hopelessness. We make notable strides with the realisation of the daunting challenge we need to confront. That is half the battle won.

However, to defeat this common enemy, the determinant will be and is what we do about it. Our youth need help, guidance and a support environment that will guarantee sustainable intervention.

The solution(s) is not singular in approach. Rather, it is abundantly clear that the solution must be comprehensive, intertwined and concretely coordinated to be meaningful with significant impact.

It must not be isolated and rest only with teachers and the education system. It must incorporate a new approach in our homes and how we raise our children. It must extend to our society, spiritual disposition and all elements of our interwoven lives to deliberately build a more positive future. It entails all who have achieved something to hold the hands of those left behind. Those who have survived the battering of life to sail on a less crooked path leading the pack of those lost on this journey.

Idealistic it may sound. But it remains the only hope we have for us to avert a catastrophe unfolding before our eyes if we do absolutely nothing about it.

If not you and I to play a part in this, then who?

 
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Posted by on June 28, 2012 in Opinion, Youth

 

Death in Chitokoloki: The challenge of selflessness and service

10 Jun

Sparkling water

Chitokoloki I have come to learn means “sparkling water”. The name is an appropriate choice given the location along the banks of the mighty Zambezi river.

The mission itself is about 43km from the district headquarters in Zambezi. I have never been to the mission but was in Zambezi for the first time in 2010 when I attended the traditional ceremony Likumbi Lya Mize. One fact that is unmissable is the distance to this part of North Western Zambia. It is a good 10hrs from the Copperbelt, which perhaps means 14hrs from the capital Lusaka. Coupled with the state of the road (at least on my last visit), it is quite an undertaking when one makes the trip.

An unexpected “noise” in the silence

The hitherto muteness that surrounded Chitokoloki was broken. Some have heard of the Mission, established in 1914, while it has taken an accident to bring it to others’ attention.

Noble works such as those that happen at the Mission and areas around it, will usually go unnoticed and unheralded. But still they continue as simple and ordinary folk dedicate their lives to serving others.

The month of June catapulted Chitokoloki into the news albeit steeped in sadness. A young couple Jay and Katrina Erickson met their end when their plane crashed into the Zambezi after hitting an electricity power line. The Ericksons were in their 20s, leaving behind two children aged 2 and 1.

They had come to Zambia to serve the Mission at Chitokoloki, which is under the umbrella of the Christian Mission in Many Lands (CMML). The death of these missionaries has evoked such sadness culminating in a day of national mourning declared in their honour.

One can only pray they rest well and the legacy they leave challenges all of us, known and unknown to them.

Missions, Missionaries and Moving on

The Erickson story and legacy has made me think about missions and missionaries. I am overwhelmed with respect and admiration for these people that leave their comfort zone, cultures and families to make their homes among a strange people. All in the name of service, faith and personal decisions bordering on responding to God’s call.

I have found it strongly intriguing that it seems our colleagues, mostly from the western countries embark on this missionary journey more than we Africans. I have seen more white missionaries than black. And this is not meant to be a discussion of race but rather the openness to missionary work.

My mind goes to a close friend of mine, Pastor Phil Hunt who over 20 years ago came to Africa as a missionary with his wife, Lori. So many years later, they are at home on our continent, serving to the best of their abilities.

This story is mirrored when we review the many missionaries we may have come to know such as the Hunts, Ericksons and even a number of Catholic priests that Africa has seen. There is a decision of sacrifice that they make as they embrace a different challenging life for the good of mankind.

Yes there are some black colleagues that in their own way have also taken to missionary or priestly roles. I know of Pastor Saidi Chishimba who opted for full time ministry instead of a secular career. Or Charles Chilufya, a colleague from Copperbelt University who was recently ordained and is a member of the Catholic Jesuits.

These are people that have taken the hard, oft unpopular route. I admire the zeal that they radiate as they discharge their responsibilities. I am certain they too have peculiar frustrations in their roles but still they pursue this noble aspiration.

I know too some people that have joined the priesthood over the years with the motivation of attaining an education or as an escape from poverty.

The motives may be varied but the choice I extol is obviously that of people that have an opportunity to follow a secular path yet they deem it necessary instead to trek to the mission field.

The black and white in missions

However, the Chitokoloki and Erickson story brings me to a point where I question why we see more white missionaries than black. Could it be an insight into selflessness, a willingness to detach from what we treasure or circumstances that make it paramount to chase a secular career than missionary work?

It is true that not all can be called to be missionaries. But the ratios seem to tell another story altogether. Are our brothers and sisters more open to this call than we are?

What holds us back from also taking to the mission field in humble service? Sometimes the best answers to such searching questions lie in assessing ourselves.

I for one know a decision such as this is not an easy one. Mainly fear sets in, of the unknown it may seem. Fear to step out of the comfort zone. Fear of challenging times as one thinks of what survival will be like. The burden of responsibility and how one may support not only their nuclear family but also those dependent on them, beyond the immediate home circle.

This is a truth I have seen before. Some time back I had lightly raised this issue with my wife as I pondered on the tough decisions people make as they venture into missionary work. It was evident the thought and idea was very testing for her. The reaction was the same once when I teased my mother about it. The immediate concern for both, including myself I guess, was how we would manage without a full time secular job (read: salary I suppose)!

Usually, this is where the battle starts and a decision to go into missions meets its death here. The trappings of our careers have us hooked. The thought of detaching to do something deemed less rewarding financially is a daunting one.

It cannot be disputed that finances, obligations and family responsibility have a telling influence on such a decision.

What would be of interest then is whether such influences are only unique to us and not our western peers. They too have families, careers and financial obligations but serve they do. Why does it seem the decision is easier with them than it is with us?

Missions in our daily lives

The mission field, it is argued too, transcends being a missionary as we have come to know it. It has been modified now to also mean one can be in their careers and secular jobs as missionaries. This has been a convenient justification or explanation for not taking the full time missionary path. I know because I have used it too.

The cardinal question then becomes whether we even do that missionary work in the secular roles we use as reasons not to pursue full time missionary work.

The decision to serve must have a firm foundation and be thoroughly thought out. That is why the best motivation inevitably is the response to God’s call and an urgent need to serve mankind through our time, talents and commitment. I believe perhaps that this lightens the demanding burden of deciding to trot onto the mission field.

Maturity in faith, selflessness and a willingness to sacrifice clearly have immeasurable influence on such a calling.

We know many among us of strong faith and selfless big hearts but still we do not see as many black missionaries. Or can it perhaps be a case of limited visibility?

Questioning ourselves

The death of this young couple in Chitokoloki ignites introspection. To establish how in our roles, we serve God and mankind. To also determine why we see less of us blacks dedicating ourselves to the missionary field.

The Erickson couple so young must challenge us to assess our lives, choices, priorities and motivation. What really matters to us? It shows in our interests, time and choices.

They settled where roads are poor, where there are no proper facilities and electricity challenges are a norm. This they did having sacrificed the rewards of life in their home country in order to pursue a different path, related to their training and career but with missionary work at the core.

As we celebrate their lives and the choices made, we must also push ourselves to reflect on what drives us in life and what we will be remembered for.

In the end, there must be a greater call on our lives that influences all we do and the choices we make.

Jay and Katrina are among the many that have opted for noble vocations. Lives dedicated to evangelism, service and selflessness. It remains for us alive to consider how we can also serve. Further it matters how many more black missionaries we can see taking to the field with our white brothers and sisters, all with the intent of serving a higher calling.

The question of missions needs to be answered by all of us where we are, in our roles, careers and for the called, even further leaving the comfort they know in order to pursue the mission field on a full time basis.

This will remain the enduring testimony and challenge that this young couple’s death lives with all of us. To emulate their courage, sacrifice, selflessness and dedication that saw them serve so many kilometres away from the home, life and comfort they knew.

Their lives were ended in that plunge into the Zambezi but what they achieved in simplicity and service will be told for a long time to come.

 
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Posted by on June 10, 2012 in Opinion, Reflections

 

Cleaning up Africa’s leadership mess

03 Jun

A continent awakes

Africa has seen a strong transformation taking root. In the early 90’s, we saw the winds of change usher in democracy on the continent. Most recently, we have witnessed the Arab spring and all that has ensued since it broke in North Africa.

The uprisings have left an indeligible mark with a myriad of lessons for political leaders. The lessons actually offer rich insights for anyone tasked with the responsibility of guiding people.

The continent has seen the downfall of prominent long serving Arab leaders most notably the indefatigable Muammar Gaddhafi and Hosni Mubarak.

What started as simple youthful protests mobilised the masses that had contained their frustration and fatigue with authoritarian rule. The people spoke and chased once unchallenged leaders out of office.

Gaddhafi fought to the end, losing a protracted battle against his own people who boasted the backing of Western powers. He died defiant and in battle.

Mubarak wheeled into jail

June 2012 however also took a remarkable twist as Egypt’s court handed down a jail sentence to Mubarak. A steel faced Mubarak was wheeled into court on a hospital bed to learn his fate. It was a life sentence and the nation exploded into street celebrations. The face of the long harsh and authoritarian rule was being punished finally.

There were whispers and eventually loud discontent however that some army personnel and Mubarak’s sons were acquitted. Perhaps a delicate balance the ruling army needed to manage their situation. Appearing to punish what the people had come to loath while sparing a few of their own. Allegiance to the old establishment perhaps.

Lessons for leaders

These recent developments are not to be read only as peculiar to North Africa. There is a lot to decipher for the good of governance and future leadership on the continent.

Let us look at some of these:

1. The people rule- leadership is about the people and service to them. This has been a fact but elusive aspect that has beleaguered us. Ideally, leaders must not lose sight of this reality in pursuit of their self enrichment, power and status. Once this truth is lost, one’s downfall is not far off. Even if it is decades later.

2. Strengthening governance structures- Africa needs to sort out her governance structures. We do not need the ICC to pursue African leaders that have committed crimes. Africa needs institutions such as the AU to step up and deal with leaders that lapse to the detriment of their own people. If this is not dealt with, we will continue having cases like Charles Taylor being sentenced in a European court or other leaders being pursued by bodies other than the AU.

The challenge is for Africans to govern themselves, highlight wrongs and strive to improve the quality of continental leadership. When this dynamic is set right, we will not associate African leadership with mediocrity, corruption, abuse of power and related ills.

3. Africa must unite- In every sense of the phrase, Africa must unite. As cited above, Africa must get to a position of collectively equipping itself in terms of capacity, calibre and capability. We must not have to depend on other powers or continental bodies to resolve our issues. A case in point is the US/NATO intervention in Libya. This is Africa and we must take the lead in our own matters.

This then calls for unity beyond political utterances at continental summits. It means Africa must move quickly on economic integration and stimulate intra-continental trade.

Africa needs to pursue an active agenda to produce and supply within the continent. She needs to foster the pursuit of infrastructure development to support this trade. She must educate her population and enhance her inhabitants’ skills.

This must be a collective agenda and it may seem a pipedream today but steps to make it a reality must be taken quick and now. This is the challenge that needs to be mounted against poverty, under-development and leadership failures that today and tomorrow’s leaders must have foremost on their minds.

4. You can fool some people sometimes- But you can’t fool all the people all the time. African leaders must learn this urgent and timeless principle.

Most of our leaders have succumbed to the temptation and trappings of power. In the end, they lose their humility, focus and reason. Even worse, they find themselves surrounded by people that tell them what pleases their ears. It has become apparent that they pay attention only to what ultimately destroys them and sobriety only returns with a smack of reality in their disgraced faces.

It must never be so. A true leader must never take for granted the very people that made him one. This is pertinent truth that everyone close to any leader must remind them of.

5. A vigilant people- In the past, all sorts of failures and excesses have been allowed somewhat. The hapless citizenry has absorbed all the unfortunate unfolding weaknesses of leadership. As a result, even the leaders responsible for these failures have survived without reprimand.

What the continent has seen in North Africa and earlier in the 90s has exposed the inherent power that lies with the people. When the people take an active interest in governance, it becomes easier to drive accountability and transparency at all levels. This ensures that leaders do not drive a selfish agenda but inevitably pursue service to the people as their core motivation.

It cannot be disputed therefore the power that people yield. This is what must be realised by each and every citizen. Leaders are in those important offices to serve and what they do in service must show or else they have failed.

That in itself demands vigilance, an alert people that take an interest in what is happening around them.

North Africa has shown how powerful a force this can be. The key is for active engagement between the people and their leaders. A healthy interface may then serve as a deterrent that averts the chaos, blood and destruction seen up north.

6. A cry for ethical leadership- The theme remains the same. Leaders must have a semblance of principles and ethics. They must stand for something that matters more than money, power or pride.

This has been the most notable missing link over the decades with our African leaders. The ethics take a back seat when it matters most and the consequences have been as crystal clear as an LED screen.

This crippling phenomenon characterises our leadership and we must all watch how we manage the responsibility on our shoulders to assess how we serve or can serve. What we do with less responsibility is usually a sure indication of what to expect when we have more.

7. Beyond statistics- Leadership is beyond economic statistics. Poverty remains the biggest foe Africa must fight. The continent has posted unprecedented growth over the last few years. The raging debate though has been whether the rate of growth can halt and reverse the poverty levels. Is this pace sufficient to turn the continent on its head, create employment for the largely youthful population?

The people express their frustration when access to basic services remains elusive. When malnutrition ravages the children, illiteracy haunts us as more people fail to get into school and households are led by the young ushered into the driving seat by suffocating diseases like AIDS.

Leaders must know and realise that with each passing day these are the only issues that matter. There is no patience or time for rhetoric anymore.

The writing on the wall

The Arab Spring, arrest of Charles Taylor and Hosni Mubarak all point to the need for a fresh start in Africa.

The continent is ripe for progress, for a departure from a pattern of governance that has left us stuck in perpetual misery and perceived failure.

However, we are not failures as a people and must therefore not accept any hint of it.

What these developments must convey is the need for leaders to take their roles much more seriously. And the led, we the people, must pay attention to what they do and demand more.

In the absence of this twin interplay, we will wallow in the mess Africa has become painfully accustomed to.

 
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Posted by on June 3, 2012 in Politics

 
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