Asserts the libertarian head of the Inter-Region Economic Network (Kenya): "The continent must put to an end the culture of exporting factories abroad through over reliance on raw material trade exchanges. It is possible; the continent simply needs to refocus the enthusiasm that is usually generated during political campaigns to enthusiasm to invest in production lines. The continent must seal leakages that shrink government revenues and redirect finances to investing in productivity. Increased wealth in emerging economies offers Africa a great opportunity to capture factories that targeted low income populations in those countries. Interest from developed countries’ investors seeking growth opportunities in Africa provide an excellent platform to negotiate for value addition production locally."
Mr. Shikwati continues his commentary: "To drive up intra-Africa resource mobilization, the continent can as well take heed of a famous Chinese saying: 'Resources is the mother of wealth; hard work is the father of wealth – only the two combined can produce wealth.' It is time African country governments and leaders strategize beyond their own borders to tap into the vast natural resources that go unexploited in the continent in order to release their citizenry from the indignity of poverty, economic deprivation and underdevelopment."
James Shikwati Commentary: Growth Calls For Intra-Africa Resource Mobilization
