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Reflections on President Obama's Vist to Ghana
By Kwaku Boafo and Danny Silva
Last time we gave President Obama and the first family the inside scoop on the hippest places to go and coolest things for their trip to Ghana. Apparently they didn’t get to everything in the 21 hours they spent in the country, perhaps saving some activities for their next visit. As the aftermath dies down, we boil down his speech and reactions from around the world, and take a look at the street scenes and festivities from the historic occasion.
Obama was officially greeted at the airport by an ensemble of drummers, and quickly familiarized himself with the musical culture of Ghana. Not only did the sound of drums follow him all the way to Cape Coast, but also, a trumpet decided to calm his nerves before his speech given at the Ghanaian parliament. Whether it was coincidental or not, Obama’s reference to Louis Armstrong after enjoying the sounds of horn might reflect his knowledge of Louis Armstrong’s visit to Ghana in the late 50’s.
Today, Ghanaians all around the world beam with a renewed confidence, not in only in their nation, but also in the future of their continent. Obama’s choice to use Ghana as a platform to speak to a larger Africa is symbolic for a nation that had just began taking baby steps to independence a little over a half century ago. Though Ghana’s official endorsement by President Obama is a compliment to the nation’s progress, the endorsement extends beyond Ghana’s border and applauds other African countries that have also placed similar emphasis on peaceful democratic transitions, anti-corruption and increasing health awareness.
Just as a coin has two sides, praise also comes with rebuke. Obama addressed issues that are known too well by Africans; the mismanagement of wealth and resources by African leaders. Obama firmly stated: “no person wants to live in a society where the rule of law gives way to the rule of brutality and bribery. That is not democracy, that is tyranny, and now is the time for it to end” - the applause was magnificent. As we enter the 21st century, Africans know very well that handclaps do not change policies. The U.S president was quick to remind Africans that “Africa's future is up to Africans”.
President Obama addressed Ghana’s recent discovery of oil, an issue that is mildly??? sensitive to the Ghanaian population. Though a very promising discovery, if Ghana does not learn from the past mistakes of other oil producing countries, a potentially shadowy future may ensue. Obama did not tackle that issue explicitly, but reminded Ghanaians that investing in the people, creating new infrastructure, and specializing in the appropriate skills will create a workforce ready to expand the country’s development.
Before the President’s final remarks, a powerful message was given to all of Africa’s youth to take the continent’s future into their hands by holding leaders accountable, furthering their education, and serving in their respective communities. Change never comes easy, but Obama confirmed that America will be there both as a “partner [and] a friend”.
What took place in Accra, Saturday July 11th 2009, will serve as a monument to the country’s rich history. In the words of Obama, “We will look back years from now to places like Accra and say that this was the time when the promise was realized”- not just for Ghana or Africa, but for the whole world. As Africa readies herself to be a global leader in the 21st century, we must remember that Obama’s message is not a revolutionary message, but simply a spoon stirring up Africa’s spirit to continue on with the good fight.
Look below for pictures and reactions to Obama’s visit to Ghana
A Theme Song for Obama’s Ghana Visit
News Articles
Obama in Africa: Welcome Back, Son. Now Don’t Forget Us
Obama: Ghana’s Gain, Nigeria’s loss
Obama w/ Blakk Rasta: Moment of Glory
Obama and Fela “The Original Black President”
Should you go to Ghana?
Videos
Watch Obama’s Speech addressed to Ghana’s Parliament
Africa Responds to Obama's Tough Love Message
Welcome song for Obama to Ghana
CAPE COAST REMARKS
Obama and Blakk Rasta
   
First published: Afropop.org
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