The president of Senegal, Abdoulaye Wade, has taken a step to assist those affected by the earthquake.
"The president is offering voluntary repatriation to any Haitian that wants to return to their origin ... Senegal is ready to offer them parcels of land - even an entire region. It all depends on how many Haitians come," said Wade's spokesman, Mr Bemba Ndiaye, to BBC News."If it's just a few individuals, then we will likely offer them housing or small pieces of land. If they come en masse we are ready to give them a region."
This offer is great – in theory. In reality – not so much. Senegal is a developing nation that struggles to provide for its population of nearly 14 million. That along with the general public's distaste for Wade has caused quite the stir here. Many believe that Wade cannot follow through on his promise while others fear that he will do so but at the expense of Senegal. The general consensus that I've received is that people here are willing to aid, willing to sacrifice even but bringing evacuees to Senegal will result in a lose-lose situation for all parties.
It's my belief that this was simply a political gesture. This was his way to play the role of a caring humanitarian on the world's stage while neglecting that same role domestically.
Perhaps other nations (nations with more land, resources, and finances) will take this as a charge and offer similar aid to the people of Haiti. The simple fact that he made this declaration before others could do so should be seen as an embarrassment to the conscience of the developed world.
What do you think? What's the best way to help Haiti?
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Hey Josh! It's Malena.
ReplyDeleteI think tragedies bring out the most courageous behavior in people. And one like Haiti is sure to be a turning point in the way leaders think of human rights intervention. Haiti shows prevention is much more worth the fight. Wade is saying something African officials should have at the strike of independence. His act is both courageous and necessary.
Blacks diasporans are making a return to Africa, and the good thing about Wade's stance is that he's writing attitudinal policy--preparing Africans for the real and urgent idea that it has to make room for its diaspora. There's so much tension between Africans and diaspora Africans, which only prevents cross-investment.
Wade's call is as much for refugees as it is black diaspora investors in africa..
Some would argue that a lot of what Senegal suffers from is weak energies of will. I met so many talented young people who can complain about a president yet are not mentoring anybody or launching a start-up. Africa must stop looking to elected power alone for change. That power is just as great among everyday people, if they are so determined...
thanks for this!
u da man
and, you look soo Senegalese in that header picture. beautiful!
Great post. Good information. Is Senegal an origin in Africa for Haitians? I do hope that the offer is assistance is real - the Haitian people have had enough of broken promises.
ReplyDeleteKeep us posted on how it turns out.