Up Station Mountain Club

The African Union and the United States of Africa Project. A Dream or Reality.

Mbuli Rene

There has been increased talks in recent years about the need to create a united states of Africa; reinvigorating the dreams of the forefathers of the OAU (Organisation for African Unity) such as Nkrumah, Nyerere and Kenyatta. While controversies persist, leading to divisions amongst African leaders on the form which a united Africa will take, many have simply thrown the idea to the bank of illusions. Such opinions and stand points about the union government as an illusion could stem from ignorance of the origin and relevance of the project as well as the egocentric desire to protect personal ambitions.  It is therefore worthy to set the records straight here while pin- pointing some challenges and making proposals that can be relevant as policy options for the success of this continental initiative.

The PRESBY Saga: When Youths Give in to Greed

 By Mbuli Rene

Over the week-end, on Saturday 19 July, some “youths” of the so-called PRESBY, acronym for President Biya’s Youths, held a press conference in Yaounde, where they manifested their total and unconditional support to President Biya, requesting that he stands for president in 2011. They notified and assured the president of their desire and capacity to pay the caution of one million CFA francs that each presidential candidate is required to deposit; while at the same time galvanising the youths to join in the move.

Omar Bongo’s Death: End of Leadership Tussle, New Leadership Stakes in the ECCAS / CEMAC Region or Regional Eclipse?

By Mbuli Rene (University of Yaounde I)

The news fell on Sunday 07 June 2009 announcing the death of   the Dean of African Heads of State at the age of 73. The death of Omar Bongo Ondimba of Gabon in Barcelone comes at a time when the Continent is in the process to build a strong and effective African Union.

Way back in 1961-62, inspired by the  movements of avant-guards of Pan-Africanism such as WEB Dubois , William Blyden and Marcus Garvey, heated debates between the Casablanca and the Monrovia Groups over the unity of the continent , led to the  resolution that the unity of the continent shall be better achieved  by a gradual process and through regional economic groups.