Wow i am youth living in Kenya and trust me this guy has a point. South Africa, Rwanda even my country Kenya is booming. corruption is one of the biggest problems in our economy.
Your ignorance regarding Islam is apparent; you obviously have not read the Koran which insists all infidels must be converted regardless of method; pacifist or forceable. Just because Islam was a historical spin off from Christianity does not make it similar to Christianity; rather this indicates a fundamental difference...otherwise they would just be another Christian sect. The huge foundational differences between and the emphasis Islam puts on conquest and subjugation says it all.
"Textile factories in Africa will lure people from the rural areas, as they achieve industrialization and wealth"? Are you kidding me? That is the most asinine statement I have heard. Where have 'textile factories' EVER led ANY group of rural people in so called 'third-world; countries to "industrialization and wealth". Mexico? Pakistan? India? China? Thailand? Please. The only way these countries will rise is if they are allowed to get fair market value for their natural and human resources, stable leaders and governments, and strong manufacturing bases. Take Nigeria for example. They import EVERYTHING they consume. With that kind of trade imbalance, "industrialization and wealth" will NEVER be achieved, regardless of how many foreign 'textile factories' are established there. 'Textile factories' sounds like a synonym for inhumane 'sweat shops'.
MrHonesttruth7 Nigeria imports everything...? Quit lying and enough with the exaggerations, it is so immature and stupid. I'm quite certain you've never been to Nigeria.
You my asinine friend are the one that is immature and stupid. I was born in Lagos, Nigeria in 1962 and grew up with the cream of elite society. I attended the best schools in Nigeria, before moving to the US IN 1980. Name ONE simple consumer product apart from what Dangote Group Of Companies manufactures that is considered WORLD CLASS? You are the idiot and liar defending Nigeria and her dysfunction. Beast Of No Nation! Have you been to Abuja lately? Have you seen how the masses are SUFFERING all over Nigeria? The Naira is 460 to the US Dollar. When I came to the US IN 1980, the US Dollar was 1.65 to the Naira. As they say in Nigeria you are a goat!
I agree a healthy economy is essential for all. My point is much of the Western system is NOT healthy and is about to crash spectacularly. Based on scarcity and debt it is corrupt to the core and backed by those we blindly accept as "authorities." The people of the world are farmed and perception managed to believe they are free. Nothing is further from the truth. We live in a world gifted with abundance and it's the system that makes it impractical or "not economically feasible"
Who said the African countries were "stupid" - besides you? But speaking of Indian companies, it took what - at least 100 years for them to develop their own internal industrial complex free of British influence? It takes some time to shake off the effects of imperialism - I'm concerned that imperialistic corporations will continue to make it difficult for African countries to become truly independent & reap the profits from their own raw materials & resources.
Charles, I hope the education that you speak about, it won't be the same for Africa. Education in the Northern Hemisphere is pushing the planet to the limit. I don't wish that type of growing for Africa, every system of constant growth is doomed to failure. The culture in Africa is more intelligent, it is based on the balance with the planet and its species, including the human. I don't share the idea that the next century will be for Africa, current century is yet of Africa, in Africa we live in balance thinking about sustainability, when the rest of humans leave us. The Northern Hemisphere only thinking in the short term, an economic system for the less intelligent. Please, just look at you in the mirror, do you really think your world-view makes sense? You must be more humble, your economy and technology are not sustainable for the planet, it doesn't work, you must go back to Africa to learn, actually you do not have much to teach Africa. You only see Africa as labor and new customers.
Your attempt at sarcasm is cute :). I was talking about the African governments, which are being propped up and kept in power, precisely because of that aid you hold so dear. And yes, I know better than to confuse governments and actual people, because I'm not a collectivist that thinks a tyranny of the majority equals all individuals. Foreign aid (just like all forms of government welfare) does nothing else but make people dependant. If there is one thing economists agree on, it's free trade.
Historically it's been First World countries - Britain, Nederlands, Germany, etc - who profited from African development. It would be good to see the African people finally gain control over their natural resources & profits resulting therefrom, but centuries of exploitation hinder such advances. Have all the first-world countries & corporations who've invested in diamond mines, other forms of mineral wealth, etc, signed over their share of financial profits to the Africans yet? No?
Textile industries will put these countries onto the road of industrialization and wealth? Possibly monetary wealth...but health is wealth, health of the land is wealth and has much more value than the production of textiles for countries looking to drain resources from Africa. Thumbs down for inciting investment and globalization in a continent were its residents will suffer for it.
Nigerian, ex-Muslim Atheist. You're wrong bro. All it took for me to discard Islam was youtube, a la. Ayaan Hirsi Ali, Richard Dawkins, and Sam Harris. Now I live in the U.S., where there's 24hr electricity and I can afford to spend hrs on youtube. The minute the Average African has the same opportunity, what do you think will happen? Islam thrives on ignorance. Remove ignorance, and you solve the problem.
Economists never talk about the reality behind economic growth, the fact that it is built on millions of people being treated as little more than slaves. Cogs in an economic machine.
Mr. Who ever you are you term the Hindu rate of growth as if its India's fault. In the 2000 years of economic history of the world India has dominated the course of the world economics for nearly 1500 years followed by China for the most part, only in 1600 did china take over India but India regained the No:1 position again in 1700, and once British "colonized" India it was all down hill from there.
Though not fully convincing, because your past performance will not guarantee the future, still we can understand Africa is rising and leading to a right path of peace and prosperity. Certainly the 21st century will not be entirely African one, because two of the Asian giants--China and India--are growing rapidly. However, the long neglected dark continent should grow. It is the right time and they should cease that opportunity to achieve prosperity.
If you haven't noticed its not me who is trying to pin the blame on someone or something but its the person in the video who while trying to seem like making an implicit suggestion ended up accusing developing nations for being what they are - Developing nations. As an economist one should base ones understanding of things on fact's and not on subjectivities which is what you yourself have concurred to by trying too hard to be indifferent.
Then why would you respond? The quality of leadership across the continent has improved, which is why they've grown by 5% instead of the bleak forecast of 2% a decade ago. He admitted that corruption is still a major issue (as with in my other developed or underdeveloped democracies), but the quality of leadership in regards to social mobility has changed.
I'm not saying that I don't care about global issues. All I'm saying is, the world isn't meant to be treated like a Victorian-era photograph. I don't apologize for using playful language- I hope it's obvious that I'm a sincere person despite my quirks. I am genuinely interested in what your opinions are in regards to where Africa's future should be headed. I vaguely see where you're coming from, but I'm unclear as to what alternative you see to full-fledged participation in the global economy.
At what point does he mention investing in AFRICAN business? All he suggests is the potential for greater commercial involvement by multinationals. Those will be same corporations that have gained their success by conforming to a system that is unsustainable and corrupt in the first place. I regret I am unable to think of suitably inept reciprocal analogy as a reply but unless you have any ideas on how to avert the coming world financial crisis I think it is YOU that has missed the point.
When does global economic growth end? when all resources end? Now obviously Africa is a continent that certainly can benefit from economic growth, no doubt, but the promotion of endless consumerism for the sake of economic growth in the west is perverse. I feel this man is viewing the world through this type of lense.If the whole world consumed as much as USA, we would probably need three more globes.
I get you about the longevity and standard of living etc. but the current commercial system is failing worldwide. So why wish more problems for Africa by inducing them into a faulty system.
$2,800 is 17,844.48 Swedish Crowns, that's quite livable - it is 2,505.92 Swiss Francs, that is low but one can survive modestly but adequately with that amount.
He says he is an economist. Well, The Economist (magazine) keeps running dire reports about the state of China's heavily polluted environment. THIS presenter promises us the same "industrial revolution" that China has seen in Africa. Wow, I'm really looking forward to having yet another global environmental catastrophe. Guys like this "economist" will make sure that the only way out of poverty is trough stone age capitalism and environmental destruction.
"Among the reasons I think it is happening right now is the quality of the leadership across Africa." Say what? I'll admit I'm not the most informed person on politics in general and especially on African politics, but somehow I find this hard to believe, especially since he doesn't back up his claim with anything other than his personal experience, i.e. anecdotal evidence.
So why no road and rail link/ bridge across the Strait of Gibralter. This would be the marvel of the century and would change the continent for the better. This is feasible because greater sea crossings have been bridged recently. The distance is not great....google map it.... The gate to a super large continent...imagine the benefits.... The positive aspects of Europe would spread rapidly...
Peace and tolerance are admirable and a great aspiration but religious doctrine is what it is and religions seeking to convert others by force or through terrorist acts will always stand as an impediment to true peace and tolerance. The cultural, including religious, problems which continue to plague African economic stability will continue to hamper economic growth and make investment in SSA less desirable. The resources and manpower exist but the continental stability remains in question.
You keep your rose colored glasses on and tell yourself that they all support the same values and beliefs (they don't); and they will continue to commit atrocities on the general public. I wish the world were as peaceful as you've convinced yourself and I would like nothing more than to actually have religious freedom and tolerance but it needs to go both ways. Recent incidents in Texas, Ben Ghazi and other locations around the world don't comport with your idea of "peaceful"...open your eyes.
Here, here. However, your second assertion is not correct given the complexities and number of cultural things affecting economic growth. I.e. radical Islamic terrorists have obviously impacted the economic situation in most Mid Eastern and South Sahara African countries. They have great resources that everyone wants but most are not willing to deal with the political instability and lack of security.
OK...read more than one cherry picked book to attempt to support your point...and he only tries...his book is just his opinion and has very little concrete evidence to support any aspiration. I would challenge you to tell me where in the Bible it tells current day Christians to commit acts of violence to win followers or eliminate advocates...the Qur'an is loaded with direction to Islamic followers to now convert infidels (anyone not Islamic) either passively or actively through violence.
I think 50 years is a small amount of time for a country to properly form. Especially from where they started. Things have progressed alot these days, but their is still alot of instability resulting from the repercussions. Yes i believe we were 'a' root cause, and it is likely their are other smaller factors too.. but i can't think of any, can you? My point is.. if a country starts out with no money, no education, little public services and corruption... they've got a long way to go..
Men take authority over women... As for those who are disobedient, admonish them and send them to beds apart and beat them. (Surah 4:34) Believers, take neither Jews nor Christians for your friends. (Surah 5:51) Fight against such as those to whom the Scriptures were given until they pay tribute out of hand and are utterly subdued." (Surah 9:29) Shall I go on? There's plenty more of that stuff, if you want.
I think these comments show some misguided derisiveness towards Islam. Of all possible things, the Islamic religion is not going to be the reason why Africa has "no positive future," should that become the case. Dependence on foreign countries, corrupt dictatorial regimes, and quickly depleting natural resources are much more relevant challenges for Africa's future. Additionally, don't mistake Islam with the radical minorities who use it as an excuse for oppression and violence.
Wow, how many views and comments in such a short period of time. It still surprises me that people are interested in my continent ( yes a continent)! And what exactly is Africa's next boom , can we for once be more specific? What countries are we talking about? I understand the need to simplify everything but when you trying to talk growth, GDP and population, isn't it more efficient to narrow the info? It's quite frustrating to see that my continent is treated as a country! Well, it is not!
He didn't say anything about an impossible debt. He only mention a moral obligation. you know, when when your parents "borrow" a large sum of money from the neighbor and didn't pay back. Then they died and you inherited the fortune. You may not have a legal obligation to pay back the neighbor son, but it is quite cold to close your eyes when you see the homeless neighbor's son walking by.
This excites me. The developed Western countries (basically Europe, USA, and Canada) are all in decline, but these Eastern countries in Africa and Asia are on the rise. Once I'm old enough (as I'm only 17 now), I hope to move out of the US and into one of these developing countries, probably not one in Africa but one in Asia. I find it funny our Europeans and Americans are so certain for a come back in their lands but that's ridiculous. Our countries' contribution to history is over folks.
Wittiness and sarcasm aside, I was trying to counter your position that the West should 'fix' its past mistakes through aid. I'd even say it's counterproductive. Even Bono now agrees that aid, even when directly to the people, doesn't help, but what does help is free market reforms and an ethos of respect for property rights, just like the West had learned during Renaissance and Enlightenment. If you want to help Africa, support African free market think thanks to spread these ideas.
I do know that, and it drives me nuts. Unfortunately we have a shit system in place.. but it is a system which is still providing healthcare, education and clean water. But yes, most companies that have something to gain financially are generally not worth trusting. Bare in mind, i can't stick my whole point of view in a 240 character comment.. i've already answered a couple of your queries further down the page. have a good day
Hey no worries. You are right, in theory a person shouldn't be judged on the actions of another. But in reality, everyone do.. their are few examples against me down the comments, yet i'd regard myself as one of the more passive/empathetic types. But then there are those with louder voices, that paint an entirely different picture of i and our society.. None the less, although we didn't commit the atrocities.. alot of wealth was pillaged that we owe back, along with some apologies. :)
I've seen the point made a couple of times, and its certainly not one to dispute. Government funding *atleast*, generally follows a procedure which looks good on paper but is shocking in reality.. (In my opinion) the money is much better sent to local charities who understand the local system. Obviously the whole picture is much bigger covering other areas like education and health.. but the debate would never stop then =P
the last time africa produced something world beating was 250,000 years ago. and africa produced homo sapiens. since then there hasnt been any great idea. the speaker points to india. india had built buildings, universities etc. even before the industrial revolution in europe. the same is true of even poor poor cambodia. not since the invention of homosapiens in africa. this speaker is just a marketing specialist ... for africa.
There are different nations and different strcutures, SA have the same structure of USA (companies have huge influences), Nigeria is a corruptocracy (wins the more corrupt), Ghana and Kenya are democracies while Rwanda a "good dictatorship" Singapore-style, Zambia/Namibia and Botswana are democracies etc etc Africa is not like EU (the same structure and almost the same people througout the continent), Africa is like Asia, every nation is completely different and the same is for the people.
Unfortunately your views are ignorant. Generalizing a major Abrahamic religion based on entirely your own experiences is plain stupid. If you were easily persuaded by watching a few videos you weren't really a 'Muslim' before. I always found that the problem lies with the followers and not the religion itself.
(i didn't watch the video i just came to see the comments because of the like bar, so I wish you to keep that in mind). i don't think consequences can just be placed on long-term, multiple-generation objects like race or nationality. People with rightfully clear consciences shouldn't pay for others' ignorance or wrong-doing, surely?
The only problem with you statement is that many African "thought leaders" say that the Western "aid" has been a major part of the problem. It helped cement structures that are the exact opposite of what is needed for progress in Africa. Plenty of lectures, presentations, texts on this phenomenon are available, just ask Google.
Well OP's statement was very broad. If he was referring to just the militant side of Islam I would agree with you but just dismissing a whole religion as just inherently bad is edging towards racism. In Islam for example, people of a certain means have to give 2.5% of their income to charity, meaning that Muslims give more to Charity when compared to Jews or Christians. You can see how this would help in such a poverty riven continent.
"india had built buildings, universities etc. even before the industrial revolution in europe." Ever heard of Timbuktu. Before commenting on something, ask your self if you know the slightest about what your talking about.
Slow down there buddy, the West is not responsible for most of Africa's problems. By all means do not underestimate the capacity of the African to royally fuck up their own continent. I say that as an African. Things are getting better, so let's look on the bright side and let go of the past.
[face palm] Yes, and who would obviously have the capital to invest? First-world corporations. Who would reap the profits? First-world corporations. The poor African people will be "corporate-raided" again - just as they have been for at least several hundred years.
This was a good talk.. To those crying in the comments.. No one has a right to winge about the aid that is being given to Africa.. We, the west fucked it up.. We, the west inherited a moral obligation to fix the problems our ancestors caused.. Face the facts and shut up.
The way investments work is that investors get a return and the company they invested in can provide that return because they are successful. You usually don't have one without the other (Bain Capital style raiders notwithstanding).
yes but a growing economy will pull them out of poverty. sure having large corporations there, are going to come with the same problems we have in the US, but at least the average citizens overall quality of life will be better.
Debt forgiveness, overseas factories, child labor, etc. What kind of TED talk is this? We do not want to move factories to Africa! This is what we are trying to stop!
I can't say I agree with you. The idea that that there is a scarceness of resources on this planet is one of the biggest lies that has ever been told and unfortunately most people (mainly from rich western countries) seem to have bought into it. Overpopulation is a myth. The distribution of resources across the globe needs to be addressed not the availability. We really COULD all be rich, this assumption that we can't is the reason for this state of economic disparity.
Bla bla bla. Yet another economist. These days they get famous by making bold predictions and whether they get it right or not, they are slowly forgotten.
If you know what real Islam is, you will not say that. However, I kind of agree with this understanding of Islam Africa may not have a positive future.
Interesting, you focus on the very distant past. The Russians are similar, just that they only look back to good old Stalin and the Tsars, when the (Russian) world was still great. This orientation towards the past, and blaming everyone else instead of getting a large mirror, is a sure sign for a people who don't have a future.
No,that's not what he meant. He meant young men in general; as in, the maturity level of young men throughout any country is based on their education levels and whether they'll be able to be trainable and sustain growth.
"We, the west inherited a moral obligation to fix the problems our ancestors caused.." Hah, no. The obligation ended with those individuals who caused those problems.
"they can start pulling their own weight" you have no right to say that, you evidently haven't even read a history text book. I grew up there and I honestly wish I could show you how hard it is. It's not the people's fault, it's the governments and yours too for being so ignorant. Ugh people.
What I heard was a call to invest in Africa's success. Injecting more money into the African economy by way of commercial investment in the actual African people (not just "involvement," which is sad and exploitative) would almost certainly make Africa a much better place to live as a whole in terms of overall wealth, life expectancy, etc. Success in today's global economy is built on trust that your country is capable of contributing to the economic landscape- investment builds that trust.
I think that there's a crucial difference between commercial exploitation of African resources and markets by setting up shop there and the investment in African businesses. I'm pretty sure the key points of the talk (as opposed to the instant poster-message) zoomed right over your head like a slug out of a slingshot.
Africa needs a bridge that links to with China and to Brasil, an highway for camions. Crazy infrastructure but it has possibilities to be funded.ì (more than Gib bridge) A bridge to Europe is dangerous, or we'll be flooded in about 5 or 10 years. Look at what Spain/Portugal/Italy/Greece became in only 5 years.
Ghana: democracy Nigeria: democracy (Goodluck will be kicked of the next elections) Kenya: the same Botswana: the same what's the problem? The problem is you are not informed and "you don't back up your claim with anything other than your TV experience"
After everyone ran off from Africa, we can now say Come Back to Africa...
South Africa is still telling to us that we must run from Africa
I'm coming home, someday.
@@cannonfodder1984 Because the colonizers still occupy their economy, they're 30 years behind.
Nigeria gdp rebased is now the 24th largest economy. future super power.
Problem though, their fertility rate is 6!
Voice of Reason sounds like your problem. evidently they love children whats wrong with that? butthurt
not a good reasonable voice 😂
Excuse me ,a fake superpower that can't keep lights on ,can't provide enough clean water to its citizens and its slums are giant floating villages?
Pietro Jenkins boi india and china have those still
oh gosh. did he really just say that richer countries are not corrupted...they are just as corrupted in much discrete ways.
I agree. That was one thing I seriously didn't take to heart. Europe countries, the USA, etc are very corrupt.
Europe and America is the master of corruption
Wow i am youth living in Kenya and trust me this guy has a point. South Africa, Rwanda even my country Kenya is booming. corruption is one of the biggest problems in our economy.
Your ignorance regarding Islam is apparent; you obviously have not read the Koran which insists all infidels must be converted regardless of method; pacifist or forceable. Just because Islam was a historical spin off from Christianity does not make it similar to Christianity; rather this indicates a fundamental difference...otherwise they would just be another Christian sect. The huge foundational differences between and the emphasis Islam puts on conquest and subjugation says it all.
"Textile factories in Africa will lure people from the rural areas, as they achieve industrialization and wealth"? Are you kidding me? That is the most asinine statement I have heard. Where have 'textile factories' EVER led ANY group of rural people in so called 'third-world; countries to "industrialization and wealth". Mexico? Pakistan? India? China? Thailand? Please. The only way these countries will rise is if they are allowed to get fair market value for their natural and human resources, stable leaders and governments, and strong manufacturing bases. Take Nigeria for example. They import EVERYTHING they consume. With that kind of trade imbalance, "industrialization and wealth" will NEVER be achieved, regardless of how many foreign 'textile factories' are established there. 'Textile factories' sounds like a synonym for inhumane 'sweat shops'.
MrHonesttruth7 Nigeria imports everything...? Quit lying and enough with the exaggerations, it is so immature and stupid. I'm quite certain you've never been to Nigeria.
You my asinine friend are the one that is immature and stupid. I was born in Lagos, Nigeria in 1962 and grew up with the cream of elite society. I attended the best schools in Nigeria, before moving to the US IN 1980. Name ONE simple consumer product apart from what Dangote Group Of Companies manufactures that is considered WORLD CLASS? You are the idiot and liar defending Nigeria and her dysfunction. Beast Of No Nation! Have you been to Abuja lately? Have you seen how the masses are SUFFERING all over Nigeria? The Naira is 460 to the US Dollar. When I came to the US IN 1980, the US Dollar was 1.65 to the Naira. As they say in Nigeria you are a goat!
MrHonesttruth7 And you just confirmed your stupidity to the rest of the world. Keep it up. Village idiot!
I agree a healthy economy is essential for all.
My point is much of the Western system is NOT healthy and is about to crash spectacularly.
Based on scarcity and debt it is corrupt to the core and backed by those we blindly accept as "authorities."
The people of the world are farmed and perception managed to believe they are free.
Nothing is further from the truth.
We live in a world gifted with abundance and it's the system that makes it impractical or "not economically feasible"
western civilization has yet to "crash spectacularly".
Is it "Africa" which is going to boom, or is it First World countries' investments in Africa that are actually what will "boom"??
Who is going to cancel Europe's and North America's debt? Too bad...
missdonde nobody. they got beat😂😂
Who said the African countries were "stupid" - besides you? But speaking of Indian companies, it took what - at least 100 years for them to develop their own internal industrial complex free of British influence? It takes some time to shake off the effects of imperialism - I'm concerned that imperialistic corporations will continue to make it difficult for African countries to become truly independent & reap the profits from their own raw materials & resources.
Charles, I hope the education that you speak about, it won't be the same for Africa. Education in the Northern Hemisphere is pushing the planet to the limit. I don't wish that type of growing for Africa, every system of constant growth is doomed to failure.
The culture in Africa is more intelligent, it is based on the balance with the planet and its species, including the human.
I don't share the idea that the next century will be for Africa, current century is yet of Africa, in Africa we live in balance thinking about sustainability, when the rest of humans leave us.
The Northern Hemisphere only thinking in the short term, an economic system for the less intelligent. Please, just look at you in the mirror, do you really think your world-view makes sense?
You must be more humble, your economy and technology are not sustainable for the planet, it doesn't work, you must go back to Africa to learn, actually you do not have much to teach Africa. You only see Africa as labor and new customers.
Your attempt at sarcasm is cute :). I was talking about the African governments, which are being propped up and kept in power, precisely because of that aid you hold so dear. And yes, I know better than to confuse governments and actual people, because I'm not a collectivist that thinks a tyranny of the majority equals all individuals.
Foreign aid (just like all forms of government welfare) does nothing else but make people dependant. If there is one thing economists agree on, it's free trade.
Historically it's been First World countries - Britain, Nederlands, Germany, etc - who profited from African development. It would be good to see the African people finally gain control over their natural resources & profits resulting therefrom, but centuries of exploitation hinder such advances. Have all the first-world countries & corporations who've invested in diamond mines, other forms of mineral wealth, etc, signed over their share of financial profits to the Africans yet? No?
Textile industries will put these countries onto the road of industrialization and wealth?
Possibly monetary wealth...but health is wealth, health of the land is wealth and has much more value than the production of textiles for countries looking to drain resources from Africa.
Thumbs down for inciting investment and globalization in a continent were its residents will suffer for it.
Africa is the land of future. And will ever be.
"Every rich country is relatively uncorrupt". Not The United States.
Nigerian, ex-Muslim Atheist.
You're wrong bro. All it took for me to discard Islam was youtube, a la. Ayaan Hirsi Ali, Richard Dawkins, and Sam Harris. Now I live in the U.S., where there's 24hr electricity and I can afford to spend hrs on youtube. The minute the Average African has the same opportunity, what do you think will happen? Islam thrives on ignorance. Remove ignorance, and you solve the problem.
Economists never talk about the reality behind economic growth, the fact that it is built on millions of people being treated as little more than slaves. Cogs in an economic machine.
This talk largly ignores the consequence of the fourth industrial revolution on the labor market
Mr. Who ever you are you term the Hindu rate of growth as if its India's fault. In the 2000 years of economic history of the world India has dominated the course of the world economics for nearly 1500 years followed by China for the most part, only in 1600 did china take over India but India regained the No:1 position again in 1700, and once British "colonized" India it was all down hill from there.
Inspiring! A rising, growing Africa is a great thing for the world.
Though not fully convincing, because your past performance will not guarantee the future, still we can understand Africa is rising and leading to a right path of peace and prosperity. Certainly the 21st century will not be entirely African one, because two of the Asian giants--China and India--are growing rapidly. However, the long neglected dark continent should grow. It is the right time and they should cease that opportunity to achieve prosperity.
If you haven't noticed its not me who is trying to pin the blame on someone or something but its the person in the video who while trying to seem like making an implicit suggestion ended up accusing developing nations for being what they are - Developing nations. As an economist one should base ones understanding of things on fact's and not on subjectivities which is what you yourself have concurred to by trying too hard to be indifferent.
Then why would you respond? The quality of leadership across the continent has improved, which is why they've grown by 5% instead of the bleak forecast of 2% a decade ago. He admitted that corruption is still a major issue (as with in my other developed or underdeveloped democracies), but the quality of leadership in regards to social mobility has changed.
I'm not saying that I don't care about global issues. All I'm saying is, the world isn't meant to be treated like a Victorian-era photograph. I don't apologize for using playful language- I hope it's obvious that I'm a sincere person despite my quirks.
I am genuinely interested in what your opinions are in regards to where Africa's future should be headed. I vaguely see where you're coming from, but I'm unclear as to what alternative you see to full-fledged participation in the global economy.
At what point does he mention investing in AFRICAN business? All he suggests is the potential for greater commercial involvement by multinationals.
Those will be same corporations that have gained their success by conforming to a system that is unsustainable and corrupt in the first place.
I regret I am unable to think of suitably inept reciprocal analogy as a reply but unless you have any ideas on how to avert the coming world financial crisis I think it is YOU that has missed the point.
When does global economic growth end? when all resources end? Now obviously Africa is a continent that certainly can benefit from economic growth, no doubt, but the promotion of endless consumerism for the sake of economic growth in the west is perverse. I feel this man is viewing the world through this type of lense.If the whole world consumed as much as USA, we would probably need three more globes.
Investment in Africa would have nothing to do natural resources, would it?..
I get you about the longevity and standard of living etc. but the current commercial system is failing worldwide.
So why wish more problems for Africa by inducing them into a faulty system.
$2,800 is 17,844.48 Swedish Crowns, that's quite livable - it is 2,505.92 Swiss Francs, that is low but one can survive modestly but adequately with that amount.
He says he is an economist. Well, The Economist (magazine) keeps running dire reports about the state of China's heavily polluted environment. THIS presenter promises us the same "industrial revolution" that China has seen in Africa. Wow, I'm really looking forward to having yet another global environmental catastrophe. Guys like this "economist" will make sure that the only way out of poverty is trough stone age capitalism and environmental destruction.
"Among the reasons I think it is happening right now is the quality of the leadership across Africa." Say what? I'll admit I'm not the most informed person on politics in general and especially on African politics, but somehow I find this hard to believe, especially since he doesn't back up his claim with anything other than his personal experience, i.e. anecdotal evidence.
So why no road and rail link/ bridge across the Strait of Gibralter.
This would be the marvel of the century and would change the continent for the better.
This is feasible because greater sea crossings have been bridged recently.
The distance is not great....google map it....
The gate to a super large continent...imagine the benefits....
The positive aspects of Europe would spread rapidly...
Peace and tolerance are admirable and a great aspiration but religious doctrine is what it is and religions seeking to convert others by force or through terrorist acts will always stand as an impediment to true peace and tolerance. The cultural, including religious, problems which continue to plague African economic stability will continue to hamper economic growth and make investment in SSA less desirable. The resources and manpower exist but the continental stability remains in question.
You keep your rose colored glasses on and tell yourself that they all support the same values and beliefs (they don't); and they will continue to commit atrocities on the general public. I wish the world were as peaceful as you've convinced yourself and I would like nothing more than to actually have religious freedom and tolerance but it needs to go both ways. Recent incidents in Texas, Ben Ghazi and other locations around the world don't comport with your idea of "peaceful"...open your eyes.
Here, here. However, your second assertion is not correct given the complexities and number of cultural things affecting economic growth. I.e. radical Islamic terrorists have obviously impacted the economic situation in most Mid Eastern and South Sahara African countries. They have great resources that everyone wants but most are not willing to deal with the political instability and lack of security.
OK...read more than one cherry picked book to attempt to support your point...and he only tries...his book is just his opinion and has very little concrete evidence to support any aspiration. I would challenge you to tell me where in the Bible it tells current day Christians to commit acts of violence to win followers or eliminate advocates...the Qur'an is loaded with direction to Islamic followers to now convert infidels (anyone not Islamic) either passively or actively through violence.
I think 50 years is a small amount of time for a country to properly form. Especially from where they started.
Things have progressed alot these days, but their is still alot of instability resulting from the repercussions.
Yes i believe we were 'a' root cause, and it is likely their are other smaller factors too.. but i can't think of any, can you?
My point is.. if a country starts out with no money, no education, little public services and corruption... they've got a long way to go..
Men take authority over women... As for those who are disobedient, admonish them and send them to beds apart and beat them. (Surah 4:34)
Believers, take neither Jews nor Christians for your friends. (Surah 5:51)
Fight against such as those to whom the Scriptures were given until they pay tribute out of hand and are utterly subdued." (Surah 9:29)
Shall I go on? There's plenty more of that stuff, if you want.
I think these comments show some misguided derisiveness towards Islam. Of all possible things, the Islamic religion is not going to be the reason why Africa has "no positive future," should that become the case. Dependence on foreign countries, corrupt dictatorial regimes, and quickly depleting natural resources are much more relevant challenges for Africa's future. Additionally, don't mistake Islam with the radical minorities who use it as an excuse for oppression and violence.
Wow, how many views and comments in such a short period of time. It still surprises me that people are interested in my continent ( yes a continent)! And what exactly is Africa's next boom , can we for once be more specific? What countries are we talking about? I understand the need to simplify everything but when you trying to talk growth, GDP and population, isn't it more efficient to narrow the info? It's quite frustrating to see that my continent is treated as a country! Well, it is not!
He didn't say anything about an impossible debt. He only mention a moral obligation.
you know, when when your parents "borrow" a large sum of money from the neighbor and didn't pay back. Then they died and you inherited the fortune. You may not have a legal obligation to pay back the neighbor son, but it is quite cold to close your eyes when you see the homeless neighbor's son walking by.
This excites me. The developed Western countries (basically Europe, USA, and Canada) are all in decline, but these Eastern countries in Africa and Asia are on the rise. Once I'm old enough (as I'm only 17 now), I hope to move out of the US and into one of these developing countries, probably not one in Africa but one in Asia. I find it funny our Europeans and Americans are so certain for a come back in their lands but that's ridiculous. Our countries' contribution to history is over folks.
Wittiness and sarcasm aside, I was trying to counter your position that the West should 'fix' its past mistakes through aid. I'd even say it's counterproductive. Even Bono now agrees that aid, even when directly to the people, doesn't help, but what does help is free market reforms and an ethos of respect for property rights, just like the West had learned during Renaissance and Enlightenment. If you want to help Africa, support African free market think thanks to spread these ideas.
I do know that, and it drives me nuts.
Unfortunately we have a shit system in place.. but it is a system which is still providing healthcare, education and clean water. But yes, most companies that have something to gain financially are generally not worth trusting.
Bare in mind, i can't stick my whole point of view in a 240 character comment.. i've already answered a couple of your queries further down the page.
have a good day
Hey no worries.
You are right, in theory a person shouldn't be judged on the actions of another. But in reality, everyone do.. their are few examples against me down the comments, yet i'd regard myself as one of the more passive/empathetic types. But then there are those with louder voices, that paint an entirely different picture of i and our society..
None the less, although we didn't commit the atrocities.. alot of wealth was pillaged that we owe back, along with some apologies. :)
I've seen the point made a couple of times, and its certainly not one to dispute. Government funding *atleast*, generally follows a procedure which looks good on paper but is shocking in reality.. (In my opinion) the money is much better sent to local charities who understand the local system. Obviously the whole picture is much bigger covering other areas like education and health.. but the debate would never stop then =P
the last time africa produced something world beating was 250,000 years ago. and africa produced homo sapiens. since then there hasnt been any great idea. the speaker points to india. india had built buildings, universities etc. even before the industrial revolution in europe. the same is true of even poor poor cambodia. not since the invention of homosapiens in africa.
this speaker is just a marketing specialist ... for africa.
There are different nations and different strcutures, SA have the same structure of USA (companies have huge influences), Nigeria is a corruptocracy (wins the more corrupt), Ghana and Kenya are democracies while Rwanda a "good dictatorship" Singapore-style, Zambia/Namibia and Botswana are democracies etc etc
Africa is not like EU (the same structure and almost the same people througout the continent), Africa is like Asia, every nation is completely different and the same is for the people.
Unfortunately your views are ignorant. Generalizing a major Abrahamic religion based on entirely your own experiences is plain stupid. If you were easily persuaded by watching a few videos you weren't really a 'Muslim' before. I always found that the problem lies with the followers and not the religion itself.
(i didn't watch the video i just came to see the comments because of the like bar, so I wish you to keep that in mind).
i don't think consequences can just be placed on long-term, multiple-generation objects like race or nationality. People with rightfully clear consciences shouldn't pay for others' ignorance or wrong-doing, surely?
The only problem with you statement is that many African "thought leaders" say that the Western "aid" has been a major part of the problem. It helped cement structures that are the exact opposite of what is needed for progress in Africa. Plenty of lectures, presentations, texts on this phenomenon are available, just ask Google.
Well OP's statement was very broad. If he was referring to just the militant side of Islam I would agree with you but just dismissing a whole religion as just inherently bad is edging towards racism. In Islam for example, people of a certain means have to give 2.5% of their income to charity, meaning that Muslims give more to Charity when compared to Jews or Christians. You can see how this would help in such a poverty riven continent.
"india had built buildings, universities etc. even before the industrial revolution in europe."
Ever heard of Timbuktu. Before commenting on something, ask your self if you know the slightest about what your talking about.
Slow down there buddy, the West is not responsible for most of Africa's problems. By all means do not underestimate the capacity of the African to royally fuck up their own continent. I say that as an African. Things are getting better, so let's look on the bright side and let go of the past.
[face palm] Yes, and who would obviously have the capital to invest? First-world corporations. Who would reap the profits? First-world corporations. The poor African people will be "corporate-raided" again - just as they have been for at least several hundred years.
This was a good talk.. To those crying in the comments.. No one has a right to winge about the aid that is being given to Africa.. We, the west fucked it up.. We, the west inherited a moral obligation to fix the problems our ancestors caused..
Face the facts and shut up.
The way investments work is that investors get a return and the company they invested in can provide that return because they are successful. You usually don't have one without the other (Bain Capital style raiders notwithstanding).
Yes, none of these topics or comments matter.
It's all about fun and insincerity , sorry I forgot.
Belinda and Melinda should stop trying to promote vasectomy in Africa. Africa's men are not dogs. We got brains.
Charles M. Sendegeya i love the african babies. they are our future
yes but a growing economy will pull them out of poverty. sure having large corporations there, are going to come with the same problems we have in the US, but at least the average citizens overall quality of life will be better.
Debt forgiveness, overseas factories, child labor, etc. What kind of TED talk is this? We do not want to move factories to Africa! This is what we are trying to stop!
Well I for one am glad that all those donations are actually doing something, question now is when do we cut it?
I can't say I agree with you. The idea that that there is a scarceness of resources on this planet is one of the biggest lies that has ever been told and unfortunately most people (mainly from rich western countries) seem to have bought into it. Overpopulation is a myth. The distribution of resources across the globe needs to be addressed not the availability. We really COULD all be rich, this assumption that we can't is the reason for this state of economic disparity.
You got any source or facts on this ? I would like to read...
Bla bla bla. Yet another economist. These days they get famous by making bold predictions and whether they get it right or not, they are slowly forgotten.
If you know what real Islam is, you will not say that. However, I kind of agree with this understanding of Islam Africa may not have a positive future.
if that were true america wouldn't be so religious. you're way ahead. if religious people will ever be a minority it;s going to take generations.
Surprised no one actually checked to see what $2800 a month is in swiss money and not in American dollars. 2800 is not much if your are Sweden
Whatever Africa does, may it not go the way of Europe, Asia or America. Let's have something different and better than these.
With growth comes the increase in resources usage. How can Africa not make the same mistakes the rest of the world already did?
Africans countries are not stupid now look at India do you see first world companies rising or Indian companies rising.
Africa invented slavoury? Did they teach ancient Mayans? or the Mongols too?
How about this.. don't bother replying.
Seems like a huge generalisation to refer throughout to 'Africa'... A huge landmass of diverse countries and cultures.
Interesting, you focus on the very distant past. The Russians are similar, just that they only look back to good old Stalin and the Tsars, when the (Russian) world was still great. This orientation towards the past, and blaming everyone else instead of getting a large mirror, is a sure sign for a people who don't have a future.
It was the Dutch, Spanish and other christian empires which influenced and exploited vulnerable African nations.
Saw this because I had a good Economics professor!!
No,that's not what he meant. He meant young men in general; as in, the maturity level of young men throughout any country is based on their education levels and whether they'll be able to be trainable and sustain growth.
I get the optimism and wish for things to turn out better, but this talk has hyperbole written all over it...
"We, the west inherited a moral obligation to fix the problems our ancestors caused.."
Hah, no. The obligation ended with those individuals who caused those problems.
and they never paid it though
A guy who invested in Africa is telling us to "buy african products" what a big fucking shock.
He said that the possibility of a large number of young, African men is dangerous!
Africa is the land of the future and will always be
Well.. this was pointless, it appears our opinions don't differ much.
Is this guy overly optimistic or is there real hope for this planet?
I don't want to be that guy, but have you ever heard of China?
"they can start pulling their own weight" you have no right to say that, you evidently haven't even read a history text book. I grew up there and I honestly wish I could show you how hard it is. It's not the people's fault, it's the governments and yours too for being so ignorant. Ugh people.
Inspiring talk. Good to see some optimism about the future of Africa.
Hey, TED's 1500th video on youtube, congratulations are in order I think?
well sed
1800 years of nothing?
What I heard was a call to invest in Africa's success. Injecting more money into the African economy by way of commercial investment in the actual African people (not just "involvement," which is sad and exploitative) would almost certainly make Africa a much better place to live as a whole in terms of overall wealth, life expectancy, etc. Success in today's global economy is built on trust that your country is capable of contributing to the economic landscape- investment builds that trust.
Ok how could you dislike this video.....
I think that there's a crucial difference between commercial exploitation of African resources and markets by setting up shop there and the investment in African businesses. I'm pretty sure the key points of the talk (as opposed to the instant poster-message) zoomed right over your head like a slug out of a slingshot.
an absolutely wonderful talk.
cool beans bro
This talk made me extremely happy. I would like to see an Africa in my lifetime which has risen beyond crippling poverty, disease and corruption.
Africa needs a bridge that links to with China and to Brasil, an highway for camions. Crazy infrastructure but it has possibilities to be funded.ì (more than Gib bridge)
A bridge to Europe is dangerous, or we'll be flooded in about 5 or 10 years. Look at what Spain/Portugal/Italy/Greece became in only 5 years.
the human race is the master race
Ghana: democracy
Nigeria: democracy (Goodluck will be kicked of the next elections)
Kenya: the same
Botswana: the same
what's the problem? The problem is you are not informed and
"you don't back up your claim with anything other than your TV experience"
Islam isn't always a bad thing