Prominent Kenyan lawyer and activist, Prof. Patrick Lumumba, has drawn attention to what he describes as a modern form of slavery—African talents emigrating abroad through work visas. Speaking at an Independence Day Anniversary event organized by Pastor Poju Oyemade’s The Covenant Nation in Lagos, Lumumba emphasized that Africa must redefine itself in the face of this trend.
Lumumba, a former head of the Kenyan anti-corruption agency, expressed concern that although colonialists left Africa some decades ago, they are still indirectly exploiting the continent. He highlighted the mass exodus of African professionals to Europe, America, and other regions as a concerning phenomenon akin to modern slavery.
He stated, “When we judge Africa, we must ask ourselves from whose lens are we judging Africa. The colonists left (Africa) but never left. Africa is the only country that is still being referred to as francophone or anglophone. We were the enablers of the first industrial revolution when our ancestors were taken to work on the farms in Europe. We enabled that revolution. Right now, we’re enabling the fourth and fifth industrial revolutions which is why there are talent visas because they’re taking our talents. If it is not our nurses, it is our IT experts or our engineers. We are gleefully letting them away.”
Lumumba’s remarks touched upon the concerns of many African nations, where skilled professionals often seek better opportunities abroad, leading to what some describe as a brain drain. He specifically criticized agreements in which African countries send their workers to other nations, likening it to modern-day slavery.
In a separate presentation, Nigeria’s Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, discussed plans to revitalize the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) by introducing a franchise system. This initiative aims to enhance the delivery of goods and services, making NIPOST a vital part of Nigeria’s economic growth.
Dr. Bosun Tijani emphasized the importance of a functional postal service in facilitating trade and enabling economic growth. He outlined a vision in which NIPOST locations could become multifunctional centers where individuals could access various services, including passport applications and banking.
The Nigerian government’s efforts to reinvigorate NIPOST reflect a commitment to improving infrastructure and facilitating economic activities within the country. As Africa grapples with the challenges posed by talent migration, Lumumba’s call to redefine the continent’s destiny serves as a reminder of the need for innovative solutions to retain and harness its human capital.
Source: [Punch]
