The problem with Africa

More on the latest struggle in Congo. ~ link

On the one hand it would be wrong to ignore this current wave of violence and suffering -- to let it go unchecked by the world. On the other hand, most of the world has such a limited understanding of Africa (including myself) that every time there is a flare-up in one place it tends to scare investors away from the whole continent. And it seems that what they really need in the long run are investors who can stimulate economic development -- which will help Africans create their own futures -- their way.

If we're always viewing Africans as poor needy victims it is difficult to view them as partners. Of course, much of the current violence has to do with who is going to profit from the investment that is going on. Then if you mix in tribalism -- it's all so messy.

The challenge is to keep both hands moving at once and not give up on Africa. God is good.