AIDS, corruption hurdles for Africa, former leader says

By Molly Leaverton

Establishing democratic governments in sub-Sarahran Africa is beneficial, but those same nations face corruption and the growing problem of AIDS, the former president of Botswana told a university audience last week.

Former President Ketumile Masire spoke about his experience helping Botswana become the most politically transparent nation in Africa to reduce corruption. Masire served as president of Botswana from 1980 until 1998.

His talk was part of a panel discussion on "Democracy in Africa," hosted by the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics.

Masire realizes that many difficulties lie ahead for African nations trying to democratize. Each African country, he says, is different, and there is no standard model that will work for every country.

"Africans call for democracy to fit their own situation," he said.

He also said that there are still many obstacles standing between many sub-Saharan African countries and complete democratization: corruption within the government, exploitation and the legacy of Africa's colonial past.

But Masire believes that AIDS is perhaps the greatest challenge that African nations will need to overcome. "Because of the AIDS pandemic, every sector of our economy is effected. HIV/AIDS is Africa's biggest challenge. I hope that the future shows that we are up to this challenge," he said.

Masire said more developed countries should assist in African development by investing in Africa and in the African economy.

"Economic development is an essential component of developing a successful democracy," he said.

Despite the difficulties, Masire spoke with the belief that Africa's future holds democracy.

"There is a ray of hope that many African countries are now democratizing," he said. "Many African countries now are engaging in economic strategies that are likely to ensure economic progress. Things are changing and changing fast and for the better."

Many students and faculty were appreciative of his honest and intelligent talk.

"The former President of Botswana was articulate in explaining the past and present socioeconomic and political realities in Africa. It was amazing to hear such a distinguished leader speak from a humble and informed perspective. This type of character among politicians is hard to find," said freshman Ricky Alexander.

Political science professor Eric Hanson agreed. "Santa Clara students and people should not underestimate how difficult it is to get somebody of this caliber," he said. "There are some people for whom it is an honor to meet, and he is one of those people."

Since the end of his presidency, Masire has taken a highly active role in African international politics.

He served as vice chairman of the Organization of African Unity in 1991, participated in the 1999 Nigerian Assembly and Presidential Elections and from 2000 to 2003, and was facilitator for the Inter-Congolese National Dialogue, among many other positions he has held.

Masire's success is partially based on his relative autonomy, Hanson said.

"It is important that there are these kinds of people to play a major role in international affairs. Especially, on ethical questions because they are no longer held to the policy of their governments," he said.

Masire's experience in politics added to the depth of the discussion, senior Kristina Pereira-Tully said.

"The first-hand insight provided by a leader, at the forefront of true democracy building cannot be matched," she said.

Contact Molly Leaverton at (408) 554-4546 or at mleaverton@scu.edu.