Fayemi Warns Africa on Weak Institutions and Xenophobia

Kayode Fayemi, the former Governor of Ekiti State, delivered a warning to Africa regarding the risks posed by weak institutions, xenophobia, and economic dependency during the 16th Africa Day lecture organized by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation in Cape Town, South Africa. He addressed the theme of advancing African unity, sovereignty, and solidarity, highlighting that many African countries are grappling with weakened democratic governance, increasing insecurity, and economic dependency, which erodes public trust in leadership.

Fayemi noted that military coups in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, reflect a deeper failure of governance institutions rather than mere political accidents. He cautioned against the growing wave of xenophobia, particularly in South Africa, which undermines the ideals of pan-African unity.

Fayemi recalled Nigeria's sacrifices in supporting South Africa's liberation and insisted that economic hardships and unemployment should not justify hostility against fellow Africans. He called for the promotion of continental citizenship and stressed the importance of teaching younger generations to embrace their African identity.