Natural Resources, Governance and Green Economy: Africa’s Past, Present and Future Trends for Sustainable Development
Mr Muzamwese’s presentation was unique and interesting. He started the presentation by defining Globalization in his own words: meeting of minds from different parts of the world. Africa is endowed with rich stock of natural resources: be it minerals, water, precious stones, wildlife or fertile land. He adds that the African countries rely heavily on the natural resources for their sustenance and the needs of each African country is different from the other. He raises some intriguing questions like Is globalization good for Africa; How can Africa benefit from globalization and What are the risks and benefits of globalization for Africa.
Speaking on the benefits, Mr Muzamwese says that Africa can benefit from the transfer of technology from the developed world, that would help the African nations to address environmental challenges. On the risks of globalization, he believes that it is used as a tool to usurp Africa's natural resources. Mr Muzamwese further asserts that the governments of the African countries must play a central role and adopt strategies to safeguard the natural resources of Africa and move towards a path of sustainable development. He stresses the importance of a non-traditional approach where the civil societies, academics and investors play a leading role in the sustainable development of the African nations. In the context of Climate Change, it is the need of the day for enhanced cooperation between the developed and developing countries through globalization to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Mr Muzamwese believes that there is a prospect for African countries to develop economically while also addressing the social and economic impacts which are accompanied by rapid economic development. He further asked the participants for their suggestions and inputs regarding the approach of African countries to globalization and economic development.
Report compiled by
Yaqoob Saleem
MA (International Studies)
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