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At the Yale Africa Innovation Symposium, Kah Walla, a distinguished entrepreneur and political leader from Cameroon, shared her perspectives on leadership and governance in Africa. As the first woman to run for president in Cameroon and a prominent opposition leader, Walla emphasized the necessity of building functional states across Africa to ensure sustainable development and progress.
Politics and Governance as Africa’s Backbone
Walla highlighted that governance is the backbone of every society. She stressed that while many students may not be directly studying politics, understanding governance is essential to fostering growth across all sectors. Her discussion provided students with a fresh perspective on governance as a structural necessity, prompting them to consider the role of political systems in shaping Africa’s future.
Reflections on the Symposium and Its Organizers
Expressing her appreciation for the symposium, Walla described the energy and passion of young Africans in attendance as inspiring. She praised the event’s format, particularly its interactive lab-style sessions, which allowed for deep engagement beyond traditional speeches. However, she also posed a challenge: how to extend such conversations beyond the diaspora and into Africa itself. She called for initiatives that connect African students abroad with their counterparts on the continent, fostering collaborative thinking and solutions for Africa’s transformation.
The Role of The Voice of Africa in Political Reform
Walla emphasized the importance of African-led media like The Voice of Africa in shaping the continent’s governance discourse. She expressed her hope that The Voice of Africa would drive conversations on state-building, focusing not on political ideologies but on fundamental governance principles. According to her, the key question should be: How do we build states that effectively deliver basic services to their citizens? By engaging both the diaspora and those on the continent, The Voice of Africa has the potential to foster meaningful political reforms.
Cameroon’s Beauty and Strength
When asked about her favorite thing about Cameroon, Walla passionately described its unparalleled diversity. She noted that Cameroon is not only a biodiversity hotspot but also a cultural and geographical mosaic, with deserts, rainforests, beaches, and grasslands. However, above all, she highlighted the resilience and ingenuity of Cameroonians. She expressed confidence that Cameroonians will not only build their nation’s future but also contribute significantly to Africa’s broader development.
As the symposium concluded, Walla left attendees with a powerful message: Africa’s future depends on strong, functional governance. She called on young leaders, both in Africa and the diaspora, to take an active role in shaping the continent’s trajectory. Her words reinforced the symposium’s theme of collective vision and action, inspiring many to engage in the crucial work of state-building and political reform.
