MONICA KAYOMBO,Zambia,Lusaka
THE modernized Pan-African movement has gained momentum in Africa, pioneered by Ras Mubarak, a former parliamentarian and broadcaster with Ghana’s national broadcaster. Mr Mubarak and his Trans African Tourism and Unity Campaign team who were recently in Zambia have embarked on an ambitious journey, visiting 22 African countries since August by road, covering the SADC region, East Africa, West Africa, and parts of North Africa.
Their mission is to persuade governments to abolish visa requirements, unlocking opportunities for Africa’s 1.5 billion people to access 55 countries.
“It gives our people an opportunity to trade amongst ourselves, learn about each other’s culture, way of life, and traditions,” Mr Mubarak said in a recent interview.
The initiative is expected to boost tourism, with citizens moving freely to explore attractions across the continent.
Mr Mubarak highlighted Zambia’s potential to supply poultry and beef products to West Africa’s 450 million consumer market.
The team plans to visit 39 African countries, excluding some like Seychelles, Madagascar which are Islands including the Democratic of Congo (DRC) and Libya due to security concerns.
Their 120-day campaign advocates for a visa-free policy, promoting tourism and unity while showcasing Africa’s cultural heritage.
Mr Mubarak’s initiative aligns with Ghana’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, aiming for a politically united and integrated continent.
The call for Pan-Africanism, a movement dating back to the 19 th century, continues, echoing the vision of founding fathers like Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Pixley Ka Isaka Seme, and Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe among others.
The movement’s goal is to solidify bonds among indigenous Africans, promoting collective self-reliance and a United States of Africa.
Despite past challenges, the battle for Pan-African unity persists, with Mr Mubarak’s campaign breathing new life into the movement.
