Although TRIBALISM and Ethnocentrism are two different words,tribalism and ethnicity appears to be inseparable in the case of Africa.

ETHNOCENTRISM is the belief in the superiority of one's ethnic group, and TRIBALISM also is the exaltation of ones tribe above others. Upon critical examination and analysis, it is of no doubt that both ethnocentrism and tribalism demonstrate the feeling that one's tribe or ethnic group is more important and superior to that of others, which as a result brings disdain, disrespect and inappreciable favoritism which scathed our dignity and gravitas as Africans.

"EXTREME" tribalism and ethnocentrism can not be exempted from the predicaments causing the devastation of Africa's "UNITY" and "PEACE" which were the motivation factor which led the blood shed and toiling of our Forefathers to safeguard the African continent.

 

Anywhere the words ethnocentrism and tribalism are pronounced, people often think about the ethnic aspect only, leaving some crucial parts. Tribalism however is not just about tribes. It includes loyalty to ones party or a group,being it religious, social, political among others.

 

Loyalty to a group is not always a bad idea but it becomes dangerous when taken to the "EXTREME" as seen in the case of some Islamists unfortunately committing atrocities and still believe they are pleasing Allah and his holy prophet which to is a stereotype .

 

We have for the past years witnessed inauspicious events and scenes emanating from "EXTREME" tribalism and ethnocentrism in Africa.

 

Its obvious that fighting tribalism and ethnicity in Africa is no different from fighting against indigenous culture,traditions, language etc which is not prudent or the best way to go. This is because what makes Africa a great continent is our diverse beautiful cultures and traditions and we can not throw them away.

 

However, "EXTREME" tribalism and ethnocentrism are what breeds war and tribal conflicts even religious struggles to some extent. And these calamities end up ruining the "PEACE" and "UNITY" of Africa which are the very platforms upon which Africa can develop to be a desirable continent.

 

I AM THEREFORE APPEALING TO THE HEADS OF STATES, KINGS AND QUEENS,VARIOUS RELIGIOUS BODIES AND LEADERS OF OUR FAITHFUL AND BLESSED CONTINENT TO STAND AND TAKE PRACTICAL RESPONSIBILITY IN AN EXEMPLARY MANNER TO HELP ERADICATE "EXTREME" TRIBALISM AND ETHNOCENTRISM SO AS TO CONVEY AND IMPLEMENT MECHANISM WHICH WILL HELP PROMOTE UNITY,PEACE AND HARMONY ON THE AFRICAN CONTINENT FOR EFFECTIVE GROWTH AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT.

 

Long live Africa, Long live SAF

Ambassador ABEL TETTEH

(One of SAF's writers).