We need an age of enlightenment in Africa.

Europe was able to colonise and conquer Africa because of knowledge. This is in essence what created the reneissance in Europe. It was not wealth. People such as Isaac Newton made discoveries in science and engineering and this formed the basis for industrial revolution in Europe and the United States. In the arts people such as Leonardo Da Vinci and Shakespeare advanced Europe's culture. These people were not that moneyed.

In Africa, we have our own geniuses that could propel us forward and make us rise politically, economically, and culturally. For instance, South Africa's Steve Biko did not have much money. But he was able to advance the ideals of black consciousness, and fight the might of the apartheid regime. He paid with his life. Many of our geniuses are either in the periphery in Africa, or working for foreign masters abroad. We now worship money more. 

Do you know that African leaders are the richest in the world? According to intelligence reports, former DR Congo dictator Mobutu Sese Seko used to give European Presidents money for campaigns. His children were day scholars in France. According to the secretive Panama Papers, another former Congolese President, Joseph Kabila, is worth 18 billion dollars. This would make him to be among the 100 richest people in the world. 

Our thought leaders offer the best hope for Africa. But all the money, fame and power goes to our politicians. We have the capacity to produce our own Einsteins, Isaac Newtons, or Shakespeare.