The actions of leaders often influence young people, who seek to imitate them. A self-respecting person is often a reflection of a self-respecting leader. There are no bad people, just bad leaders.
The Ugandan president faced a very delicate situation some time ago. The Indians wanted to buy Ugandan iron ore at a very low price and resell it at a much higher price. The idea here was to buy a tonne at $47 and, after transforming it into steel, sell it for around $600. In this case, the Ugandan president declared that as long as he was at the head of the country, he would never be able to make such a deal. He turned down the offer, well aware that it would have meant a loss for the country, as well as not contributing to local development.
Iron: an essential resource
Steel is a very important part of our daily lives. Much of it is found in Africa, more specifically in East Africa, and of better quality. Once it has been transformed into steel, it can play many roles. It is used to reinforce concrete for houses, reinforce foundations, transport water, gas and many other fluids. It can also be used to form the skeletons of buildings, be they schools, factories, housing, sports halls or even to clad roof façades. The automotive sector, for example, is steel’s second-largest market, behind the construction and public works sector. Steel makes up 55-70% of a car’s weight, including the body frame, tire carcass, engine and steering components.
Even in the field of communication, steel is important. The electronic components used in computers and telecommunications, as well as the functional elements of TV tubes, are delicate parts with special requirements. In short, it’s an essential element of a project’s architecture and aesthetics.
Read more: The President of Uganda: A model of resilience and respect for national values
What did the Ugandan president do?
Instead of accepting this unfair deal, Yoweri Museveni decided to undertake research to develop a steel production plant in Uganda. He decided to carry out this project in partnership with his neighboring country, Kenya. He decided to export more than a ton of iron to Kenya every year for 20 years. However, their contract stipulated that Uganda should have a controlling interest in these processing plants in Kenya. The two countries agreed to share the profits equally. Jobs were allocated to both Ugandans and Kenyans. This initiative demonstrates the Ugandan president’s determination to free the country from foreign influence by exploiting its own resources.
The importance of teamwork
This choice to work with a neighboring country reflects a mentality of collaboration and profit-sharing. Sometimes, to succeed, you need to work with others instead of trying to control everything yourself. This applies not only to companies, but also to political leaders and the general public.
Foreigners were also invited to provide expert advice. Unfortunately, in some African countries, the arrival of foreigners is often perceived in a negative light, with hostile reactions. However, it is essential to recognize that respect for Africa and its people begins with respect for oneself and others. Individual and collective behaviors greatly influence the way Africa is perceived.
It’s important to recognize the differences between Africans. Each country has its own culture and way of behaving, so it’s essential to respect these differences. Travelling through African countries will allow you to see these variations and appreciate the continent’s diversity.
Totally inspired by Zack Mwekassa’s video
