Article June 18, 2007 Issue

A prayer to heal poverty in Africa

BY BOSEDE FUNMILOLA BAKAREY

All over the world, many people are joining in the search to find a lasting solution to the poverty that is prevalent in Africa. Many are genuinely concerned. And who wouldn't be? Watching the news on Africa, one can't help but be moved by the faces of young children and adults who roam the streets of many African countries—hungry, homeless, and many times inadequately clothed.

It is generally mentioned that the incessant wars and diseases that plague Africa are the result of poverty and lack of good governments, supply, education, etc. There are other contributing factors—dishonesty, corruption, mismanagement of funds, greed, selfishness, unfair distribution of wealth, and HIV/AIDS, which is destroying a large percentage of the youths at an alarming rate.

International organizations have sent in and continue to send tons of relief materials, educational, social, and financial aid. Aid workers in Africa are doing a great job. Yet, poverty and disease appear to be on the increase, and fresh wars and diseases are breaking out.