It’s not just about the money: To change the world we must change ourselves

The Mediterranean sea has become a graveyard for Africa’s youth. Every day, we see images of what would appear to be a continent racked by conflict and poverty, and people risking – often losing – their lives in an attempt to flee. 

Yet Africa has 11 of the 20 fastest growing economies in the world. Africa has enormous resources, and almost half of the world’s uncultivated land that is suitable for growing food crops. So why are so many people desperate to leave behind a land of such opportunity?

Part of the answer is that the vast wealth of Africa is often not being translated into development. Often it benefits only a few, or is squandered altogether.
Illicit outflows from Africa totaled $69 billion in 2014. To achieve development we need much more than just resources.
Certainly, money can address some of the deficits that trap millions of people – especially rural people -- in poverty.
They need infrastructure, starting with the roads that will ta