Africa better without colonialism

I still believe in the proverb of my African ancestors which says "Silence is the best answer to a fool". But despite this, whenever Africa is carelessly mentioned in a biased way, we have a duty to enlighten him or her. This was the case of Hilde May (July 30) who obviously is one of the children of our ancestors' colonizers.

Mrs. May is probably one of those who fail to take note of how negatively they are perceived by most innocent people worldwide. But I pity those who still think they are "so precious" in this era.

She missed the point by trying to prove who she is by citing wars in Africa. I am happy that at least she is aware there are only a few countries still fighting a war in Africa. But if you are from Europe, don't forget the terrible carnage in Bosnia. And I don't want to mention the abominable Irish war.

Do you care to know of the recent war in Albania? In all these cases, hunger killed many though the world is never always aware of this. If you are Australian, I care to remind you of the way in which Aborigines were exterminated in the name of colonialism. If you are American, I would like to remind you of the inhumanity against African-Americans during the colonial period. Their situation today has not greatly improved.

I also suggest you read the history of your ancestors' arrival in Africa. Many of the colonialists were driven by hunger and in their search for a better life they were lucky to have discovered resourceful Africa. The strongest message you should take home is that you should thank The Jakarta Post for publishing letters that told you who you are.

I promise not to say one more word on colonialism. All this is in respect of my ancestors' proverb. Let me end by repeating what I wrote in my July 26 letter i.e. Africa would have been clean had it no contact with colonialism.

BUHARI ABDU

Jakarta