Africa Editorial

Why is there a lack of media coverage in Africa? Are there not enough deaths there and not enough people being driven from their homes?

It is saddening to read the little news that comes out of Africa and even more devastating to see pictures of the suffering people. From 1990 to 2007 Africa has accounted for 88 percent of conflict death tolls in the world. The reason for this is greed. Africa’s natural resources such as diamonds and offshore oil are being fought over on a daily basis. This is clearly evident in the country of Angola. Angola has suffered over 500,000 deaths and has accumulated an estimated 3 million refugees since 1989. These numbers are all a result of greed. Several rebel groups in Angola fight over these resources, because they are being rewarded by foreign governments or multinational companies.

The diamonds that are smuggled out of the western part of Africa are called “conflict diamonds.” Conflict diamonds are illegally traded to fund warlords in Africa with supplies. The United Nations (UN) defines conflict diamonds as "...diamonds that originate from areas controlled by forces or factions opposed to legitimate and internationally recognized governments, and are used to fund military action in opposition to those governments, or in contravention of the decisions of the Security Council." The only way you can tell if a diamond comes from a conflict zone is by documentation. So when you go and buy jewelry for your sweet heart this Valentine’s Day make sure you ask for a non-conflict diamond. Today, more than 99 percent of diamonds are conflict free, but there is still much suffering in Africa and the sale of one-conflict diamond fuels the war.

Governments and traders need to take action. They should demand for peace and provide aid to these suffering countries. Traders such as diamond companies and arms manufacturers need to quit supplying these rebel warlords with supplies that fund the war. Together these groups need to demand that the U.N. sanctions be followed. Once the funding for these wars have ceased and a stable government is put into place it gives these countries an opportunity to boost their economy with the riches of their diamond resources. Now the question is will this peace happen sooner or later?

Many in Africa feel that the newly elected Barack Obama will provide much more aid due to his African decent. Under the George W. Bush administration Africa was brought to the front and was given more money than any other presidential administration. While Obama has problems to deal with in his own country, it is hard to see immediate changes will be made. Hopefully, his policies will provide more support than Bush’s policies, and bring about more change in Africa.

We can only do our part here at home by making it an important issue and staying informed. The only direct help we can provide Africa, besides volunteering overseas, is by purchasing diamonds from conflict free zones. So be aware of your purchases and we can do our part to help those who are suffering.