OBAMA AND THE GHANA YOUTH

from the Obama blog, 13 July 2009

While addressing Ghana’s parliament today, President Obama took a moment to say something to young people, telling them that the future of their nations lie in their hands:

“You have the power to hold your leaders accountable, and to build institutions that serve the people. You can serve in your communities, and harness your energy and education to create new wealth and build new connections to the world. You can conquer disease, and end conflicts, and make change from the bottom up. You can do that.”

“But these things can only be done if all of you take responsibility for your future.”

...a radio station presenter in Accra named Alhassan said:

“I think that just as the USA seems to be leading the West, President Obama reminded us Ghanaians of our rich history to challenge our/my generation to step up and lead and also inspire Africa. Like we have done before when Dr. Nkrumah and his generation inspired Rev. Martin Luther King and other blacks across the world and Africa when Ghana became the first to lower the Union Jack for our native flag. I feel challenged, Karen! He believes we can, and we can! Ghana can be to Africa what America is to the West and the world. Amen!”