The 20th World Economic Forum on Africa concluded in Dar es Salaam with a call to end the continent’s marginalization. Africans must believe in themselves and “be the change they want to see” was a message that resonated across the Forum’s sessions and private meetings. President Kikwete of Tanzania reminded participants at the closing plenary that the smallest share of global exports comes from Africa – just 3.5%. “Africa remains predominantly a primary producer and importer for industrial use. We produce what we don’t consume and we consume what we don’t produce,” he said. “This cannot continue.”

In a plenary session on the final day of the World Economic Forum on Africa, regional leaders discussed the challenges facing democracy in post-independance Africa. During the past 15 years Africa has moved towards constitutional order, political stability and democracy, despite issues posed by delayed elections and negotiated “unity” governments. “However, the benefits of democracy must lead to economic development and help reduce poverty – to improve the quality of life of ordinary people,” said Jacob G. Zuma, President of South Africa. “You can’t eat democracy.”