By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a world driven by technology and globalization, Sheku Mohamed Matthew Kallon, a business and technology consultant hailing from Sierra Leone, stands as a symbol of Africa’s audacity to compete in the global economy. As a naturalized American citizen with an extensive professional background in leading technology and management consulting firms, Kallon is currently spearheading a technology startup in Sierra Leone, combining the forces of Visionary System Technologies and Global Action Business Consulting LLC. Their collaborative international network has delivered innovative technology solutions to Fortune 100 companies worldwide.
Kallon draws inspiration from former U.S. President Barack Obama’s “The Audacity of Hope” and envisions a future where Africa reclaims its economic prowess. However, the path to such a transformation is fraught with complexity. Kallon acknowledges that factors like historical handicaps, access to knowledge capital, military strength, prejudices, geopolitics, and rapidly evolving landscapes play significant roles in shaping Africa’s place in the global economy.
Kallon’s belief lies in a few key adjustments that can unlock Africa’s economic potential. Efficient political power transfer for stability, a fair and just legal system, and the integration of the African Diaspora are essential elements. The Diaspora encompasses those who identify with their African heritage, whether recent immigrants to the West or descendants of those sold or kidnapped into slavery. With these changes, Kallon foresees a shift in the global economic dynamics, with Africa emerging as a formidable contender against North America, Europe, and China.
One pressing issue that Kallon addresses is the historical imbalance in trade. Africa has often imported manufactured goods while exporting raw materials. Prices for African exports have fallen while import values have risen. While acknowledging past injustices, Kallon contends that Africa can shed its victim mentality and adopt a can-do attitude. To do this, he calls for a shift from being mere consumers of finished products to becoming producers and exporters, harnessing available technologies.
African engineers and IT professionals are already contributing to innovation in developed economies. With the right incentives and political environment, these experts could return to Africa, fueling economic growth that rivals China and India. The key difference, Kallon points out, is that the BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India, and China) have embraced policies to encourage such repatriation of talent, while African nations have been hesitant until recently.
Kallon’s optimism is shared by many in Africa who believe in the potential of their continent. They argue that Africa must challenge the current global economic status quo. By generating capital through exports rather than relying on loans and aid, African nations can attract more investors and create an environment where private sector investment thrives. This, they argue, will stimulate economic growth and reduce the need for external financial assistance.
Despite the challenges, there is evidence that Africa can compete and lead in the global economy. Countries like Botswana, Mauritius, Ghana, and Uganda have managed substantial reform programs and private sector revitalization, achieving growth rates akin to those in East Asia. African professionals are eager to return and contribute to this growth, provided they receive the necessary support from their governments.
In a world where African nations have historically faced trade imbalances, bureaucratic hurdles, and debt, Sheku Mohamed Matthew Kallon and many like him see the audacious potential for Africa to rise and lead in the global economy. As they advocate for change, they believe that Africa’s future generations, as well as the continent’s storied history, demand nothing less.
