After Abuja: Africa and the Commonwealth

Author: Don McKinnon

Source: The Round Table, Volume 93, Number 375, July 2004 , pp. 403-409(7)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

There are many myths about Africa and many myths about the Commonwealth--and, very often, these myths are one and the same. One of the standard misconceptions about the Commonwealth is that it is merely a 'relic of the Empire'-- an organization that fulfils no useful rôle in the modern world. The truth is that the Commonwealth is a unique organization, which provides an international forum where each member country can have its voice heard and increase its weight in world affairs. It is a family of nations, whose members share not only a common identity, but common values and a common sense of purpose. The ties between Africa and the Commonwealth are long and rich. With 18 members, African countries collectively represent the largest regional constituency within the Commonwealth community. Africa's vast heritage and cultural diversity enriches the Commonwealth and deepens its global reach.

Keywords: Commonwealth; colonialism; Zimbabwe; NEPAD

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0035853042000249988

Affiliations: 1: Commonwealth Secretary-General

Publication date: 2004-07-01

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