Departed Soul
On Sunday, 2nd January 2022, the World watched the ‘rainbow nation’ South Africa bid final farewell to one of its heroic Son; a unique arch and rebellious freedom advocate, and humble servant of God.
As the body of the late Desmond Tutu, affectionately referred to as the “Arch” laid in state; the eminent question on the minds of many is: will South Africa become the Country envisaged by this iconic Liberation Theologist.
As the last great hero of the struggle against apartheid, the late Archbishop was a unique caliber of incomparable legend among his contemporaries; such as the late Nelson Mandela, and John Lewis.
New generation response
We wonder in awe from the diaspora, millions of miles away from “Mama Africa”, a continent of youthful potential and yet with uncertainties as to the future of its Sons and Daughters.
Will “Africa Unite” to attain the clarion re-echoed by Marcus Garvey´s “back to Africa” movement and the African Union’s 2063 agenda to build a “United Africa” desired by the Children of a wailing continent.
Will the new generation of African Diaspora seize the day and respond with vigor and advocate for change to make impact such as the influence of the late Archbishop Tutu for a silent majority?
Can the African Diaspora resolve to adopt a standard of uncompromising principles to champion voices of the voiceless in the Spirit of the “Arch”?
Most concerning, is: would Africa as a continent ever integrate holistically to realize the true potential of its wealth, human resources and knowledge-based capital?
Imago Dei
In humility, morality and servitude, the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu was bibliocentric in his faith that man is “created in the image and likeness of God”.
Hope, Faith and Love
The late Archbishop was not only a “moral compass” of dignity, truth, and respect for humanity; but also a man immersed in the “fruits of the Spirit”. Such characteristics embodied Desmond Tutu as the “healer of South Africa” standing at the helm of truth and reconciliation of a bruised and wounded nation post-Apartheid.
End of an Era
The Arch will always be remembered, cherished and Celebrated not only on the African continent, but globally. Rest in Peace Rebel! Freedom is not yet fully attained. His Rebellious Spirit for Freedom will resonate and remain in our memory; especially his humanity, infectious chuckles and sweet dances.
New Dawn
As we enter 2022 with anticipation of hope for a better future worldwide, our most pressing challenge is the fate of Africa’s economic future in terms of our freedom to make indiscriminate choices for socio-economic integration, democracy and political progress.
How many of this generation of Africans are determined to be “first” black and/or “first” African to achieve anything best for the common good of all? How are we to impart to the minds of young generations of Africans the essence of selflessness and instill the worth to sacrifice for the common good of humanity?
In this respect, we remember with fondness the late Arch in his fierce and fearless Rebellion for Freedom…
Written by:
Cucu Wesseh
