”The Constitution includes the most important cultural value on which our society is based: Ubuntu or ‘what is mine is yours’. This is a Bantu expression that indicates benevolences towards one’s neighbour. It is a rule of life based on the respect of others. When appealing to Ubuntu, we usually sayUmuntu ngumuntu ngabant, which means ‘I am what I am by virtue of what we all are’. Ubuntu calls for mutual help and awareness not only of rights, but also of duties. It aims to drive all of humanity towards peace.”
This reflection concludes a long interview conducted by Gabriele Santoro for Lumsa News with Martin Nkafu Nkemnkia, Professor of Culture, Religion and African Philosophy at the At the Gregorian and Lateran Pontifical University. These are crucial questions and answers to understand Africa, which “does not need armaments, but food, infrastructures for society and technological know-how”.
Africa - Where Peoples are not Represented, n.. 41, 19 November 2008, pgs. 12-13 (Download Pdf).
Martin Nkafu coordinates the Digital Bridge Project in Cameroon. Just two weeks ago, on Novembre 4, Fontem, in the region of Lebialem, was connected to the Internet, allowing schools and hospitals to interact with the rest of the world. (See the News: Digital Bridge: Fontem is on-line).
- ICT for Global Instruction and e-Inclusion
- The Digital Bridge Project in Cameroon
- Photos taken by Mr. De Simone
