|
Dear Editors,
I
was impressed by Zewge Alemu’s description of the
conference held at the United Nations Economic
Commission for Africa (UNECA) on September 19 in the
Commentary headlined “Inspiration for
Diaspora Engagement” [Volume 8 Number 386, September
23, 2007]. It is quite interesting to see such
forums across the capital with senior government
officials taking advantage of the Millennium
celebrations.
However, confusions are arising among locals,
including myself, seeing the extra efforts taken by
the government to attract the Ethiopian Diaspora so
that the latter engage in investment projects here.
The reason behind this contradiction is the day to
day media campaign of the ‘let us return back to our
homeland and build our country together’, assuming
that every Diaspora is a potential developer.
It is indeed indistinct whether or not those
Ethiopians residing in foreign countries have the
ability to involve in business. I, for a moment,
questioned whether there is an untold secret behind
the Ethiopian Diaspora, particularly those of the
Ethio-Americans.
Do they possess great wealth beyond our
considerations? Therefore, why is this issue given
so much attention?
I
have read on some papers lately about the Chinese
and Indian economic’ booms explaining that it was
due to contributions from theirs respective
Diasporas. True grounds indeed, unfortunately it
does not seem to be realistic in our case.
Most Ethiopians are not keen and humble enough to
work hand-in-hand to prosper. We lack the habitude
of forgiveness and ability to skip over important
matters, focusing too much on the pointless. I
believe we need to first reflect on our weaknesses
and revolutionise our culture toward the better.
On the other hand, individuals willing to carry out
businesses are supposed to own at least the talent,
capital and of course the persistence to go all the
way through the poor bureaucracy and insufficient
infrastructure. I firmly consider that they are able
to contribute professionally using their experiences
in the West, besides business.
I
doubt whether they have the will toward serving
their country with the insufficient salary compared
to what they are paid in foreign countries.
I
am led to comment after observing the conduct of
some returnees. Those returning from aboard,
particularly from the United States (US), are packed
with negative comments, and lack determination. They
attribute their behaviour to irreconcilable
political differences with the current government.
Most of them consider themselves to be a “first
class citizen”, who must be given special attention.
The locals are supposed to render service for them
so that they can invest in this country. I am not
being envious here.
I
would, however, like to appreciate returnees such as
Ermias Amalga and Tadios Belete who have proven that
it is possible to see the light at the end of the
tunnel. Well done for their pioneering achievements
reached after overcoming all the barriers.
|
