As we celebrate Madaraka Day, it is crucial that we reflect on how far we have come as a country and where we are headed. One of the most significant challenges that Kenya faces today is neocolonialism.
For many years, Kenya has struggled to break free from the shackles of neocolonialism, which is the economic, political and social dominance of Western powers over African countries. Although Kenya gained independence from British colonial rule in 1963, the country has been unable to shake off the legacy of colonialism that still lingers in our society.
Neocolonialism has taken many forms in Kenya, including economic exploitation, political manipulation and social marginalisation. Despite our efforts to build a prosperous and equitable society, we have been held back by the insidious influence of Western powers, who seek to maintain their dominance over our country and our people.
One of the most damaging aspects of neocolonialism is how it stifles innovation and progress. When Western powers control our economy and our institutions, they make it difficult for talented and driven Kenyans to rise to the top and contribute to the development of our country. Instead, they promote policies that are designed to benefit their interests, often at the expense of our own.
To overcome neocolonialism, we need to recognise how it infects our institutions and our culture. We must take ownership of our destiny and reject the notion that we need Western powers to lead us in the right direction. We must develop our own solutions to the challenges we face, and we must be willing to take risks and try new things.
This process will be difficult, but it is essential if we are to build a truly independent and prosperous Kenya. We must focus on promoting economic self-sufficiency, developing innovative solutions to our problems, and building a society that is inclusive and equitable for all.
As we celebrate Madaraka Day, let us commit to the ideals that Madaraka stood for – self-determination, innovation and progress. Let us work together to build a Kenya that is free from the grip of neocolonialism, one that is resilient, prosperous and just for all its citizens.
Communication and media technology student, Maseno University
