Obama's Africa policy speech on Saturday, delivered to the Ghanian parliament, focused heavily on what Gerald LeMelle, executive director of Africa Action, calls "the principles:" good governance, democratic institutions, and accountability. Instead of merely focusing on the United State's role in Africa's struggles, he challenged the people of the continent to take it upon themselves to improve their countries, by demanding democratic institutions and fighting corruption in everyday life. In other words, waiting for change isn't an option. Obama, the son of a Kenyan, did exactly what activists were hoping he would: He took a hard stance against corrupt African governments. In the past, a major criticism of democracy promotion has been its reliance on elections alone as a measure of "democracy." Obama's speech made very clear that he intends to avoid this trap, with a sharp criticism of repression beyond the voting booth and a pointed note about "some backsliding" in democracy-building across Africa. "In the 21st century, capable, reliable, and transparent institutions are the key to success -- strong parliaments; honest police forces; independent judges; an independent press; a vibrant private sector; a civil society," the president said. "Those are the things that give life to democracy, because that is what matters in people's everyday lives." Obama cut to the chase and sharply reprimanded the "big men" of Africa -- local strongmen, dictators, and others who seek to retain individual power at the expense of democracy. And, perhaps most importantly, he emphasized the role that Africa should have as an integral player in American foreign policy going forward. Using Ghana as an example, he pledged to be a partner to those countries that are willing to help themselves develop strong institutions and rule of law. For full text of the speech in Accra, click here. --Christine Anderson
