For instance, we're always fighting amongst each other. Who gives us the arms? And then we become indebted to wherever we are buying them from - with what? The very resources we need to keep there.
Miriam MakebaRead
It is very much the theme of our President, President Thabo Mbeki, whose passion is for Africa to work together, and for Africans to get up and do things for us. We are trying as women to do things for ourselves.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment and collective action among Africans, especially women.
Miriam Makeba highlights the vision of President Thabo Mbeki, which advocates for unity and proactive efforts among African nations and individuals. She stresses that women are taking initiative to empower themselves, reflecting a broader call for social engagement and responsibility in uplifting the continent through self-action.
Themes
AfricaEmpowermentCollective ActionWomenSelf-Initiative
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech at an international women's conference to inspire collective action.
More from Miriam Makeba
All quotes →Be careful, think about the effect of what you say. Your words should be constructive, bring people together, not pull them apart.
Miriam MakebaRead
I kept my culture. I kept the music of my roots. Through my music I became this voice and image of Africa and the people without even realising.
Miriam MakebaRead
In the mind, in the heart, I was always home. I always imagined, really, going back home.
Miriam MakebaRead
I see other black women imitate my style, which is no style at all, but just letting our hair be itself. They call it the Afro Look.
Miriam MakebaRead
Age is getting to know all the ways the world turns, so that if you cannot turn the world the way you want, you can at least get out of the way so you won't get run over.
Miriam MakebaRead
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