Is Africa still in love with Obama?
The midterms could cause a significant shift in power as President Obama has suffered a dramatic drop in popularity at home. Some opinion polls have given him an approval rating of less than 40%.
It's likely there'll be many more votes for his opponents, the Republicans, and if more of their representatives get seats in Congress, it will be harder for President Obama to get things done.
Just two years ago President Obama enjoyed unprecedented global popularity, especially in Africa, given his Kenyan ancestry.
So as America takes its own political temperature, is Africa still in love with Barack Obama? How do you think he is faring as America's first black President? Do you care whether his approval rates are up or down, and why?
If you would like to debate this topic LIVE on air on Tuesday 12 December at 1600 GMT, please include a telephone number. It will not be published.

Comment number 1.
At 15:09 29th Oct 2010, Elizabeth Kuranchie-Mensah wrote:In actual fact, Africans will continue to love and admire Prez.Obama after all the first black american President.I think Prez Obama has a mission and he is visionary.Of course if you have a mission and you cannnot aspire to get to where you want to, then I think you really need to revise your mission and vision statement. Americans should just relax for our man to get things done the way it will benefit the good of all.Patience is more precious than "GOLD"
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Comment number 2.
At 20:17 29th Oct 2010, Ismail Rashid wrote:Many Africans may have whittled down their enthusiasm for the first black/African president of the United States, and their expectations of the value of the Obama presidency for Africa. Despite his early symbolic visit to the continent, the Obama presidency has not significantly shifted US-African relations or established any meaningful dialogue between the two parts of the world. Part of the reason for Obama's lack of engagement with Africa is due to the seemingly intractable foreign and domestic problems that he inherited. Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine, and other frontiers of the US war against terror have consumed the greater proportion of the attention of his administration. The deep financial, housing, and employment crisis continues to drive growing domestic resentment against him and the democrats. Some of this domestic resentment, given the history of the US, is clearly racially-motivated. Engaging deeply and seriously with Africa might simply intensify this domestic resentment. Ultimately, Barrack Obama will continue to enjoy a lot of solidarity from Africans, and peoples of Africans descent in the US and around the world. His political achievement -even though it has not yet been translated into concrete change for them - still has a great symbolic resonance, especially in showing individually and collectively how far peoples of African descent have traveled in the last century.
[Personal details removed by Moderator].
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Comment number 3.
At 20:25 29th Oct 2010, Kingsley O wrote:I think Africans would probably be forever in love with President Obama.
Yes. Although his late mother was white and his father was a Kenyan. Not to mention the fact that he was practically raised by his White side of the family, the whole world see President Obama as Black or African-American. In fact,many of his distractors here in the U.S. known as the "Birthers" continue to say he was not born in Hawaii but in Kenya. Whether president Obama is a one-term or two term president, he has made history as the first African-American president. As a Nigerian-American who has made the U.S. home, I think many African-Americans or decendants of slaves while excited to see the first African-American/Black president, are a little jealous that president Obama is a first generation a Kenyan-American not a decendant of slaves. The election of president Obama is a manifestation of the ultimate American Dream. It is only in America that almost anything is possible. As for the possibility of Democrats losing control of Congress thus making it difficult to pass president Obama agenda, I will simply suggest that if Democrats are smart, they should tie all their bills to the support of the state of Israel. As crazy as the Republicans , Tea Partiers and Obama haters are, they will never vote against the interest of the state of Israel. I know that anything that resemble a slight critisism of Israel is considered anti-semitic. I am not anti-semitic. I just think that Democratic tying their bills to Israel to get support in congress is smart politics.
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Comment number 4.
At 00:54 30th Oct 2010, MelodySystem wrote:We still support the bro. He is the man of change.
Africa for Brother Barack !!!
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Comment number 5.
At 01:58 30th Oct 2010, AKPAN wrote:The fact that Mr Obama is of Kenyan ancestry does not mean his presidency has any more to do with Africa than Clinton's had to do with Ireland where his ancestors apparently came from. Enough, therefore, of this nonsensical supposition. Conversely, his personal popularity in Africa should have nothing to do with his performance as US president, except if the suggestion is that Africa's economic future is in some way tied to the American economy - a demonstrable fallacy given our inability to trade due to lack of productive capacity.
But perhaps I should use this opportunity to comment on his performance as president. What I find truly remarkable is that his popularity in America itself remains above that of Reagan and Clinton at similar stages of their tenure, in spite of the appalling economic mess he inherited. And this reaffirms my belief that contrary to common assumptions, Americans are overwhelmingly an enlightened, fair-minded and rational people, rather than the thoughtless fruitcakes that make up the extremist fringe movement called Tea Party.
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Comment number 6.
At 05:38 30th Oct 2010, makoboza wrote:I think Africans still love Obama but if we test the theory of 'YES WE CAN' i think it stands a test of time because classical theorists say that a theory is better than eloquent speeches. But since in Latin we assert that 'dum spiro spero'(while i breath,i hope),i think we still believe in Obama's change to let his theory have a better test.
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Comment number 7.
At 06:59 30th Oct 2010, Solomon Adee wrote:When President B.H. Obama started his campaigns for the office of the president of the United States of America, nobody (including myself) thought he would even get through to the primaries especially the people and forces he contended with. However, he mad it through and today he is serving trough his mid-term. God indeed had destined him to be there. My worries are some shifts i have observed with him. the issue of Iran nukes, Israel and Palestine, national prayer day, etc. He must remember that God who made it possible for him to be there today is alive and well able to take him out if he does not recognize the reason for his being in this position at such a time as this. i fear that it may not all go well with democrats this time around.
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Comment number 8.
At 07:56 30th Oct 2010, Somalishabab wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 9.
At 08:19 30th Oct 2010, Solomon Adee wrote:[Personal details removed by Moderator] If President Barack Hussein Obama assesses his performance in the last two years vis-a-vis his campaign promises, he will acccurately gauge the political temperature of the USA and his popularity, for if we judge ourselves, we shall not be judged. but there is room for improvement.
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Comment number 10.
At 08:34 30th Oct 2010, Ayele Shiferaw wrote:I am a black man as prez. Obama,But we should ask what has he done for Africa?Former prez Bush done better for Africa.To support prez. Obama because he is black?That is serious racism.
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Comment number 11.
At 12:08 30th Oct 2010, Fetene wrote:I think the popularity of Barack in Africa is not as it used to be two years ago. This is maybe because of the fact that the expectations from Barack Obama is simply too much. Some even thought that he is new elect of African President hoping he will influence Africans life. Let alone influencing the corrupted African leaders and the life of poor the president is left with many assignments at home (USA). Some even joked he is only "YES WE CAN" But practically No we cannot. I simply believe one thing that is Barack is the best achiver of black who has shown the world blacks can also do what othere can, contarary to what used to be thought. The approval is up to Americans! That should not bother Africans.
[Personal details removed by Moderator]
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Comment number 12.
At 17:03 30th Oct 2010, Mze-djimba wrote:[Unsuitable/Broken URL removed by Moderator]No sorry we don’t like him anymore. he is not for us but against us. We all saw how miss the point and said the wrong things in Ghana when he talked to the Africans at the first time since he become president. In anywhere anyone who was thinking well right from the beginning of the OB-front business should be able to read the signs that Obama would be the latest black coffee for the whites who are feeding him everything including even how to think. what coffee Annan did to Africa for eight years? But did he had the power to do anything? I don’t think so. We are already tired of this front strategy. To anyone who wants understand what Obama was brought to preserve please look at all of the episodes of this
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Comment number 13.
At 17:55 30th Oct 2010, Ewenet Hagere wrote:In love or not, how Africans feel about Mr Obama is not going to add or change or have any implication neither to Africa nor to the US . His African connection might be a cause of pride for us but it has in fact brought him a lot of enemies in the domestic front. Look at the tea party brigade who still question where he was born and crucify him over everything despite his contribution of averting economic depression, trying to create a universal health care and many more. No matter how much he tried, the poor man had been hailed as a messiah prior from the election, there is only one way from there-DOWN. As for Africans, we should stop looking to US presidents,black or white to sort us out for the simple reason that US Foreign policy is a continuity (of self interest) regardless of who is in power- we should always be mindful of this factor.
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Comment number 14.
At 18:18 30th Oct 2010, simon wrote:President obama inherited a ton of mess created and formented by the previous Administration. Look at what the Republicans did for the past 8 years pilling up problems and they would not even assist in solving them.They are not interested in governing, they creat road bolcks so they can remain in the White House. Obama is a good fighter to be where he is now. Watch him win a Second Term.
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Comment number 15.
At 18:19 30th Oct 2010, lucas obashe wrote:Obama is our hero. We stand by his leadership. We believe he has done alot for Americans during his first term. At least the war in Iraq and Afghanistan has subsided. In the long the lives of Americans will also improve greatly. He has made Africans to be respected worldwide. Kudos...we are with You Mr President.
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Comment number 16.
At 18:51 30th Oct 2010, KwasiGhana wrote:Africans (mainly Africans in the Diaspora) who care deeply about race and those who liked President George Bush’s African policies still love him but for Africans who care more about policy than race and who were looking for fundamental shift of U.S.-Africa relations President Obama has been unmitigated disaster for the African continent. Both Presidents Clinton and George Bush did more for Africa at this stage of their Presidency than what Obama Presidency has done so far. The former tried to move U.S.-Africa relations from a peripheral position in U.S. spectrum of interests and the latter started the process that led to quadrupling of U.S aid to Africa. President Obama cannot be remembered for any major African initiative. There is no single thing that President Obama has done that marks him out as a friend of Africa or that will enable Africans to remember him. For me the most disappointing thing is that he has showed little interest besides diplomatic niceties in Africa’s integration project and African Union, an institution built on ideas developed primarily by African-Americans and their Caribbean colleagues in the early 20th century.
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Comment number 17.
At 18:59 30th Oct 2010, KwasiGhana wrote:Complain about this comment (Comment number 17)
Comment number 18.
At 20:28 30th Oct 2010, odomeokollie wrote:'Love is a two way street, Since Africa first loveded him, it's now time he gives some love back'. Well, Africa will also support Obama no matter what. This is because as a continent we have come to understand the importance of been patient with our leaders.
furthermore, we all knew even before he was elected things was never going to be easy to accomplish. ( Making a mess is very easy thing to do but getting rid of the same mess is never easy in any capacity.If any body thinks we have forgotten Obama, that can never be true!! the reality is we are fully on our needs praying for his seccesses, therefore, we have no time to make empty noises.
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Comment number 19.
At 20:31 30th Oct 2010, odomeokollie wrote:[Personal details removed by Moderator]Forgot one thing, i would like to debate this topic live.
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Comment number 20.
At 23:28 30th Oct 2010, Benjamin Addai Antwi-Boasiako wrote:From the outset, I knew Africa would not benefit much from President Obama's Presidency. He runs the risk of being accused of divided loyalty if he focuses on Africa like say President Bush or Clinton did. That same reason informed his decision to visit Ghana instead of Kenya (where his father came from). Given President Obama's liberal stance on Homosexuality and Abortion, is it not surprising that he enjoyed support from Africans (many of whom hold contrary view to the President's)? The idea of an African American becoming the President of the US thrilled many Africans, who followed him without questioning his philosophies and ideas. I guess some of us now know his 'true colours' and the love is waning.
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Comment number 21.
At 15:00 31st Oct 2010, caesarbbc wrote:Obama will always find love in Africa. His ascending to the presidency inspired people all over the world that people can look at for the content of someones character rather than their skin color to judge their suitability. The big Hurdle for Obama will be his tough love for Africa. When the Chinese are building roads and hospitals in broad day light. Obama is ashamed of showing love. He is just giving speeches of tough love. 4 years is not a long time, If he continues with the same trend he will be out of presidency and he would have nothing tangible to show that he did for Africa. A small project like building state of Art university and Hospital in Kogelo would be a starting point. I believe there would be many volunteers.
In Africa doing the big things matter but also doing the small things matter too.
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Comment number 22.
At 15:09 31st Oct 2010, GEORGE KOUDAKPO wrote:Right now I don't think Africain are still in love with the President again, even the youngs Americain are now worry I hope thing turn around so that Mr. Obama will be come again the golden boy !!!!!!
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Comment number 23.
At 19:14 31st Oct 2010, BluesBerry wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 24.
At 19:22 31st Oct 2010, BluesBerry wrote:If they are, I don’t know why?
Paul Volcker is reason enough.
In developing countries, the Volcker WHAM was like a giant canon. It sent developing countries into spasm. Soaring interest rates = higher interest payments; often the higher payments could only be met by taking out more loans. Many African countries found themselves in terrible shape: e.g. Nigeria's debt went from $9 billion to $29 billion.
Then there’s Larry Summers 15 years earlier he gained infamy as an advocate of African genocide & environmental racism. He actually signed a World Bank memo: "I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest-wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that...I've always thought that underpopulated countries in Africa are vastly under-polluted..."
The joy that millions of Africans felt on November 5 should have become mitigated as Obama filled his Whitehouse, surrounding himself, with rather dubious characters.
So what exactly has Obama done for Africa?
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Comment number 25.
At 19:24 31st Oct 2010, kabenge swaleh wrote:As the former South African president Nelson Mandela once remarked “it’s not African tradition to desert your friend when he is in trouble but to run to his support.
Popularity like popular things are not important what matters most is that important policies are being attended to and upheld. More importantly, when President Obama’s economic policies succeed, popularity / fame will come with it. What is happening now in Obama’s low popularity is societies talk and it’s natural. He is still popular in my view being the first ever African American president.
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Comment number 26.
At 19:42 31st Oct 2010, Kolawole Ajao wrote:Obama--the Socrates, Plato and Aristotle of the new generation; and the Cicero of the new order. After Cicero, the world hasn't got another orator close to Obama in worth.
This guy is a brain you can't even equate with those of whom we call geniuses. I believe he can still make it to another presidential term. And Africans still love him.
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Comment number 27.
At 20:05 31st Oct 2010, Patrick McKerrow wrote:Obama inherited a huge mess from George W Bush. Obama then faced the worst financial crises effecting most world economies. On this basis he has performed profoundly well and our support for him is undiminished. This, however will not stop some in the USA who from the outset did not want him to win and will do whatever it takes to try and get him out of office.
Patrick McKerrow
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Comment number 28.
At 20:39 31st Oct 2010, Qamhat wrote:Is Africa still in love with Obama? As an African I find this headline a bit demeaning. We do have cerebrums. Emotions are not unknown to us but surely the vast majority of Africans can use their minds to appraise, however critically, President Barack Hussein Obama.
One thing is for certain, many of us have been standing here from rickety seats in the stadium, open mouthed in awe, that a politician of African ancestry could be voted by an overwhelming majority to become the leader of the most powerful nation in the world. - We are in awe of the fact an African American would come to clean up the bloody mess left by the last administration. The station of our beloved Janitor In Chief Obama is now under siege. It would appear that the ever-entitled "conservatives" have become increasingly emboldened. They've yet to be made accountable for their crimes- and obsessional depravities and like feral dogs have begin to howl and bark with disingenuous fury. They'll chase that black man from the janitor's office before he plays his cards- given that all black men are to be untrusted and given to trickery naturally. They've already chased him down with lynch mobs and tarred and feathered him. Now they're getting ready to lynch him. Heaven forbid he actually acts as a necessary catalyst for cultural change in the USA. All of Africa is watching the same stilted power plays where the honourable black leader is slandered and harangued by a power elite of white men who've been exposed as liars and cheats. Obama -will he escape the scoundrels one more time? Stay tuned because it will be thrilling regardless of outcome.
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Comment number 29.
At 21:59 31st Oct 2010, Kolawole Ajao wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 30.
At 22:00 31st Oct 2010, Kolawole Ajao wrote:[Personal details removed by Moderator]Barack Obama--the Socrates, Plato and Aristotle of the new generation. And the Cicero of the new order. After Cicero, has there been another mighty orator as Obama? I doubt that!
Well, Africans still love him and they still want him to make it a second time.
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Comment number 31.
At 02:34 1st Nov 2010, naturelle11 wrote:President Barack Obama inherited a country that was already bankrupted. He knew it but it seems that the disaster passed his expectations.
Furthermore, he is the first president who is expected to justify each move he is making it is just too much. Trying to do the right thing in a deep recession is a very difficult job especially with a population who is not used and not ready to change his habits and still does not understand that the financial crisis is a world issue.
Yes, the africans support him and keep on praying for him. At the same time, they know that he will not be shy telling them the truth as it is. This is very good and the timing is perfect for this continent.
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Comment number 32.
At 09:24 1st Nov 2010, Ndegwa wrote:I have absolutely no problem with President Obama. In fact, I like him just as much as prior to his election but I am concerned that his rating is on the decline. I however take heart as there seems to be a trend in the US where the incumbent's party loses mid term elections. I only hope this will not affect Obama's bid to retain the seat come 2012.
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Comment number 33.
At 09:26 1st Nov 2010, Ndegwa wrote:Complain about this comment (Comment number 33)
Comment number 34.
At 13:26 1st Nov 2010, kobina9 wrote:Obama has so many issues to tackle at home,remember he as no choice than to follow what americans need and not african interest so he popularity in africa is nothing good to write about it.
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Comment number 35.
At 14:04 1st Nov 2010, Cyrus Ijomor wrote:It is reassuring to see the works of President Obama in just two years in office. I wonder how shortlived it has been in the minds of people, the pain and hoplessness caused by the past administration. One also wonder why people do not see the gradual progress the economy is now making out of these hopelessness. Africa would ever be proud of this gentleman and president that she offered this great nation. I do pray that given the odds of the power play in politics, that he would continue to be president for another term to completely right the wrongs of the previous administration. Africa and the rest of the would should be proud of an intelligent, charismatic and purposeful leader in the person of Barack Obama. I admire his courage in these very trying times and his resolution to gradually bring this nation out from the pit beneath.
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Comment number 36.
At 15:41 1st Nov 2010, eLLEVYO wrote:Q:Is Africa still in love with Obama?
Ans: No; actually few afro-centrist were enthusiastic about and unreasonably choose to support the first black president of the USA.
This was an emotional reaction on a rather strategic event. The president of the America, like any other president is primarily put in place to defend their national interests. These are in most instances against our(African) interests.History is there to support my point.
I was happy to see Obama elected in the oval office, because I knew he will take America to the far left and will definitely weaken the USA global positioning in all aspects( military, economically, and diplomatically).
Africa, like all so called third world countries will benefit from a weaken hyper empire which is the US and its Western Europeans allies. So I will be very fortunate to see the leftists once again taking control of both congress and senate in the upcoming mid-term elections, and coming 2012, the white house.
ELLEVYO
Kigali Rwanda
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Comment number 37.
At 16:42 1st Nov 2010, Titoscudd wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 38.
At 17:32 1st Nov 2010, tejan koroma wrote:as i earlier said on OBAMA'S visit to Ghana, i for one do not admire/like him and i keep saying this to my friends who thought he was an 'ARICAN ANGEL' He could not live up to the expectations of AMERICANS least to talk of AFRICANS. am quite sure lots of people could be bowing their heads in shame as bbc reported that opinion pool has placed him in less than 40% wht ar shame for AFRICANS.
Notwithstanding, i am a true AFRICAN but i dont think AFRICANS will continue ti hail him as b4.
all the same, in two days time i shall be vindicated
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Comment number 39.
At 18:51 1st Nov 2010, Titoscudd wrote:Let me begin first by stating that as an African, I have nothing but the utmost respect for Mr. Obama, what he represents, his discipline, focus and determination that took years to cultivate the likes of which I may never muster. I am simply honoured, inspired, proud and awe struck by his talents and achievements at such a relatively young age.
That being said, I also believe that Mr. Obama has treated Africa with nothing but absolute contempt. During his first visit to the continent, seeing himself as above the "corrupt" African leaders, he cherry picked those with whom he would identify and shunned all others. That would've been all well and good, but, this holier-than-thou individual had no problem genuflecting to the King of Saudi Arabia, holding hands with Hosni Mubarak and meeting with any and EVERY Arab leader on the planet.
Yes, Africa has her faults. Yes, we aren't perfect. But, in terms of Democracy and opportunity for women i.e. education, government appointments, etc Africa is light years ahead of the Arabs. Even if our elections are flawed, but, so are the US' elections as was set in stark relief in 2001. Even if we have corruption, but, so does the US and particularly the African American community as Kwame Kilpatric, Charles Wrangle, Maxine Waters, etc have all shown. Is he not currently acting to protect Charles Wrangles' legacy despite the allegations against him?Are Arab leaders accountable to anyone? When was the last time any of their accounts were audited? Was the Saudi government, along with the govt. of Margaret Thatcher not central players in the Al Yamamah contract's mutli-billion dollar kick-back scheme?
To further emphasize his disdain and utter contempt for Africa, when several African countries were celebrating 50 years of independence, Obama wouldn't meet with a single one. Instead, he chose to insult our elders by preferring to meet with the youth. Yes. We do recognize that our elders are imperfect, but, they are our fathers. They are our parents and their flaws not withstanding, they are all we have. Why must he lend himself and his stature to the further debasement of all that Africans hold dear? While we are PRIMARILY responsible for our choices and destiny, would he claim total ignorance of the machinations of Western nations in undermining Africa? Would he DARE shun Arab or Asian leaders the way he has shunned our fathers and our leaders? Are Arabs and Asians (or even Europeans) totally free of all corruption and negatives?
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Comment number 40.
At 07:25 2nd Nov 2010, Pesh Gakuru wrote:The election of B.O is historic. I am particulary happy that an African American was elected to lead that great country that is so admired worldwide. It also feels good that he has Kenyan roots but i understand that his priority will always be the American people. I have never expected him to dish out anything to us Kenyans and will never have a grudge if he never does. I think he is fairly doing well in his half term in office and been the bright guy he is, he will surely use the approval rate to revise his goals accordingly. Wish him a landslide win in his second term run for office!
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Comment number 41.
At 07:51 2nd Nov 2010, Thabileng wrote:Having at some point in my life worked with Politicians, i did expect that Obama was just like any other politician who use political rhetoric and set high expectations during campaigning and the moment they come into office they become "neutralised". They suddendly realise that there are more powerful forces and individuals whom their interests have to be protected at the expense of the poor and the vulnerable. This has been clearly indicated in during Obama's tenure thus far, he has spent millions if not billions saving insurance groups and banks and little to save the millions of Americans who have lost their jobs. And If Obama could not protect Americans after the recessions why should he bother with Africa? Africa is simply another headache to the rest of the world and Obama at this point in time could not afford to focus on a Continent that needs to be "baby-sitted" by every U.S President. So the instead of the question being is Africa still in love with Obama? It should instead be Is Africa still relevant in US Foreign Policy outside of strategic military issues?
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Comment number 42.
At 08:35 2nd Nov 2010, fatmed wrote:I LISTENED TO A KENYAN ON BBC RADIO MAKE THE COMMENT THAT HE IS LOSING FAITH IN OBAMA.HIS FRUSTRATIONS INCLUDE THAT OBAMA HAS NOT VISITED HIS HOMELAND SINCE HE BECAME PRESIDENT.
SOMETIMES I HAVE STRUGGLED WITH MY OWN DOUBTS ABOUT HIM WITH REFERENCE TO HIS COMMITMENT TO AFRICA. I DO BELIEVE THAT HE IS COMMITTED TO NOT ONLY HIS ENORMOUS TASKS IN THE U.S.BUT ALSO TO SOLVING PROBLEMS WORLDWIDE.HE IS A GIFTED SPEAKER AND TALENTED LEADER.HE NEEDS PEOPLE WITH WHOM HE CAN COLABORATE TO SOLVE PROBLEMS.MY OBSERVATION OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS,HAS LEAD ME TO BELIEVE THAT DESPITE HIS EFFORTS TO ENGAGE THE OPPOSITION,HE HAS NOT BEEN ACCEPTED AS A GENUINE PARTNER.
THERE HAS BEEN SOME MISTEPS ON HIS PART. BUT THIS IS THE REALITY OF POLITICS.WE SHOULD TRUST THAT AFTER THIS MIDTERM ELECTIONS,HE WILL COME OUT STRONGER AND BETTER EQUIPED TO HANDLE THE OPPOSITION.HE WILL COMMUNICATE HIS SUCCESSES TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE BETTER.
AFRICANS GOT TO BE PATIENT.HE HAS TO CONSOLIDATE HIS SUCCESSES AT HOME.HE HAS PROPOSED A BRILLIANT IDEA OF STRUCTING U S AID TO THE DEVELOPING WORLD.GIVE HIM TIME,I BELIEVE HE HAS SOME GOOD THINGS IN STORE FOR THE AFRICAN CONTINENT.
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Comment number 43.
At 12:21 2nd Nov 2010, Simon wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 44.
At 14:46 2nd Nov 2010, Steven wrote:[Personal details removed by Moderator]Well I think Pres. Obama has disappointed the entire African People. The Arabic world called him the puppet of the white and it appears to be true. Most other American Presidents, like the likes of Bill Clinton, George Bush and co. all demonstrated their love and affections for Africans, but when it comes to our own brother, the story line changed. He decided to talk to the Africans from a distance, choosing instead to speak to an entire continent from Ghana, and ever since then he never return for an African tour, like his predecessors did. This is his two whole years in office....BBC IS THAT FAIR ENOUGH? Now, coming to the Americans. He went ahead of all people to promise so much and when everybody feels free and relaxed waiting for the change and promises, the story line changed again, we were all told that we have to wait may be till 3000 yrs. The fact remains that no matter what he is still one of us, and he is always welcome home anytime and any day, but that will not stop many of us from chastising him when he made a mistake...even if he is the founding father of Africa. I will love to part of you discussion and here is my contact phone
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Comment number 45.
At 15:31 2nd Nov 2010, Titoscudd wrote:Frankly speaking, Obama isn't obligated to Africa or any African country for that matter. He was elected to the office of President of the USA. Africans, including yours truly, have been raised on a diet of dependence on Western pitances and largess as such, we have come to expect a regular bursary of alms. Does any American care who assumes the presidency of any African country except as it impacts their national interests and the extent to which they will toe the line defined by these interests?
When Africans begin to develop their own agenda for the world and plan, organize, strategize and use the resources at their disposal to insist that others support this strategic vision is the day people like Obama will begin to afford us a modicum of respect. And we wouldn't have to care about what he thinks of us he will be more concerned about what we think of him.
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Comment number 46.
At 16:01 2nd Nov 2010, Boboye wrote:Yes he will always be loved and respected as one who dears to try the impossible and makes people believe that everything is possible, including a Black man sitting in a white house.
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Comment number 47.
At 16:49 2nd Nov 2010, Daniel wrote:This President of Unite states of America,from my intimation,he has very big job to complete and this economic depression and war in terror he has inherited from his predecessor,so alot of loose in money from America is not Obama mistake,the all situation he cannot solve and bring miracle for American & African.cause America loose a lot of money for war in Irak & Afghanistan the only things he can do is to avert in his term of presidency and to work for a real politic,not exclusivly for interest of America.Obama is man of peace the world will remember as man whom disperatly searching the peace among the Nation.America will be a nation with a great value of peace for intire the world,that's what is doing Mr.Obama.Good job and GOD BLESS HIM.DANIEL
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Comment number 48.
At 16:52 2nd Nov 2010, Frantz Elijah Affana wrote:African should just remember that President Obama is the president of the United States of America. So they should not cultivate hope as if he is a kind of first good African president in and African country. We are all aware of the situations he is constantly facing in his administration in the US. Do you think you have to bother him with yur love problems.
If you guys love him that much, educate yourself and make a change in Africa.
An African made in abroad ... and African sure can make it home.
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Comment number 49.
At 16:58 2nd Nov 2010, Nwoye Igweagu wrote:Obama’s popularity to / in Africa and the whole black race is like an archeological object being that the more years it aquire is the more value it will have.
Even if the American don’t appreciate his views today , tomorrow they will search for it and may not find it again.
That wonder-boy made a history that always gladdens the heart to remember and his view / contributions to development of humanity are heavenly.
Even Christ was crusified for telling us what we are now longing to know today.
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Comment number 50.
At 18:32 2nd Nov 2010, tobias_njoku wrote:Well i personally did not like obama as a person because i think he is not the right person to be first America black president and you can see that he is not doing well that is what i think and i know that he is not going to get second chance which is bad for the black race .
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Comment number 51.
At 20:41 2nd Nov 2010, Mutumba wrote:Obama first visited Africa when he was vying for a Senate post am sure he was 35+ by then.
He has had a difficult time as President. Ofcourse some people say that he enherited a ruined state, yes indeed he knew this and promised to turn it all round. And its for this reason that American elected him. But he is not doing that!!! Some people think two years is still a short period, indeed, but he said " Yes we can", you remember!!!
I differ with those who thought he would pay alot of attention to Africa. No that wont happen. But our pride in him as Africans is his performance as President of the US..NOT , visits and donations.
We as his brothers will be happier if he performs well and put it on record that the first African - American President achieved A,B,C etc. fulfill his campaign promises.
So we Obama is an African, let him do his work as an American and we shall all celebrate his success whatsoever.
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Comment number 52.
At 20:52 2nd Nov 2010, jawikondiek wrote:Is Africa still in love with Obama? The answer is a resounding yes because for the sake of pride, many Africans always prefer identifying with one of their own at the helm and Obama by virtue of his African roots; is 'one of our own'. Here in Kenya, i still see his 'Yes we can' campaign slogan everywhere. With the kind of negative publicity his American haters are trying to popularize, it will be a further inspiration to many Africans if his Democrats win the congress majority and possibly propel him to a second term in office.
Nevertheless, his only contribution to Africa so far is when he made the harmless warning during his inauguration that African leaders who impoverish their people through corruption and poor governance live on the wrong side of history. I had previously thought that there was something Obama could do using the might of America to compel African governments to be accountable to their people. But unfortunately I smell nothing at all. I had also thought that Obama, by virtue of his African roots would understand Africa better than his predecessors to strengthen the relationship between our continent and the US but unfortunately he appears even greener than them.
The net result has been China making inroads to virtually all corners of the continent since the Chinese have dedicated time to understand who we are. I also see the war on corruption taking shape in Kenya after passing of the new constitution. This is a lesson that Africa's progress lies on developing home-grown institutional framework and not wishful remarks imported from abroad. We wish him all the best as he governs the world's most powerful country amidst haters and here in Kenya, we will be ready to dance one again that one of our own is the president of America.
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Comment number 53.
At 21:05 2nd Nov 2010, Berinde wrote:No doubt Obama is inspirational to the marginalised for his political acumen, but equally admirable is America where modern values stood out by transcending petty racial stereotypes that still abound among supremacist rightists. So, like modern Americans, I do not support Obama because of being black, as his policies may not even necessarily be more in support of Africa, but more of what he represents: The marginalised Americans without health care yet in a superpower; the aspirations of the American destitute and hope-less along-side the corporate mighty and opulent; the friendly Americans versus the all-knowing-might-determines-right. Unfortunately, the side he represents has remained weak, hence manipulated by the wealthy to defeat. But never the ideals.
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Comment number 54.
At 21:59 2nd Nov 2010, polo wrote:First of all what makes Obama black??? As far as I am concerned his farther is black and his mother is white. Therefore, he is of mixed race or a mulatto. Why call him black and not white? This is the racisms or lies that should be corrected.
Has he done anything special for Africa? Absolutely not! He is (as his predecessors did) protecting American interests in Africa. Only if he could open the market for African agricultural products will he start helping. But I guess he does not really have the power to do this.
However I encourage Africans to pull up our socks and stop looking for help. As long as we expect help we shall always be puppets. Thats a principle of life. If you are in a responsible position and you continue behaving badly.. then you are the one to blame.
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Comment number 55.
At 01:27 3rd Nov 2010, AfricanMapalo wrote:who cares whether African's like Obama or not??? Which African country does he head? I've never been a fan, but regardless, the issue isn't whether we like him but whether the americans like him
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Comment number 56.
At 12:26 3rd Nov 2010, Unclemash wrote:[Personal details removed by Moderator]Barack Obama is a living legend. Just two years into his term America is the only country that has signed into Law a provision requiring more transparency in African mineral mining sector. The Law requires American companies sourcing Coltan from the DRC Congo and its neighbouring countries to prove that their mineral exports are conflict free. The new practice will pressure African coltan- exporting countries to clean up their mining practices on their own without relying on harsher external policies. This will limit corruption, violence and other conflicts fought over coltan and other resources. Once the companies agree to cooperate, it’s easier to make a point rather than trying to boycott these raw materials.
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Comment number 57.
At 13:45 3rd Nov 2010, Bahiirwa Paddy wrote:President Barrack Obama is a US citizen, and the president of the United States chosen by America in a free and fair elections. I am disappointed that fellow Africans and blacks look at him as the president of Africa. He is not. He descended on the presidency with a mission first and for most for those who elected him, and he is not like your African chief who mix state issues with family and clan matters. I am proud of Obama as an achiever and a role model for our children and the benefits of a black president may not necessarily come in our generation. Our children will build on what he has started - breaking barriers. Regards.
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Comment number 58.
At 08:40 4th Nov 2010, julian mujuni mulokozi wrote:Sir Barack Obama has been a great gift to the world ideally,functionally,socially,not to forget economically.there maybe people who cant see or let say don't like what he is doing inside the great rainbow nation of America but in the republic of Tanzania there has never been peacefully freedom of press ever before like in this time election,this is a great assimilation in Dar-es-salaam just like London and New York, Americans should realize that criticizing or blocking new policies that benefits their country just because Sir Obama is governing them movements is not helping the nation,this is the toughest moment that whomever is on that chair needs support from his or her people, put in a dustbin racial ideology sir Obama is doing fine,just like Clinton Did or even more because in Clinton's time there was no financial crisis.
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Comment number 59.
At 02:30 5th Nov 2010, male wrote:yeah! But still measuring his foot steps on Africans major problems.
how is he putting down fire burning forest in Africa like Sudan, Uganda , Sudan, Congo and DRC problem which all originated from Uganda and fed by Sudan and is going to cause continental fire.
By 2015 this point will get more helping hands from the evil world and no body will stop again.
Is a growing child.
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Comment number 60.
At 12:34 5th Nov 2010, Kingsley Ezenekwe wrote:The problem is that most Africans could not differentiate our joy at an African living the ultimate American dream and BH Obama's presidency. Everyone then was quite happy that a "Kenyan" suddenly is on his way to The White House. There was little discussion about what this has got to do with or for Africa.
The truth is that Obama is America's president and has his work cut out for him, which is simply to do what is in America's and American's interest. Every other thing, including the interest of Africans is secondary and will be treated as it affects America's foreign policies.
Is he still popular in Africa? Depends on who is answering. The young and dreamers still find inspiration in his success at he highest level. For policy makers, he will be another American president to be engaged with. If you ask me, he's got so much on his plate and his legacy for Africa had better be judged after his Presidency. His biggest legacy for Africa should be to speak frankly as one black man to another to African leaders and get them to start thinking of positively improving their countries rather than hanker after aids and hand-outs. Tough job? Surely.
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Comment number 61.
At 13:05 5th Nov 2010, clarence nah wrote:MOST DEFINATELY! AFRICA IS STILL FALLING HEAD OVER HEALS FOR U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK H. OBAMA. BESIDES, WE HERE IN AFRICA NEED A HONORABLE MAN LIKE BARACK TO HELP US MOVE THE CONTINENT FOWARD. THE PROBLEMS WITH SOME AFRICANS IS THAT THEY ARE SO USE TO HAND OUTS-THEY WANT YOU TO ALWAYS DO FOR THEM BUT NEVER WANT TO DO FOR YOU IN RETURN. SO WHATS UP WITH THAT? MADDNWSS IF YOU ASK ME. WE ALSO FAIL TO UNDERSTAND THAT BARACK HAS TO DEAL WITH HIS DOMESTIC ISSUES NOT OURS.
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Comment number 62.
At 21:34 5th Nov 2010, TUMBUKA MAN wrote:i dont understand why africa luvs oboma.am an africa but this issue of sayn obama's father came from africa therefore obama is african will cost us alot of things why is it that our friends the british dont talk about him much the american we jst use obamaz influence to steal our resources it was amizing how our brothers and sister in ghana panicked when he went there every strt was swept clean am sure there must have bn agood business for the car washz am sure every one was told to bath on that day coz obama was comn we rearly see all this when an afrcan head of state is visiting african heads of states are not given oppotunity to adress parliaments in other countries let alone not even capital house.the truth cld b that after ghana had announced the dscovery of oil ghana became an apple of the eye to the americans hence da visit by prez oboma
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Comment number 63.
At 06:10 6th Nov 2010, Oliver Muchenje Mtyambizi wrote:Obama a wolf in a sheep's clothes.He had better campaigning strategies,but that never made him a better leader.If history is anything to go about,whats the notable thing he has done during his term except for overzealous nobel piece committee awarding him an undeserving recognition.For Africa we never expected him to do anything and all we thought was he wasnt going to interfere with our sovereign states.Africa do not need aid,but only fare trade.What changes is the face and not the foreign policies when comes to the west leaders.In my country zimbabwe,he became even worse than his predecessor by unsuccesfully trying to ban the export of our porecious stone.What a hypocrity.In Africa we only thought since he had african blood,he was gona be fare to his origins.I always felt he was gona be a flop and he knows judging from his statements after the recent defeat in the recent elections in his country.His rubber stamping of bush's foreign policies is sickening hypocricy
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Comment number 64.
At 16:43 7th Nov 2010, Yegi lado wrote:In fact, Africans will continue to love and remain proud with President Obama as the first black American President. We African do understand that president Obama came in the office in very difficult time, a time where American economy is in turmoil with unemployment going up faster and as leader he has to deal with those internal issues first before heading to foreign policy. We also understand that he is doing the best he could to fix the American economy, but his mission is not successful not because his ideas were wrong but because forks who have money is fighting so hard to make American citizen to see this president fail and is taking the country in a wrong direction. If this question was thrown to find out how we African feel about president Obama, we are still proud of him and we know he don’t forget his foreign policy and beside president is dealing with issues according to the way his administration prioritize them.
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Comment number 65.
At 08:15 9th Nov 2010, Shakespear4u wrote:Barrack Obama has lost the love of Africans. Becos he is not doing anything for Africa.
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Comment number 66.
At 09:40 9th Nov 2010, Alfred_marshal wrote:The name Obama has become a sort of oracle in the world, i guess because of the American enigma. Africa is made up of Africans, and i must state it categorically and authoritatively that We and especially yours truly, still love OBAMA,true love is shown when you can encourage someone who is at the edge of failure, remember a word of encouragement during a failure is worth more than a whole book of praise after success. This is no other time for us to back OBAMA than now, We can re-strategize, we can go back to the discussion table and identify those mistakes, those flaws, so as to make right. To whom much is given, much is expected, and so, expectations were very high from the man OBAMA,my friends it is not easy to lead, any leader in position of authority is faced with all sorts of challenges. We do not see the internal power play of politics in the congress, the parliament and other legislative houses. I read OBAMAS speech in Ghana and he said that "WE MUST START FROM THE SIMPLE PREMISE THAT AFRICA'S FUTURE IS UP TO AFRICANS" and i was inspired to ensure that i contribute my own quota to the sustainable development of my country in particular and Africa.No doubt President Obama and his team must have made certain mistakes as regards the different policies that were initiated in the United States but i still believe that Mr. President means well for America,,,,,,,,,AFRICA will forever be proud of a man who regardless of the different challenges he encountered still had the audacity of hope to continue, to continue to live up to the American dream. Mr. President you are welcome home any time any day
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Comment number 67.
At 15:07 11th Nov 2010, helk wrote:Africans love Obama but Obama seem not to have any interest or love for Africa, and I strongly believe this will hunt him in his later days of life.
He`s giving the best of his life for Americans interest.
Abandoning the root of his existence in time when they badly need his help. He think he can do the undo, noway,
and the americans will soon detest you so badly then you will realize africa is your heaven.
Don`t even think of it, nothing you can give americans to be satisfy with you, not even the whole of muslem world.
stop waiting your time instead help Africa to get a better democracy.Persuade all those who have been long in power to resign and make way for better democracy.
society.
Thats all Africans are asking for.
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Comment number 68.
At 17:59 19th Nov 2010, Augustino Mayom Makuok wrote:question one 1- Is Africa still in love with Barack Obama?
Yes, Africa is and will continue to praise Mr.President for his tireless job that he want mankind to live in a peaceful way side by side starting from Middle East to Africa and Asia, Mr.President want the people of the world to live without Nuclear weapon so that every living things can enjoy the life.
question two 2 - How do you think he is faring as America's first black president?
In my point of view, when I retrospect to the speech of Martin Luther King, Jr. then I realized that the King's dream came into reality.
question 3 three- Do you care where his approval rates are up or down and why?
I think Mr. President and his cabinets are very active because, when came into the office they get three things were superimposed, war on terror, falling of economy, and prevailing of peace, and as you can see, these three things are not easy to solve at once lap.
so if you are not strong leader and facing these three things, then you will fall.
in my opinion Mr.president is like one who want to save three drowning persons, everyone want to take breath first and all are hung on his shoulder, so the weight is heavy for himself to lift at the same moment, this need helps from different countries or continent like Africa to encourage him and keep going with his vision, that's in term of rates whether up or down, we need to give mr.President a time to take these three drowning persons out, these are war on terror, to stable economy and prevailing the peace.
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Comment number 69.
At 16:23 25th Nov 2010, Dave wrote:Africa may like Obama, but America does not.
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Comment number 70.
At 13:31 30th Nov 2010, Piouscity wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 71.
At 14:42 30th Nov 2010, Piouscity wrote:l would rather attempt projecting how l see President Obama. President Obama is a great individual who, in spite of all odds, became who he is because of unwavering self-believe couple with his environment (America + Wife). Now, do l like him? BIG YES! Because, just like Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, etc., without a doubt, he has become an inspiring tower and a beacon of light to the 'classless' and the non-elitist of all races. Adding, to answer the question of how l see him, this question comes to mind. Is President Obama trying to do what he said he'll do? Absolutely yes indeed! However, the global crisis couple with people with parochial interest may reduce or even derail his highly but EARNEST agenda intended for America and the world at large. In conclusion, the history of our times will only be kind to those who die trying to fix our societies rather those who line the pockets of few individuals in the name of government. Shalom
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