CONFIDENCES OF A YOUNG DREAMER

Today I'm a young woman of 16.

I've seen a lot, but some people will tell me it's not enough;

I've lived through a lot, but others will tell me it's nothing.

And since I'll always be innocent in their eyes, I dream and imagine:

I dream, for me, for my beloved Africa.

I dream of a strong and united Africa.

I dream of an Africa whose children work for it and not for other continents.

That might sound selfish, because at heart we are human beings who are free to choose.

But I think it's unfair that some countries develop at the expense of others.

So I keep dreaming...

I don't want an Africa with wars, genocides or international clashes.

Instead, I dream of an Africa full of joy, happiness, freedom and, above all, respect for human rights.

I dream of seeing tolerance, courage and determination among my African brothers and sisters.

I dream of seeing this magnificent continent of stunning beauty and breathtaking landscapes receive the recognition it truly deserves.

Finally, I dream of seeing intelligent, strong, funny men and women conquer the world, because I'm sure they're all capable of it.

This is a dream full of hope:

I know I've only got one dream at the moment, but it's already coming true.

And I know that it will continue to come true because all these lions and lionesses will fight to make it so.

Tomorrow I'll be able to say that my dream has come true...

Khadidjatou KELLY

Dakar, Thursday April 20, 2023