Renowned Kenyan lawyer and activist Prof. Patrick Lumumba has criticized the current wave of African talent emigration, likening it to modern-day slavery. Lumumba, speaking at an Independence Day event in Lagos, emphasized the indirect exploitation of Africa, urging the continent to redefine itself in the face of the mass exodus of professionals to Europe and America.
He highlighted the irony that, despite the end of colonial rule, Africa is still referred to in terms of former colonizers.
Lumumba raised concerns about the ongoing departure of African talents, labeling it a form of contemporary slavery.
He pointed out the historical context, noting that Africa played a significant role in enabling the first industrial revolution when ancestors were taken to work on European farms.
Lumumba stressed that, presently, Africa is contributing to the fourth and fifth industrial revolutions, evident in the issuance of talent visas taking away nurses, IT experts, and engineers.
Lumumba’s critique extended to the actions of some African leaders, expressing dismay at contracts signed to send workers abroad. He referred to such agreements as endorsing modern-day slavery.
The lawyer called for a reevaluation of Africa’s role and the impact of talent migration, urging a collective effort to prevent the exploitation of African professionals.
