By Patrick Olumide Campbell, Esq*
Across the globe, a growing chorus is urging nations to take responsibility for their internal challenges. The phrase “fix your country” has evolved from a political slogan into a serious policy sentiment, reflecting mounting frustration over governance failures, economic instability, and the persistent wave of migration. For many African states, this call is no longer rhetorical, it is urgent and unavoidable.
The Global Shift Toward Self-Reliance
The modern articulation of “fix your country” gained prominence during the administration of Donald Trump in the United States. His “America First” doctrine emphasized domestic priorities over international obligations, reinforcing the belief that each nation must address its own socio-economic and political challenges. This approach, encapsulated in the slogan “Make America Great Again,” signaled a reduced willingness by major powers to shoulder global burdens.
Although this policy direction was partially disrupted by the global outbreak of COVID-19, its underlying philosophy has endured. It has influenced global discourse on migration, sovereignty, and economic responsibility, prompting countries particularly in África to confront their internal deficiencies more directly.
Migration, Xenophobia, and Regional Tensions
Africa today is witnessing a troubling rise in xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiment. Countries such as South Africa, Ghana, and Nigeria have experienced episodes of hostility toward foreign nationals, often justified by concerns over crime, unemployment, and economic competition.
In South Africa, for instance, tensions have frequently escalated into calls for the expulsion of foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians. While some concerns relate to illicit activities involving a minority, such narratives risk overshadowing the significant economic contributions and cultural integration of many migrants. The situation highlights a dangerous trend: the generalization of isolated issues into broad-based hostility that undermines regional cooperation.
Similarly, in Guinea, authorities have deported large numbers of undocumented migrants, including Sierra Leoneans, citing irregular residency and unlawful activities. In Accra, public demonstrations have also called for stricter immigration enforcement and deportations.
These developments reflect a broader continental challenge balancing national sovereignty with regional integration, while avoiding policies that may violate human rights or international law.
Europe and the Complexity of Migration Policy
The migration challenge is not unique to Africa. European nations continue to grapple with similar pressures, adopting varying strategies to manage inflows. Notably, Spain has introduced policies to regularize the status of hundreds of thousands of migrants, a move that has drawn both support and criticism within Europe.
Such contrasting approaches illustrate the complexity of migration governance. While some states adopt restrictive measures, others pursue integration strategies, reflecting differing economic needs and political priorities.
International Support and Persistent Gaps
Global institutions including the United Nations, European Union, African Union, and World Bank have invested heavily in Africa’s development. Their initiatives target poverty reduction, governance reform, infrastructure development, and economic growth.
Yet, despite these efforts, fundamental challenges persist. Weak institutions, corruption, inadequate healthcare and education systems, unemployment, and political instability continue to drive outward migration. For many Africans, migration is not a choice but a necessity—a search for dignity, security, and opportunity.
Leadership Deficits and Structural Challenges
At the heart of these issues lies a critical leadership deficit. While African governments have made efforts to address socio-economic challenges, progress has often been undermined by poor policy implementation, excessive government spending, and political patronage.
The failure to adhere to fiscal discipline captured in the adage “cut your coat according to your size” has strained national economies. Resources that could be invested in development are frequently diverted toward maintaining political structures and satisfying elite interests.
Moreover, the increasing tendency of states to expel foreign nationals raises serious legal and ethical concerns. Forced removals, particularly when carried out without due process, risk violating international legal standards and human rights obligations.
A Call for Responsible Governance
The call to “fix your country” must not be interpreted as isolationism or hostility toward foreigners. Rather, it should serve as a catalyst for internal reform. African leaders must prioritize:
- Economic diversification and job creation
- Investment in education and healthcare
- Infrastructure development
- Transparent and accountable governance
- Fair and sustainable wage systems
Equally important is the role of citizens. Nation-building is a collective responsibility, requiring active civic engagement, accountability, and a shared commitment to progress.
Conclusion: The Urgency of Now
Fixing a nation is neither quick nor easy. It demands long-term vision, political will, and societal cooperation. However, the cost of inaction is far greater. A country that fails to address its internal challenges risks becoming unlivable for its own people, fueling further migration and instability.
Africans are deeply connected to their homelands. The desire to leave is often driven not by lack of patriotism, but by unmet expectations. Addressing these expectations is the responsibility of leadership.
The message is clear:
Fix the economy. Fix the roads. Fix housing, Fix healthcare. Fix education. Fix governance.
Only then can nations foster sustainable development, retain their citizens, and reclaim their place in a competitive global order.
As Sierra Leone marks another milestone in its national journey, this call resonates even more strongly not just as a critique, but as a roadmap for renewal of good governance @ 65
*Patrick Olumide Campbell, ESQ is Chief Administrator . Chairman and Legal Adviser Sierra Leone Life Saving Society and Country Director Sierra Leone Institute of International Law, Peace and Security. He can be reached at 002327638110
Thanks for this piece. Is there a Sierra Leone Chapter for developing these thoughts?