"When I assumed office almost four years ago, I spoke of the need for Africa to fight the negative image it has erroneously earned as a continent impermeable to change and a place where conflicts and suffering are endemic. I also spoke of the need for Africa to re-seize the initiative, to stand and fight for what is right and what it believes in. To do so, however, I saw need for Africa to begin on the task of addressing those specific problems and obstacles which stand in the way. For, in order for Africa to stand up, and be heard, it must restore its credibility as a continent which is capable of acting and to act effectively in its own interest. No where has the credibility of our Continent suffered greater damage and been called into question more than in the area of conflicts." - Dr. Salim, June 21, 1993
