This archive report was first published on 11 January 2020.
January 11, 2020, marked the beginning of a new decade, but it also brought with it a sense of unease and uncertainty. The world watched in horror as Australia burned, with an estimated half billion animals lost, and the vegetation and fungi that called the continent home destroyed.
Just as the world was trying to come to terms with the devastating consequences of climate change, news broke of the assassination of Iranian Major General Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis by US President Donald Trump. The world teetered on the brink of war, with the threat of World War III looming large.
As East Africans, we are no strangers to the threat of global conflicts and their impact on our region. The increased presence of security forces and the heightened vigilance of foreign security forces on our soil are a stark reminder of the dangers that lie ahead.
Yet, amidst all the chaos and uncertainty, Elsie Eyakuze finds hope. In her column, she writes, 'I find that this and other ongoing events have affirmed my hope and I am oddly optimistic.'
So, what can we do to navigate this uncharted territory? Eyakuze suggests that we 'chill and get smart.' We must learn to be self-sufficient and prepared for the worst. Practical survival skills such as becoming a healer, knowing how to make water safe to drink, and treating minor wounds are essential in these uncertain times.
As we head into an election year in several countries, Eyakuze's message is clear: 'Hope and act smartly so that your political actions may not harm your fellow citizens.'
As we embark on this new decade, we must be mindful of the challenges that lie ahead. But we must also hold onto hope and work towards a brighter future.
