ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses the emergence of Pan-Africanism and demonstrates that its primary objective is to end racial, social, economic and political discrimination against people of African descent whether they are in the Diaspora or on the continent. It demonstrates that the challenges faced by African states such as an unfair global trade regime, the economic and environmental exploitation by foreign transnational corporations, the illicit trade in small arms, the activities of mercenaries in the internal affairs of countries and refugee flows cannot be addressed by one country acting alone. The book then discusses New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) proposes ways to advance and accelerate Africa's peacebuilding and development strategy through improved access to education and training, access to healthcare, and building the necessary infrastructure necessary to make Africa an equal partner in global trade and economic development.
