And Africa Will Shine Forth: A Statesman’s Memoir

This updated and translated version of a memoir by the now-former Chairman of the African Union Commission Jean Ping provides reflections upon the history of Africa since independence and a strong critique of the West’s relations with African countries, along with many rich anecdotes culled from Mr. Ping’s long diplomatic career.

Throughout the book he calls for greater attention to the demands of state-building and regional integration as the keys to a brighter future for the continent. The original French version of the book was written after Mr. Ping was president of the UN GA and prior to his time as Chair of the AU Commission.

The book includes an Afterword Interview with Jean Ping by IPI Editor Adam Lupel and former IPI Africa Director Adonia Ayebare, who had originally proposed the project. The interview provided us the opportunity to bring the book up to date and give Mr. Ping the opportunity to reflect upon how matters had changed since he originally wrote the book.