by Chola Milambo
Ever since the election of November the 4th 2008, there has been much talk about the multitudes of people who will descend onto the capital city from far and wide to be a part of this historic inauguration – the swearing in of the first African-American as the President of the United States of America. The authorities have also announced the closure of several main roads and bridges into the DC (as they call the city), particularly from the state of Virginia which is to the south. So to get a glimpse of some of the preparations that were taking place, on Wednesday January 17, 2009 I decided to drive down with a camera in hand from Howard University which is not far from the main business district.
As expected, the city was buzzing with activity. More cars on the road, more people walking on the street and several people donned in different types of Barack Obama attire, from t-shirts, to hats, from watches to gloves. It was clear that the big event was around the corner. By the way talking about corners, there seemed to be a ntemba at almost ever corner selling anything that would fit the name ‘Obama’ on it, as I approached 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue where the White House is situated. 
The front of the White House was particularly busy with workers setting up an enclosure where the VIPs shall watch the parade that takes place there every four years. Several tourists paused for photographs in front of the White House even though the temperature was close to freezing point. Judging from the general mood and euphoria in the air, I doubt if the cool arctic air that has blown into the city will deter several others to be out on what could be a very frigid January 20. On that day, over a million people shall converge in the three-kilometer-long lawn that stretches between the Capitol Hill, where the swearing will take place, and the Lincoln Memorial. This gathering is certain to invoke the memories of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom that took place on August, 28 1963, when civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous ‘I have a Dream’ speech. With that in mind, off to the Lincoln Memorial I went.
At the Lincoln Memorial, I found a stage and large speakers were being put in place for a live concert where several celebrities shall perform. This is just one of the many events scheduled for the inauguration week. It has been a long tradition of the inaugural period that several galas are attended by the newly sworn in President dating back to early years of the Nation. But as I stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, my thoughts were not on the long history of inaugural celebrations, but in rather on the long journey people of color have had to travel to gain a fair standing in the United States.
I thought of how their ancestors were brought in from distant lands as slaves, some sold by their fellow Africans. I thought of the struggle for the abolition of slavery and the cry by northerners such as Abraham
Lincoln that all men are created equal. I pondered upon the Civil War that ensued and the emancipation of African-Americans. I imagined the struggles of Frederick Douglas in the late 1800s as the first black Vice-Presidential Candidate for a political party in the country, almost 100 years before the signing of the National Voting Rights Act of 1965, which outlawed discriminatory voting practices. I admired the courage of Rosa Parks and the resolve of Malcolm X. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who would have been 80 years old on January 15, told the world he dreamt of a time when man would not be judged by the color of is skin but by the content of his character – a message which found resonance with many African freedom fighters of the time such as our own Dr. Kenneth Kaunda.
What a journey. The lone black United States Senator of the 110th congress will be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States of America at the US Capitol, a structure built with the brawn power of black slaves.
The significance of this moment cannot be made light. The message it shall send to countries in which minority groups continue to be marginalized is powerful and one of hope. That freedom prevails in time.
As I drove through the crowded roads of the central business district and back to Howard University, I was convinced that I had joined those who believe that a multitude shall gather for this event. During my short tour, I saw excitement from all races; black, white, Asian and Latino. There a general sense of hope of a new day here in DC, and it seems to be contagious. In that respect, I can say I am now more certain of another thing – change has come to America!
History in the making!
I’ll will be watching this historic event and thinking of my grandparents who never even imagined it was possible.
This is one of the “Greatest events of the third Millennium”
Have Driven from Philly to DC before, I feel that I am a part of this Inuguration.
I am glad to see that the world has come a long way since the days when the colonialist would use the backs of my people as a red carpet.
I am proud to say that I am a proud citizen of the world.
Encouraging, Obama should hold the African leaders accountable so that they learn to solve their problems. If he as a black man will be able to lead his country effectively and efficiently and be held accountable by Americans what excuse have all these African leaders to be failing the way they are failing, they should be held accountable.
I sincerely pray Africans have not taken President elect Obama as their Messiah who will shower us with manor from DC henceforth.Cardinal to know that Africa has no “Imperial Presidency” to go against the all powerful Congress on Foreign policy and power of the purse.All major appropriations are by congress who carry the power of the purse.
CORRECTION
Cardinal to know that America has no “Imperial Presidency”
The Inaugulation memorable, I will be glued to the TV to witness history in the making. But Let us not just celebrate OBAMA ascending to power BUT reflect on AFRICAN presidents we have at the moment. What legacy are they leaving behind. Are we happy with their rule?
African should polish up the act & hold those in leadership accountable.No point ululating OBAMA & turn a blind eye to the mis-treating / mis-ruling and plundering countries resources by a few greedy people in power who claim / lie to us that “We the masses” are the masters” to woodwink us.
It is historically befitting to celebrate this incredible milestone in American history but necessary to do so with enough space for disappointment too.Obama like any human being is now a politician.Henceforth he will be making and presiding over political decisions in the best interest of his country first and not foreign nations as a matter of priority.Secondly, his Presidency will be one with unimaginable challenges and historic moments out of this economic contraction here with the world for a long haul if not almost half of his first term.
mpangula Mputyu
African Leaders all have their “Legacies.”
:-w its Murder, threats, corruption, theft, ignorrance and yes SLEEPING.
How i wish we had 10 obamas in Africa.
>:d<>:d<
Sage,Sounds interesting.One thing that we should learn from Obama’s Victory is to reflect on our past personal archivements and forecass on our future with regard to our potential.I personally i come to believe that everything in this world is possible.If you look at the past sruggles for presidency by black Americans,today will think one is fighting a loosing battle.But see what has happened.Lets rejoice without forgetting our personal responsibilities especilly when there is a global financial criss.
So it is possible!
If I’m to be remembered in a hundred years, it’s because I lived in the time when the first US black prezdwa was elected.It makes me feel so GREAT.
#12 Dont be to optimistic my friend, he hasnt yet got into office and made any major executive decisions yet. All the same I am glad he is getting into office and i am told this will be the EIGHTH WONDER OF THE WORLD. Viva Black Power !!!!!:d/
This is a moment of hope and reflection on our lives as black people, if a black person can make it as president of the USA then we should have no excuse for not developing Africa, moreover our leaders who stood up to declare their interests in leading and serving our country during have no excuse for failure.
Last paragraph in 17 should read “leading and serving our country during elections have no excuse for failure.
#16 Ba maureen,Obama’s victory is something to rejoice on whether he fails or not,it will be our first step to real liberty as africans. [-x
Nothing wrong with these personality cult views we are hearing and seeing ever since our dear brother went on the trails and emerged. Our learning curve ought be on self introspection.Individually, have our lives been lived to the task and potential of being leaders in our domains too? Have we conducted ourselves befitting the calling of potential leaders who can emerge? Would we be outstanding given extruciating real clear politiking and background check? What tough decisions have we ever made or pulled through yet with hope? Do we thrive on opinions against principles?
O riginal B orn in A frica to M anage A mericans.OBAMA. He is the real positive Man who deserves what is worth to him **==**==**==:-c:-c:-h:-h
O riginally B orn in A frica to M anage A mericans.OBAMA. He is the real positive Man who deserves what is worth to him **==**==**==:-c:-c:-h:-h
This is wonderful! I wish I was there to witness History with my own eyes. It is something that EVERY Black-skinned human being on planet Earth should feel proud of!
I can hardly hold back my pride whenever I hear that soothing voice and see that messianic face of this man…YES WE CAN!!!
Yes We Can!!!
I’m proud to be black and black to be proud.Black I’m I.
‘The significance of this moment cannot be made light. The message it shall send to countries in which minority groups continue to be marginalized is powerful and one of hope. That freedom prevails in time.’
We Africans should also brace ourselves for constitutional amendments to allow non black citizens to contest for the highest office in our respective countries. We should be choosing leaders on merit, and not on tribe, ethnicity or otherwise.
That would answer #10.’No point ululating OBAMA & turn a blind eye to the mis-treating / mis-ruling and plundering countries resources by a few greedy people in power who claim / lie to us that “We the masses” are the masters” to woodwink us.’
At last!!! You can only appreciate it when you understand what our fore fathers went thru to liberate a black man. I wish Martin Luther jnr was around to witiness this defining moment in history.
After decades of political independence, we are still battling with misrule,corruption,elections rigging,wars, etcetera. How can we develop like that? How can we fight hunger, poverty, disease, with all the negatives before us. We need an introspection.
Oh what a joy it is for I and I to behold the positive change from Bush to Obama in de US of A.
It is as sweet as the herbs of Hermon and as fresh as the pon Mount Zion…
Whole heap a Rastaman & Twelve Tribes of Israel arrive inna Washington fi beat de Kete drum and celebrate de victory while all de enemies are confounded…
While it this event is one for the history books of having a mixed race person with an African father as the President of the USA, currently the most powerful country in the world. Prepare 40% of disappointments from this man. I believe that the “system” wanted Obama to be President. I guess the NWO wanted to come up with something as shocking as the 911 drama of 2001 in NY. To foresee what an Obama gov’t will feel and look like, we just have to look at the people he has appointed in key positions. The majority of them are jewish americans which means there will be no major change in middle east policy, may be Africa will benefit a little but overall the ‘American show’ will go on.
Guyz, we are part of this history in the making…..
Obama you are the man.
Finally its here, the power of a dream. God u’re faithful to ur promises. I pray the u give Obama wisdom and not to bring shame to ur k/dom..
I’m no words but just to say how happy I’m espcially that I’m still alive when its happening.
Shame on British Africans who dont want to be called African British. VIVA Obama and everyone who is black as this victory is for all of us.It will change the way pipo look at the blace race.
We thank God for making this to come to pass
Sorry I meant Black race
Oh God,
Help thy servant Obama,he has alot to do and alot alot of challenges.Thank you Lord that with you all things are possible.All the best Barrack Obama you will be the President of America in a few hours time. =d>=d>=d>=d>=d>
“… told the world he dreamt of a time when man would not be judged by the color of is skin but by the content of his character – a message which found resonance with many African freedom fighters of the time such as our own Dr. Kenneth Kaunda.”
Firstly,what an impressive glimpse of the preparations for the big day:nice photos and hisotry message.Indeed,past history is very important as we move on to make new history.
Secondly,the quote baove has a great message for all of us to notice that the CONTENT OF HIS (MAN’S) CHARACTER is what is cardinal in this life.Let us not be cheated with cheap talk,but depend on checking and counterchecking the CHARACTER of people who aspire to led us.
36. Maestro Hhehhehhehhe, I am really proud that I am a black man and Zambian World Citizen. Not because of US President-elect B. Obama, but because the good Lord God, my Creator, created me in this form of which I am designed like His own image.
As for Mr President-elect B. Obama, I wish him the very best. There is a hard job to do ahead of him and so he will need my and our support. Should he fail to bring about his campaign message change issues, then it will take a lot for another African-American to take the mantle as US President I reckon.
To the USA Citizens, thank you for the choice you made and for showing us that petty issues regarding political experience don’t count.
American flag has out spoken on this topic why?
I totally agree,this is a great challenge to all black people who always want to look inferior and think low. Please remember the sky is not the limit. We may not all be presidents but Our aim should be to live a legacy remembered by our childrens.
Go Barack!!
Yes we can….I felt the pangs of anxiety as the primaries went on, followed them minute by minute….YES WE CAN. Lessons for Zambia:
1. Move with time, vote for exposed, inteligent and conected leaders…yes we can!
2. Let every man be judged by the contents of his character and ability not by shallow tribal allegencies and hatrages….yes we can!
3. Young turks, get up and drive your Zambia to higher heights with the passion of our freedom fighters, the Nkumbulas, Julia Chikamonekas, Nalumonos…..yes we can!
40. Engine Bbuloko, YES WE ALL ZAMBIANS SHALL.
We need TEAM players and not dictators. We have too many examples of dictators who have sadly collapsed their countries so much that the county Nations are now in a state that will take years to rebuild. As Zambians and Zambia, we cant afford to make a mistake as the Zimbabwean situation is just at our door-step indicating what can happen.
Suoer Kenny warned us in 1991 and he did the same in the last Zambian Presidential election. So, instead of complaining always, let us bring in REAL CHANGE in 2011.
At least i have finally received an official invitantion as strong Obama support, so i will not be a gate crusher.
Even though Zimbabwe is struggling, here is a very interestin picture:
Zambia
Copperbelt University
National Institute of Public Administration
University of Zambia
Zimbabwe
Africa University
Bindura University of Science Education
Catholic University in Zimbabwe
Great Zimbabwe University
Midlands State University
National University of Science and Technology
Solusi University
University of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Open University
Source: ww w.unesco. or g/ iau/ onlinedatabases/ list_data/ vz- nw. ht ml #Zambia
Zimbabwe is running 7 universities normally!
go barack its your inaug,we gon party like ………….
IT’S SUPRISING. LT, CAN MANAGE TO PHOTOGRAPH (OR GOOGLE US of A PICTURES) NEW YORK BUT FAIL TO DO THE SAME WHEN IT COMES TO REPORT ABOUT SOLWEZI, LUMWANA MINE AND THE NEW TOWN. WE ARE NOT INTERESTED IN SEING THE PICTURES OF WHERE WE LIVE. I AM SAYING THIS COZ MOST (MRE THAN 90% MAYBE) BLOGGERS ARE ABROAD AND OVERSEAS. WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE HOME. AND HOME I DON’T MEAN RB’s PICTURES.
#43 Maestro. Thanks for this knowledge. Just wait for Mugabe’s death. Within five years time, Zimbabwe will look like Berlin. Zambia will look like Berut (whatever the spelling).
#43. Interesting observation. To the Zambian list I would add Northrise University in Ndola, The SDA University (Southern Province), The Catholic University of Zambia (Kalulushi, soon to be opened I believe). Zambian people (Tongas, Bembas, Lozis, etc) are very intelligent but there is something missing, I can’t seem to put my finger on it. Is it that we do not have well developed systems of education, a culture of seeking knowledge, intellectual honesty, or is it the economy that betrays us? Someone give me answers. I know that one of the strengths of a nation is it’s education. Obama mentioned this in his acceptance speech:”Our universities and our culture are the envy of the world…”
… or is it a complex mix of factors? Most probably. But how can we work together to address the situation. Is it too big a dream to imagine the University of Zambia churning out Nobel Prize Winning Research or indeed even setting up it’s own standards that other’s would envy?
Way to go author-Chola Milambo, you have encouraged all these comments, suggestions and ideas. We want more from you about all the events, Go Obama. **==**==**==
obamaaaa!you’re the man! ^:)^^:)^^:)^
What’s the purpose of displaying that Zedian flag in the car? 😕
ZESCO please dont do what you always do. No power tomorrow. We want to watch this historic event
obama nimbama naka family kakwe
46. Peter and 47. TKM, great postings indeed. I clearly fail to understand why we as Zambians/zambia are in this mess.
My impressions are that our media has concentrated news reporting much on politics of poverty, imagebuilding and attacking the current GRZ instead of looking at real issues that affect our economy’s perfomance.
I hope someone will look at this issue seriously.
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LT 2008 Award Winner. =; for Zambia in 2011.