It is up to African leaders to show their will and political courage in order to assure that this new pan-African institution becomes an efficient instrument and not a place for endless discussions.

In this quote, Omar Bongo emphasizes the critical role of African leaders in ensuring the success of a new pan-African institution. He stresses that it is not enough for leaders to simply participate in discussions; they must demonstrate political courage and the will to take meaningful actions that turn the institution into an effective instrument for progress. Bongo’s words highlight the importance of decisive leadership in making sure that the institution does not become bogged down by endless debates, but instead actively contributes to real change across the continent.

Bongo's quote speaks to the need for strong leadership and vision in shaping Africa's future. He calls for a departure from political stagnation and encourages leaders to focus on implementing practical solutions rather than getting lost in theoretical discussions. The emphasis is on making the institution not just a forum for dialogue but a force that can drive tangible development, peace, and cooperation among African nations.

The origin of this quote lies in Bongo’s experience as the President of Gabon, a position he held for over four decades. As a key figure in African politics, Bongo was involved in several pan-African initiatives, including the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and its successor, the African Union (AU). His call for political courage reflects his concern about the effectiveness of regional institutions in addressing the continent's pressing issues, such as poverty, conflict, and economic development.

Ultimately, Bongo’s quote serves as a call to action for African leaders to move beyond rhetoric and take bold steps to make pan-African institutions work for the people they are meant to serve. By demonstrating political courage, leaders can ensure that these organizations become powerful tools for unity and progress, instead of being sidelined by inefficiency and unproductive discussions.