The former president of Nigeria, His Excellency Olusegun Obasanjo, alongside His Excellency Jakaya Mrisho, former president of Tanzania and His Excellency Carlos Veiga, former prime minister of Cape Verde, discuss leadership and development in Africa at Harvard Kennedy School JFK Jr. Forum on Wednesday. The former presidents,  entertained questions from audience  members and Thoko Moyo who currently serves as the Kennedy School’s associate dean for communications and public affairs.

Douglas W. Elmendorf , Kennedy School Dean, points out that Harvard University intends to play a significant role in promoting scholarship in Africa as well as building strong connections between the United States and countries in Africa. The former presidents, discuss the importance of both  strong leadership and strong institutions, as well as commitment to serve the country and people in order for African countries to succeed. His Excellency Olusegun Obasanjo emphasizes that strong leaders and not just strong institutions as former U.S  President Barack Obama pointed out in his 2009 statement, are essential for the success of African countries.