World Cup in Africa

Today during lunch, we went to a spot we were confident would have the football match on the tele. We caught the end of the New Zealand Vs. Slovakia match. It was quite an ending. New Zealand scored in the final seconds of injury time to tie the game, 1-1!

Then upon returning to the office, we periodically heard roars, cheers, and not as often but occasionally boos from the street. It has become a daily occurance. It feels like we are the only ones in the city of Monrovia diligently working. I am convinced that every television in Liberia is tuned to the World Cup; at least during business hours.

There are many reasons for Liberians to be enthralled with this years matches. One reason- though likely not the most important, as I will explain - is that the continent of Africa is hosting the world cup for the first time in South Africa. Another is that Africa is fielding 6 teams of the 32 teams participating - Algeria, Cameroon- who didn't fair well against Japan, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa.

This brings me to my last reason, which I think is important. Three of the six African teams are from West Africa. And Liberians (at least the Liberians I have watched games with) have a sense of connection with other West African Nations.Why is this? The region has been plagued with problems - corruption, economic and political instability, HIV/AIDS epidemic, food shortages. Their experience is largely common, even if that common experience was in violent conflict between and among ethnic groups that are found in many of these countries.

In 1975 at the Treaty of Lagos the West African countries came together to form ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States). Perhaps the beginning of these modern nations recognizing common interests and goals for the region, and providing a framework in which to manage conflict...together. Perhaps this was the formation of sociopolitical connections in the region, perhaps not.  So, when in Liberia, I am going to follow the crowd and cheer for Nigeria, Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire. Oh....they cheer for the US too, so there is no conflict of interest