There has been no cohesive voice recognizing the effects of the war on terrorism on Africa and no progressive discussion with regards to what role Africans should play in making the world safe for Africans and other marginalized people in the world. And as the slogans - war on terrorism, axis of evil, with or against us - continue to be brandished like weapons, the world, which includes Africa, sits in a precarious position. These are not innocent slogans: they are intended to close the debate, to put a lid on reason and replace it with nursery school rhymes, says this commentary for www.zmag.org.