To most Africans, tribalism simply means very strong loyalty to one’’s ethnic group. It is a force that can be both good and bad. By definition tribalism means sharing among members of the extended family. It makes sure that a person is taken care of by his own group. To give a job to a fellow tribesman is not wrong; it is an obligation. Similarly ,for a politician or military leader it is considered good common sense to choose his closest adviser from people of his own tribe. This ensures security, continuity, authority. Tribal loyalty may mean a quick promotion--from sergeant to captain, from clerk to manager--within a very short time. Modern African politicians publicly speak out against tribal divisions. Yet it remains perhaps the most powerful force in day-to-day African life. As evidence of tribalism, in 1977 in Kenya, president Jomo Kenyatta’’s tribe controlled business and politics. Eight of the 21 cabinet posts, including the most important four were filled. by Kikuyus. In Uganda in the same year, the president’’ s small Kakwa tribe filled almost all the highest government and military positions! In Agola, Ethiopia, and Nigeria, the fighting in the past ten years can be partly explained by disagreements among tribes. One example of bow a tribe takes care of its own people is______.

A. a force that can be both good and bad
B. very strong loyalty to one’’s ethnic group
C. tribal loyalty may mean a quick promotion
D. it is important to be loyal to one’’ s own tribal group