This paper by the former president of the University of Liberia on building consensus for higher education reform in Africa begins by identifying three obstacles to reform: (1) lack of understanding of the complex African context which could result in setting the wrong goals for reform; (2) a political situation that inhibits freedom of thought and restricts the political participation of the majority of the continent's people; and (3) the lack of readily available funds to support reform. Approaches to removing these obstacles and facilitating reform are discussed in terms of consultation processes, organizational structures, and management decisions. Five specific management actions are urged: instituting proper financial management; computerizing student records; instituting overall personnel policies; establishing a university relations office; and establishing a planning unit. In addition, the roles of key actors and interest groups students, governments, graduates, other higher education institutions, and international donor agencies are addressed. (Contains 13 references.) (DB)