Africa, Historicism and Historical Dynamics: Need for Affirmative Action in Postcolonial Africa

Abstract

 Africa is arguably the most battered and the most misrepresented continent in the world; slavery, colonialism and neo-colonialism and continuous stereotyping its people. African civilization is dynamic – language, socio-political structure, architecture, religion, art, philosophy and ethics, technology and economy etc. – and has been part of the human march to progress. Using historical analysis, the paper interrogates Africa’s experiences through historical trajectory and examines how to harness its potentials for future greatness; for continuous shining of the inextinguishable African light on the Mainland and in the Diaspora. The study demonstrates that historical defeat is a menace that a people can turn into a success through the lessons of history. The paper calls for jettisoning historicism, re-emphasises Africa’s immense contributions to civilization and provides a glimpse into the future of its greatness. Looking beyond the centuries of subjugation and dehumanization, the grandeur of African past and its resistance to subjugation and exploitation demonstrate a culture of struggle and resilience. The various discoveries and inventions by Africans show the undying African spirit. Contemporary Pan-Africanism is to Africanise globalization, celebrate African achievements and create – Innovate Africa! The thesis of the paper is that a distinctive African personality is required to achieve African renaissance – a cultural rebirth geared toward African technological development.