The San African

Tag: africa

  • Zimbabwean Artist Merges Tradition with Tech in Groundbreaking Video

    Zimbabwean Artist Merges Tradition with Tech in Groundbreaking Video

    By Shyline Msika 

    Zimbabwean artist Mwendamberi has made a significant mark on the nation’s creative landscape with the release of “Hatiratame” (“We Won’t Live”), Zimbabwe’s first-ever 360-degree, Virtual reality music video. This innovative project, cultivated through an incubator program at Matamba Film Labs and supported by the Irish Embassy in South Africa, exemplifies Zimbabwe’s dedication to embracing cutting-edge technology while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

    Mwendamberi, a seasoned musician with a deep connection to Afro-Jazz, sought to explore new avenues of artistic expression. “As an artist, I’m always looking for innovative ways to express myself and connect with my audience,” he explains. “When I discovered 360 VR technology, I knew I had to be a part of it. It’s an exciting new frontier that allows me to push the boundaries of storytelling and immersion.”

    Contrary to initial concepts of purely futuristic visuals, the “Hatiratame” video presents a profoundly African narrative. It powerfully addresses the realities of climate change in Zimbabwe, portraying a man’s urgent prayers for rain during a severe drought. The visual storytelling takes viewers from a room filled with stark images of drought’s devastation to the spiritual heights of Sally Mugabe mountain. Here, Mwendamberi, dressed in symbolic blue and yellow, engages in traditional prayer, complete with ritualistic elements that showcase African Traditional Religion (ATR). The narrative follows the man as he gains strength from his prayers, then returning to his home to begin the work of rebuilding.

    “The song and video are a heartfelt prayer,” Mwendamberi emphasizes. “It’s a plea for divine intervention, reflecting the song’s title, ‘Hatiratame,’ which signifies our reliance on spiritual support.”

    The project’s success is a product of the collaborative and educational environment fostered by Matamba Film Labs. Through their incubator program, aspiring filmmakers gained essential skills in 360-degree video production, utilizing Qoocam cameras, stitching software, and Premiere Pro. This initiative, backed by the Irish Embassy, highlights the importance of investing in local talent and providing access to advanced technology.

    The 360-degree filming process presented unique challenges. “We had to meticulously plan every angle and movement,” Mwendamberi recalls. “It was a demanding but rewarding experience that pushed us to think creatively.”

    “Hatiratame” is more than a technological achievement; it’s a cultural statement. “I believe this video will elevate Zimbabwean music and art on the global stage,” Mwendamberi states. “It showcases our unique cultural identity and innovative spirit, demonstrating the potential of modern technology. I hope it will inspire fellow Zimbabwean artists to explore new forms of creative expression.”

    The chosen locations are deeply significant, reinforcing the video’s connection to Zimbabwean reality. The mountain represents spiritual connection, and the home symbolizes resilience.

    “Embracing technological advancements is crucial for artists,” Mwendamberi asserts. “It allows us to expand our creative horizons, reach wider audiences, and share our unique perspectives with the world.”

    Mwendamberi’s “Hatiratame” is a powerful demonstration of how Zimbabwean artists are adept at integrating global technologies with their cultural heritage. This project stands as a testament to the nation’s artistic ingenuity and its determination to make a significant impact on the global creative scene.

    The video can be viewed On Youtube https://youtu.be/exVPkh_zOc4?si=8Ynzj0wW7R-AeGns, and has reached over 8000 views in its first week on the platform. You can experience it on your screens from youtube or even in your Virtual reality headsets. 

  • Dead Aid, Dead Future: How Western Generosity Suffocates African Economies

    Dead Aid, Dead Future: How Western Generosity Suffocates African Economies

    by leruo monang

    “Aid has been, and continues to be, an unmitigated political, economic, and humanitarian disaster for most parts of the developing world.” Says Dambisa Moyo, award winning Zambian Economist and author of Dead Aid.

    Moyo’s assertion challenges the widely held belief that foreign aid is a panacea for the economic struggles of the developing world. Instead, she argues that aid fosters a cycle of dependency, weakens local institutions, and perpetuates corruption. By providing a steady stream of external funds, governments are often incentivized to prioritize donor interests over domestic needs. This dynamic stifles innovation, discourages accountability, and hinders the development of sustainable economic systems. Moreover, the influx of aid can distort markets, suppress local entrepreneurship, and foster a culture of reliance, ultimately undermining the very growth it seeks to stimulate.

    Critics of Moyo’s perspective, however, argue that aid, when strategically deployed, has the potential to address critical gaps in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Success stories in countries that have used aid to improve literacy rates, combat diseases, and build essential infrastructure illustrate the nuanced role of foreign assistance. The real issue, they contend, lies in the implementation and governance of aid programs, rather than in the concept of aid itself. Moyo’s critique, while valid in many instances, calls for a reevaluation of aid frameworks to ensure they empower local economies and foster long-term self-reliance rather than perpetuate a cycle of dependency.

    These critiques however assume benevolance on the part of both the donor and the custodians of the donation. It is perhaps the world’s worst kept secret that Africa has, for decades, been subject to some of the worst corruption we have ever seen. Scandals around state capture, embezzlement, money laundering and government kickbacks have plagued the continent since time immemorial. Moyo argues that the cash-flow from foreign not only facilitates corruption but incentivizes it.

    The Proverbial Cookie Jar

    Imagine you are the President of a fictional African nation. We will call her Rimbabwe. Rimbabwe has just come off the back of a devastating battle for independence from British colonial rule. The towns are in ruins, the people are destitute and the economy is in tatters. Infrastructural developments need to happen but there is no money to finance them.

    Here comes the good Samaritan in the form of the World Bank, awarding you a relief loan of US$10 billion to rebuild. Keep in mind, Your Excellency, that there are no institutions to keep you accountable, no checks and balances to ensure the wise stewardship of these funds and no watch dogs breathing down your neck to prevent you from sticking your fingers in the cookie jar. Do you see where I am going with this?

    The allocation of large sums of money to nations with underdeveloped institutions, gaps in legislation and an absence of accountability fosters corruption and encourages politics of the stomach. Those that aspire to reach positions of power for the sole purpose of state capture and feeding their individual desires.

    The Fine Print: Ts and Cs of Foreign Aid

    Foreign aid is often presented as an altruistic gesture, a lifeline extended to nations in need. Yet, beneath this benevolent facade lies a complex web of geopolitical interests. For many donor countries, aid serves as a strategic tool to exert influence over the political landscapes of recipient nations. By attaching conditions to financial assistance, western powers have often leveraged aid to dictate policy directions, sway election outcomes, and suppress dissent. In this dynamic, the true beneficiaries of aid are not the impoverished citizens of the Global South but the geopolitical agendas of those in the Global North. Aid often becomes a conduit for political manipulation, entrenching foreign dominance in domestic affairs under the guise of generosity.

    Foreign aid is rarely given without conditions, and these conditions often infringe on the sovereignty of recipient nations. Whether through structural adjustment programs imposed by international financial institutions or bilateral agreements tied to political reforms, aid frequently requires recipients to align their policies with the interests of donor nations.

    These conditionalities can force governments to adopt measures that may be economically or socially detrimental, such as privatizing public services, cutting subsidies, or reducing public sector employment. While these policies might align with donor ideologies, they often disregard the specific needs and contexts of recipient nations, undermining their autonomy and the democratic will of their people.

    In the 1800s, colonial powers used guns, ships, and soldiers to seize control of Africa. Today, the tools have changed, but the intent remains strikingly similar. Predatory loans and grants, often laden with exploitative terms, have become the modern mechanisms of control. Aid, when used this way, is not a gift but a strategic instrument of neocolonialism, designed to maintain influence and economic dominance over African nations.

    Economic Dependency: The Hidden Cost of Aid

    Foreign aid often arrives with promises of development, yet it can inadvertently foster economic dependency. Many recipient nations come to rely on consistent inflows of external funding to balance budgets, finance public projects, or even meet basic needs. This dependency discourages governments from seeking sustainable, homegrown solutions to economic challenges. Over time, aid dependency erodes the incentive to develop resilient local industries or invest in revenue-generating sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and trade.

    The result is a vicious cycle: nations trapped in a perpetual state of reliance on external assistance, unable to achieve true financial independence. The stagnation of local economic innovation and entrepreneurship becomes a direct consequence of this reliance. Aid donors, meanwhile, gain leverage over the policy and fiscal decisions of recipient governments, further entrenching the imbalance of power. Without a shift toward self-sufficiency, the long-term economic health of these nations remains precarious.

    Aid Effectiveness and Waste: When Good Intentions Miss the Mark

    Aid programs are often plagued by inefficiencies and mismanagement, leading to outcomes far removed from their intended goals. Funds earmarked for essential services such as healthcare, education, or infrastructure are frequently lost to bureaucratic overheads, poorly designed projects, or corruption. In some cases, donor nations push for high-visibility projects that serve their public relations agendas but have minimal impact on local communities.

    Even when projects are well-intentioned, they often fail due to a lack of alignment with local needs or conditions. For instance, the construction of roads or hospitals may fall short without plans for maintenance or operational sustainability. Aid recipients, particularly in rural areas, are left with unusable infrastructure or services that cannot be sustained. Such waste underscores the need for greater accountability and collaboration in designing and implementing aid programs.

    Distortion of Local Economies: The Market Fallout

    Aid can inadvertently disrupt local economies by introducing external goods and services that undermine domestic industries. The donation of food aid, for example, often floods local markets with free or heavily subsidized imports, leaving local farmers unable to compete. Similarly, foreign aid tied to specific donor-country contractors or suppliers can exclude local businesses from participating in lucrative projects, stifling their growth.

    This market distortion discourages the development of local production capabilities and creates a dependency on external goods and expertise. Over time, it hollows out domestic economic resilience, leaving recipient nations more vulnerable to external shocks. Effective aid programs must prioritize building local capacity and supporting industries that contribute to long-term economic growth.

    Cultural and Social Impacts: Erosion of Local Identity

    Aid programs often come with an implicit imposition of foreign values and systems, leading to a disconnection between the intended goals of development and the realities of local communities. Western ideals embedded in education, governance, or health initiatives may clash with indigenous practices and traditions. This imposition can marginalize local knowledge and solutions, fostering a sense of alienation among the people aid is supposed to help.

    Moreover, the dependency fostered by aid can shift societal dynamics, creating hierarchies based on proximity to foreign funding or decision-making. Communities may become more focused on catering to donor expectations than addressing their own priorities. Respecting and integrating local cultural contexts is essential to ensuring that aid efforts empower rather than displace local communities.

    The Role of NGOs and Donor Agencies: Accountability Under Scrutiny

    Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and donor agencies play a significant role in distributing aid, but their operations are not without criticism. Many NGOs operate with limited accountability, leading to questions about how funds are spent and whether their efforts align with the long-term development goals of recipient nations. Donor agencies, meanwhile, are often influenced by the political and economic agendas of their home countries, prioritizing projects that serve their interests rather than those of the communities they aim to help.

    Additionally, the presence of foreign NGOs can overshadow local civil society organizations, diverting resources and talent away from grassroots initiatives. For aid to be truly effective, it must support the growth of local institutions, ensuring that communities have the capacity to sustain development independently of external actors.

    Long-term Environmental Consequences: An Overlooked Cost

    Aid-driven development projects often overlook their environmental impacts, leading to unintended consequences for recipient nations. Infrastructure projects, such as roads, dams, or urban expansions, frequently disrupt ecosystems and displace communities without adequate mitigation plans. Similarly, agricultural aid programs that prioritize monoculture or high-yield crops can deplete soil fertility and exacerbate water scarcity.

    The environmental costs of such projects are often borne disproportionately by the poorest and most vulnerable communities. Sustainable aid practices must prioritize environmental resilience, integrating conservation and renewable energy solutions into development initiatives. By addressing these long-term consequences, aid programs can better align with the holistic needs of recipient nations.

    Alternatives to Traditional Aid: A Path Forward

    Rather than relying on traditional aid, fostering trade and investment may provide a more sustainable path for development. Encouraging regional trade partnerships and reducing barriers to market access can empower nations to grow their economies organically. Initiatives that prioritize skills transfer, entrepreneurship, and technology adoption can help create jobs and build local industries.

    Foreign direct investment (FDI) and public-private partnerships offer another avenue for sustainable development. Unlike aid, FDI often brings with it long-term commitments to local economies, including job creation and infrastructure development. By shifting the focus from aid to economic collaboration, nations can reduce dependency and build a future rooted in self-reliance and mutual prosperity.

    Be Critical: A call to action

    To quote American political scientist, adviser and academic (ironically), “The West won the world not by the superiority of its ideas or values or religion… but rather by its superiority in applying organized violence. Westerners often forget this fact; non-westerners never do.”

    They can no longer stab, shoot or kill us so their guns come wrapped in white envelopes and their knives signed by their treasurers. Be Critical, there is no such thing as a free meal.

  • New Dawn for Women in Botswana: Advancing Rights and Dignity under President Boko

    New Dawn for Women in Botswana: Advancing Rights and Dignity under President Boko

    by teedzAI THAPELO

    The winds of change have swept across Botswana. Following the historic October 30th, 2024, elections, Advocate Duma Boko has risen to the highest office, promising a transformative era for women’s rights and welfare.  

    His appointment of several accomplished young women to key positions signals not only a commitment to gender parity but a deeper reckoning with the structural inequalities that have long held women back in Botswana. Against the backdrop of the 2024 International Women’s Day theme, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence theme, “Towards Beijing+30: Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” the moment calls for critical reflection on what this era might mean for women and society as a whole.

    A Historic Cabinet and the Weight of Progress

    President Boko’s appointments are historic.

    Lesego Chombo, a Miss World Africa titleholder and lawyer, now steers the Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs, embodying a fusion of advocacy, intellect, and representation. Economist Bogolo Kenewendo’s leadership in the Ministry of Minerals and Energy positions women at the forefront of Botswana’s economic future. Emang Bokhutlo-Mutapati’s advocacy for press freedom and ethical journalism takes centre stage as she becomes Press Secretary to the President, amplifying women’s voices in public discourse.

    Together, this team brings diverse perspectives to government, signalling a shift towards inclusivity under the leadership of Botswana post-independence children; a new intellectual generation that is youth-centred, tech savvy, worldly, cosmopolitan, and conscious of the fate and destiny of the nation in the turbulent era of the 21st century, an informed, articulate and analytical generation poised to amplify women’s voices at home and in global agenda debates and decisions.

    For decades, women in Botswana have faced systemic barriers, from discriminatory customary laws to limited access to leadership opportunities in political parties, government and commercial industry. While Botswana’s Constitution guarantees equality before the law, cultural norms and practices have often undermined these rights. By placing women in pivotal roles, the new administration is poised to dismantle these barriers and inspire a generation of girls to envision a different future.

    Cultural Tensions of Gender Progress

    The appointment of young gender advocacy women leaders in a patriarchal society challenges deep-seated cultural norms. In rural Botswana, where customary law often prevails, women’s roles still yearn for advancement beyond the customary recognition of a few women as chiefs. Male-dominated institutions like the kgotla—a communal decision-making forum—have historically sidelined women, especially in marriage matters and inheritance disputes.  

    President Boko’s administration must navigate this terrain delicately, balancing progress with respect for cultural heritage.

    The inclusion of women like Nono Kgafela-Mokoka as Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education offers hope for addressing these cultural tensions. By investing in gender-sensitive education, the government can empower young girls while engaging communities in dialogue about the evolving roles of women. Education reforms must include curricula that challenge stereotypes and teach boys and girls alike the value of equality, creating a foundation for cultural transformation.

    Economic Empowerment: The Key to Independence

    The appointment of women to economic portfolios underscores a commitment to addressing the economic disparities that perpetuate gender inequality.

    In Botswana, women are disproportionately represented in low-paying jobs, with limited access to capital. President Boko’s vow to implement his party’s human rights-based manifesto provides an opportunity to prioritize economic reforms that benefit women.

    Bogolo Kenewendo’s leadership in the Ministry of Minerals and Energy is particularly significant. The mining sector, a cornerstone of Botswana’s economy, has long been dominated by men. By promoting policies that encourage women’s participation in this sector, the government can redefine economic empowerment.

    Initiatives such as access to training programs, financing for women entrepreneurs, and quotas for women in leadership positions are crucial to ensuring that economic growth translates into gender equality.

    Furthermore, the government’s emphasis on renewable energy, as recently articulated by Vice President and Finance Minister, Ndaba Gaolathe, provides an opportunity to engage women in sustainable development projects. Community-based solar and wind energy initiatives can create jobs for women while addressing energy poverty in rural areas. Economic empowerment is not just about income; it is about giving women the tools to participate fully in shaping their own lives and communities.

    Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

    Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most pressing issues facing women in Botswana. The 2024 theme for the 16 Days of Activism, “Towards Beijing+30: Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” highlights the urgency of addressing this crisis. Despite legislative progress, including the domestic violence acts and penal code amendment, implementation remains a challenge.

    Many survivors lack access to justice due to stigma, fear, and inadequate support systems. Under President Boko’s leadership, the government has the opportunity to strengthen these frameworks.

    Lesego Chombo’s role as Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs will be critical in ensuring that resources are allocated to combat GBV effectively. This includes funding for shelters, counselling services, and public awareness campaigns. The administration must also address the gaps in the criminal justice system, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and survivors receive the support they need.

    The fight against GBV must also involve men and boys. Initiatives that engage men as allies in promoting gender equality can challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours. By fostering a culture of respect and accountability, Botswana can move closer to a society where women are free from violence and fear.

    Constitutional Reform

    Botswana’s legal framework has historically failed to fully protect women’s rights, particularly in areas where customary law intersects with statutory law. President Boko’s background as a human rights lawyer and constitutional scholar positions him uniquely to address these gaps. Constitutional reform must be prioritized to ensure that women’s rights are not subject to cultural exceptions.

    Aspirations of Pan-African Feminism

    President Boko’s administration arrives at a time when Pan-African feminism is gaining momentum across the continent. This movement calls for the decolonization of gender relations and the recognition of African women’s unique struggles and contributions. Botswana’s advancements can serve as a model for other nations, demonstrating the power of inclusive leadership.

    Emang Bokhutlo-Mutapati’s appointment as Press Secretary to the President highlights the role of media in amplifying women’s voices and shaping public opinion. By promoting stories that celebrate women’s achievements and address their challenges, the media can play a transformative role in advancing gender equality. Pan-African feminism also emphasizes solidarity among women across borders, advocating for regional cooperation on issues such as GBV, maternal health, and economic inclusion, and in this administration we have women who are more than qualified to articulate and implement this vision.

    Towards a Society of Equals

    The road ahead is not without challenges. Achieving true gender equality requires not only political will but also a societal shift in attitudes and behaviours. Women’s advancement must be seen not as a threat to tradition but as an opportunity to build a more just and prosperous society.

    As President Boko’s administration implements its human rights-based manifesto, it must prioritize the voices and needs of women, ensuring that progress is inclusive and sustainable.

    The theme of International Women’s Day 2024, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” captures the essence of this moment. By investing strategically in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women, Botswana can unlock the full potential of half its population. This investment is not just about fairness; it is about building a society where everyone can thrive.

    Beacon of Hope

    The rise of young women leaders in President Boko’s administration represents more than a political milestone; it is a beacon of hope for all who believe in the dignity and potential of women. From the corridors of power to the classrooms of rural schools, this new era holds the promise of transformation.

    Yet, the journey requires vigilance, advocacy, and unity. Botswana stands at the threshold of history, with an opportunity to lead by example in the fight for gender equality.

    As the world watches, the nation must seize this moment to honour its women, not just with words but with action.

    The vision of a Botswana where every woman and girl can live free from violence, inequality, and fear is within reach.

    It is a vision that will require courage, commitment, and the unwavering belief that progress for women, is progress for all.

  • Charting Horizons: Reimagining University Education in Botswana for a Just and Prosperous Future

    Charting Horizons: Reimagining University Education in Botswana for a Just and Prosperous Future

    by Teedzani thapelo

    On October 30, 2024, Botswana witnessed a seismic political shift as the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) emerged victorious in a historic landslide victory. The electorate, driven by aspirations for decent jobs, high wages, and equitable opportunities, entrusted UDC with the mandate to transform Botswana into a nation where human dignity is not merely a slogan but a lived reality.

    In this new era, the place of university education as a catalyst for socioeconomic reform is undeniable. But the question lingers: how can Botswana’s higher education system be recalibrated to equip citizens for a turbulent, crisis-ridden global landscape?

    Decent Jobs and Human Dignity: A Call for Change

    The UDC’s campaign trail resonated with the cry for decent jobs and equitable wages—a message that struck a deep chord in a country where many graduates face the stark reality of unemployment or precarious work.

    University education, traditionally seen as a pathway to personal and societal advancement, is at risk of losing its relevance if it cannot adapt to the demands of a 21st-century economy.

    To meet these challenges, Botswana must reconceive its higher education framework as a dynamic engine that not only prepares students for the jobs of today but anticipates the work of tomorrow.

    Technological Horizon

    We live in an age of relentless technological progress, where artificial intelligence, automation, and digitalization are reshaping industries. For Botswana, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge lies in ensuring that its universities remain at the cutting edge of technological innovation, producing graduates who can thrive in a digital-first world.

    The opportunity lies in leveraging technology to solve pressing local problems, from optimizing water usage to developing AI-driven agricultural systems. The appointment of Prince Maele, with his background in human resources, as the Minister of Higher Education signals an intent to align university curricula with these emerging technological realities.

    Approach to Crisis Preparedness

    The 21st century is a century of crises—climate change, pandemics, economic inequality, and political instability. These existential threats demand thinkers and doers who can transcend traditional academic silos. Botswana’s universities must embrace multidisciplinary and intersectional approaches, combining fields such as environmental science, public health, economics, and the humanities. For instance, preparing students to tackle climate change might require integrating indigenous ecological knowledge with cutting-edge scientific research, fostering innovation that is both globally informed and locally relevant.

    Education for Distributive Justice

    At the heart of UDC’s vision is the principle of distributive justice: the fair allocation of resources and opportunities across society. Higher education must embody this principle, ensuring that access is not confined to an elite few but extended to all capable and deserving individuals.

    This requires a robust investment in intellectual infrastructure, and targeted initiatives to uplift students from marginalized communities.

    Moreover, it calls for a shift in mindset, valuing vocational and technical training alongside traditional academic pathways, so that every learner’s potential can find expression in a diverse economy.

    From Degree Holders to Problem Solvers

    Botswana’s universities must move beyond producing degree holders to nurturing problem solvers—individuals who can think critically, innovate creatively, and act decisively.

    This requires a pedagogical shift, emphasizing experiential learning, internships, and community-based projects. By engaging with real-world challenges, students can develop the skills and resilience needed to navigate an uncertain future. For instance, students in engineering could work on designing sustainable housing for flood-prone areas, while those in the arts could create campaigns addressing public health issues.

    Fostering Intellectual Independence

    The role of higher education extends beyond preparing students for employment; it must also cultivate intellectual independence. Universities should be spaces where students grapple with complex ideas, challenge societal norms, and envision alternative futures.

    This is particularly vital in Botswana, where the dominance of a single political party for decades has left a legacy of limited ideological plurality. Under UDC’s leadership, universities must become crucibles of free thought, nurturing a new generation of thinkers and leaders committed to justice and progress.

    Global Competence, Local Roots

    While Botswana’s higher education system must prepare students for global competition, it must also remain deeply rooted in local realities. This means prioritizing research that addresses Botswana’s unique challenges, from water scarcity to wildlife conservation, while fostering a sense of national identity and pride. Collaboration with international institutions can bring in fresh perspectives and resources, but the ultimate goal should be to build a self-reliant and resilient intellectual ecosystem.

    Leadership and Policy

    Transforming university education requires visionary leadership and coherent policy frameworks. The new administration under Duma Boko must invest in higher education as a strategic priority, with clear benchmarks for success.

    This includes increasing funding for research and development, incentivizing public-private partnerships, and ensuring that universities are accountable to both students and society. Prince Maele’s appointment as Higher Education Minister is a promising start, but the task ahead is monumental and requires a collective effort.

    Toward a Shared Intellectual Future

    As Botswana stands on the brink of a new chapter, its universities must rise to the occasion, becoming beacons of hope and engines of transformation. They must inspire not only confidence in their graduates but also a sense of shared purpose in the broader society.

    The vision of a just, prosperous, and equitable Botswana will remain elusive unless higher education is at its heart, shaping citizens who are equipped not only to succeed but to uplift others in the process.

    The UDC’s victory has created a unique opportunity to rethink and rebuild Botswana’s education system for the 21st century.

    The question now is whether we can muster the courage, imagination, and determination to seize this moment.

    If we do, we may yet chart horizons where knowledge, dignity, and justice light the way to a better future for all.

  • Great Expectations…

    Great Expectations…

    by Teedzani Thapelo

    The winds of October came thick with dust and whispers, stirring the vast grasslands and city streets of Botswana into a trembling anticipation. On the 30th of this momentous month in 2024, the unexpected became real, and the ground beneath the nation shifted like the Kalahari dunes under a gale.

    The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), long seen as a mere shadow cast by the towering Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), claimed an electoral triumph that stunned even its most loyal followers. It was as though the sky itself had cracked open, spilling light into corners darkened by decades of political dominance.

    The Botswana Democratic Party, which for over half a century had ruled with an unbroken chain of victories, faced its reckoning. Like the mighty baobab that stands tall until termites hollow its core, the BDP fell not to foreign invaders or natural disasters, but to the quiet erosion of trust, the muffled cries of the people, and the weight of its own hubris.

    To many, it seemed a twist of fate worthy of African folklore—an epic tale where the once-untouchable leader is humbled by forces beyond his grasp, forces rooted in the will of the people.

    The UDC’s triumph, led by the determined Duma Boko, was not a mere accident of politics; it was the manifestation of democracy’s unpredictable brilliance. It was a moment when the chorus of the nation’s grievances—jobs lost, hospitals crumbling, schools faltering—rose so loud that even the thick walls of power could not muffle them.

    Yet, as the victory drums faded, a sobering question emerged: What now?

    This political earthquake has ushered Botswana into what many are calling its Second Republic—a term that evokes hope, renewal, and the promise of change. But with it comes a burden: the weight of the people’s “great expectations.”

    The UDC now finds itself standing at the edge of a precipice, gazing into a future both promising and perilous.

    The challenges are staggering.

    Public hospitals, once beacons of care in southern Africa, are now shadows of their former selves. The sick wait in lines that stretch like cattle paths, while medicines remain locked away in bureaucratic tangles. Corruption, like a termite infestation, has weakened the once-strong beams of public institutions. And the economy, battered by global shifts and internal neglect, limps like a wounded antelope.

    Boko, a man who has long promised change, must now deliver. The people demand an end to empty speeches and half-measures. The UDC must overhaul public services with a precision that cuts through decades of inefficiency.

    But how?

    The answer lies not just in plans and policies, but in the deep well of hope that propelled the UDC to power.

    Here, the surrealist dimensions of this moment become clear. Who could have imagined that in a nation so deeply shaped by the BDP’s legacy, the people would rise to reject it? It is as though an unseen hand guided their will, a hand that does not care for titles or traditions, but only for justice. In this sense, the UDC’s victory feels like a dream—unreal yet undeniably true.

    The new government must not squander this rare gift. Botswana, a land of vast skies and resilient people, deserves leaders who see beyond personal gain. The UDC must set its sights on the long game, crafting a vision that lifts the nation out of its current malaise and into a future of shared prosperity. They must listen to the farmers who toil under an unforgiving sun, the miners who dig deep into the earth for wealth they seldom share, and the youth whose futures feel as uncertain as the rains.

    As the first rains of November break over the land, washing away the dust of the election, there is a sense of renewal in the air. The people are watching, waiting, their faith both fragile and fierce.

    The UDC has been handed not just a mandate, but a mission—a chance to prove that democracy in Botswana is alive and well, capable of reinventing itself when the old ways fail.

    But with great expectations comes great responsibility. Boko and his team must remember that the story of Botswana is not theirs alone to write. It belongs to the nurses who save lives with too few resources, the teachers who inspire despite broken chalkboards, the mothers who walk miles to fetch water.

    These are the real heroes of the Second Republic, and it is for them that the UDC must govern.

    In the years to come, historians may look back on this election as a turning point—a moment when the people, weary of the old ways, reached for something new. Whether the UDC rises to meet this moment or falls under its weight remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Botswana’s journey has entered a new chapter, one filled with uncertainty and promise in equal measure.

    The land waits, as it always has, for the rains to bring life to its parched soil. And the people wait, too, for their new leaders to nurture the seeds of hope they have sown. It is a delicate dance between expectation and reality, between dreams and deeds.

    But if the UDC can lead with wisdom and courage, perhaps, just perhaps, those great expectations will bear fruit, and Botswana will rise anew, stronger and more united than ever before.

  • And The Crowd Goes…

    And The Crowd Goes…

    In the court of politics, the people are the jury.

    This statement will prove prudent as the cascading words in this article unfold. 

    Sitting in the stands on that historic day was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Watching the seas of blue juxtapose the rivers of red that had flown for 58 years was a wonder. The birds sang a new song. The sun sat in the intimate embrace of rain clouds, waiting to announce the pleasure of the heavens. The day of the Inauguration of the 6th President of the Republic of Botswana, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, was the epitome of democratic historicity.

    The people of Botswana left the polling booths with great conviction. The courts of social media, the voting lines, and the streets were filled with a common statement, “TLHOPHANG SENTLE.” For the sake of friends who may not know Setswana “VOTE WISELY”. These words spread like a wildfire, from the mouths of the elderly to the mouths of despondent young people. The consensus was that no one was to waste their vote. The silent revolution was underway.

    As if there was agreed-upon consensus, Batswana brought the Umbrella for Democratic Change to 36 seats in Parliament (giving them the mantle of Executive Power and Legislative majority for the next 5 years). Furthermore, in a horrendous turn of events, the Botswana Democratic Party (having been in power for since 1965/66) was brought down to only 4 seats in Parliament out of 61 elected seats (about 6.5% before an addition of 6 Specially Elected Members of Parliament).

    The jubilation that filled the streets of Botswana and the seats in the National Stadium highlighted a few sentiments. “A renewed hope is born”, “A new Botswana is in sight”, “The old is gone away”.

    As the new President, President Duma Gideon Boko, was carried around the stadium for the lap of victory, a wave of excitement roared through the stands of the stadium. HISTORY HAD BEEN MADE.

    Through the ballot, Batswana had managed to dislodge a long established dynasty. With great peace and calm, one party handed over government to another. It had never been seen, or done, in this our land.

    In the court of politics, the people are the jury.

    In the crowd, in a secluded section, were high profile dignitaries including representatives of Heads of States and Governments,  former Presidents Mogae, Khama, and immediate Former President Masisi.

    While I am intrigued by the interaction between the two most recent Former Presidents (considering their tumultuous relationship) I believe something more important pervaded: The public sentiment.

    As protocol dictates, dignitaries were introduced. It seemed that the Batswana in attendance were filled with great jubilation when the likes of His Excellency the President of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, was introduced. Mr Julius Malema and Mr Mmusi Maimane also received thunderous applause. 

    It must be acknowledged that Mr Ndaba Gaolathe, the Vice President, received applause that could only be compared to hopeful sentimentality. 

    There are three particular characters who are of interest to me: Former President Khama, Former President Masisi, and President Mnangagwa of the Republic of Zimbabwe. I will address them in reverse.

    Many have been uncomfortable with the relationship between President Masisi (at the time) and President Mnangagwa. This “brotherhood” caused quite a stir for many. This discontent intensified with the Independent Electoral Commission of Botswana went on a benchmarking mission to Zimbabwe (which many alleged was a threat to fair elections. Allegations of “rigging” plans spread exponentially, causing many’s disdain towards President Mnangagwa to intensify. When his name was called, the crowd Booed with conviction.

    When President Masisi was introduced, the crowd booed with great passion. It seemed that the people had rejected the Former President through the ballot and in person. It seems that people had developed a great dislike for the person of the Former President, accounting for decreased Diamond production and revenue, a struggling economy, high unemployment, and more. 

    With Former President Khama, the crowd was filled with great jubilation. While this is contentious, many stood with Former President Khama during his tiff with then President Masisi. Many felt that the former President was unfairly treated. The two had mounted strong campaigns against each other. While many felt that the Khama presidency was troubled, many sustained support for him.

    While the goal of this article is not to assess the validity of the crowd’s cheers or boos, it is to address a debate. Is it right for the crowd to have booed?

    While Batswana hold “respect” to high regard, Motswana says “Mafoko a Kgotla a mantle otlhe.” While respect of the elders is necessary, Motswana also says “Susu ilela suswana gore suswana le ene a tle a go ilele.”

    This is the debate as it is. In finding and negotiating a balance between the two, possibly a topic for another article, one thing rings true:

    In the court of politics, the people are the jury.

  • What to Expect on the 30th: Inside the Mind of the Voter

    What to Expect on the 30th: Inside the Mind of the Voter

    Standing on the precipice of a critical moment in Botswana’s history, one is forced to admit that tensions are truly high. These elections may be the most contentious in a long time. Last night Batswana’s eyes were glued to their screens in order to hear the packages offered to them by the various Presidents and their parties vying for the Presidency and control of Parliament. Observing the debate, and the chatter around it, one of the most intriguing phenomena around this particular election is ‘the mind of the voter’.

    In this article, I’d like to outline the possible “thoughts of the voter”. Often times people tend to miss out on how the voter thinks, thus failing to provide proper analysis. While this is not a comprehensive study, I would like to present a few psychological dispositions as we approach the polls. This is not a set of predictions, it is just an analysis.

    1. VOTER MEMORY

    “Remember who put you through school.” This is an example of a thought in the African voter’s mind. This thought, as confirmed by voters in South Africa and Botswana, rings in their minds on the morning of elections, in the queue, and as one stands before the ballot box.

    Essentially, voter’s remorse invokes a memory of the work of liberation movements and the apparent guilt causes them to cast their vote in the direction of “the devil we know”. 

    Additionally, the voter may find security in a safe vote. Keep the BDP in power. “We owe them for all they’ve done, don’t we?” the voter thinks.

    1. SAFE CHANGE

    While many Batswana would not typically be comfortable with alt-right electoral change, something that is a more comfortable option could be deemed as safe change.

    Safe change basically suggests that things change without threatening order drastically. While change is sought after, and maybe even pursued, it is change that is rationalized and within particular boundaries, while maintaining the trust of the electorate.

    Many voters have made the conscious decision that they do not want to stay with the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). Where they are to go becomes the follow-up question. While they may be resolute in severing ties with the “outgoing party”, they may not be resolute about the direction they’d wish to take from there.

    Since its inception towards the 2014 elections, the UDC has been systematically working towards being the first alternative, the safe option after the BDP. 

    While this may not particularly sound important, many voters need a safety net, even when they romance the idea of regime change.

    Essentially, many Batswana may feel that casting their vote away from the BDP is risky enough. They would need a relative safety net in the Umbrella for Democratic Change rather than pursue a riskier smaller party.

    1. THIRD WAY

    There are some voters who, with particular emphasis, are not pleased with the top two options and wish to go towards the Botswana Congress Party wave. 

    The BCP has strategically placed themselves as the people’s alternative, the third way. In these elections, and even in the debates, the BCP has suggested that it is a strong contender and it is the answer to Botswana’s quagmire. 

    A number of Batswana, troubled by the problems of the BDP and of the UDC, have settled (at least intellectually) in the electoral ambit of the BCP. The BCP may experience an influx of goodwill votes from different constituencies with the “third way” perspective.

    1. STALEMATE

    Many analysts, commentators, and even political activists share in my thinking that a hung parliament is on the horizon. It is seemingly inevitable.

    This result is brought about by the fourth electoral disposition; The STALEMATE. This disposition is observed when the electorate are torn between parties and leaders. With this disposition, there is an increased possibility of a lack of a majority. 

    This then raises the question, which coalition would the voter like to see? Judging from the voices of voters, it seems that the top two contenders for the Presidency are the BCP’s Mr. Dumelang Saleshando and the UDC’s Adv. Duma Boko. Could this mean that a grand coalition between the BCP, the BPF, and the UDC, would be favourable to the voting populous? Or will the players offer an alternative?

    1. NO WAY

    Then there is the final disposition, as expressed in this article. The No Way disposition. This posture is occupied by registered voters who will not vote and citizens who have not registered to vote. Whether due to personal reasons or because of a despondency, this is a critical demographic as it may cause a sway in one direction or the other.

    From a basic analysis of the political climate at this time, it is an unavoidable truth that these elections will supply a surprise to the electorate. It must be acknowledged that the stakes are high and that this is an important election. All I will say is that I am excited for October the 31st. Only then will we know what the voter really thinks.

  • Project Hung Parliament: The Case of Botswana’s Impending Elections 

    Project Hung Parliament: The Case of Botswana’s Impending Elections 

    Many African liberation movements have enjoyed the comfort and security of long-standing post-Independence power. While some powers have been understood as colloquially ‘undemocratic’, many African states have not experienced the democratic pangs (and joys) of regime change.

    For many, it was a shock when the 2024 South African elections delivered a monumental (and historic) result. For the first time since the culmination of the anti-apartheid struggle in 1994, The African National Congress lost the comfort of “secure power”. To keep Mr. Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa in the Union Buildings, the ANC had to enter into some sort of coalition negotiations; then tensions arose.

    The ANC could not be completely dislodged because of the disparity and enmity between the Democratic Alliance (centre-right) on one end and the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (centre-left) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (leftist) on the other end. 

    While the establishment of the Government of National Unity crystallized, it restructured the politics: (1) within the GNU; (2) within party structures; and (3) within opposition.

    The GNU was a formation of government among a number of different parties including the African National Congress, the Democratic Alliance, the Freedom Front Plus, the Patriotic Alliance, and more. These are parties from across the political spectrum, and from varying political and ideological backgrounds.

    While this has its complexity, on a grander political scale, it has exposed the electorate to the possibility of coalition governments while settling in key players. A few major players are the Home Affairs and Public Works Ministers from the Democratic Alliance and Gayton McKenzie, Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture and Leader of the Patriotic Alliance. Honourable Gayton McKenzie has risen to be one of the most famous politicians in South Africa, even surpassing Julius Malema in some polls. While many still believe that the Government of National Unity is not securely consolidated in terms of policy, it is established.

    The parties themselves are undergoing structural recalibration, finding themselves in this new dispensation. The EFF lost its Deputy President, the MKP is growing, the DA seems to be shaking under the leadership of John Steennhuisen and Helen Zille, the PA (through Gayton McKenzie) seems to be stretching horizons of electoral favour, while the ANC is facing existential threats towards the local government elections. There seems to be a rise in potential contenders for the ANC’s top positions. 

    Another case study is that of the Conservative Party of the United Kingdom. After a tumultuous and highly controversial stint at power, the Tories fell at the polls. Under Rishi Sunak, the Conservative Party went from Government to Shadow Government (Opposition) making way for the Labour Party.

    While the party is going through a Leadership election process, to replace Sunak, you will notice that the election (especially in the context of the greater British politic) exposed a conundrum within the party that finds its epicenter in the leadership. This is exemplified by the party’s last 3 leaders.

    On the side of opposition, while the EFF is heading to Congress in December and may face an impending crisis, the MKP seems to be finding its feet. This is the time that will determine the future and existential premise of the MK Party. While this is so, one cannot ignore the Progressive Caucus’ place in politics.

    Although a significant portion of this article was granted to South Africa, it does not stand as the core. 

    As Botswana heads to the polls later this month, many analysts and commentators are arguing about the possible results. While a clear and complete change of power (and a supermajority for the ruling party) does not seem realistic, it may seem that the Botswana Democratic Party may approach, or might JUST cross the midpoint.

    With silly season on, it seems that the BDP is losing its footing and might slip out of the State House. 

    Here’s the catch: What if we get a hung parliament?

    Basically, a parliament is hung when no party has an outright majority and power is subjected to coalition negotiations.

    In the event that the BDP gains about 27-30 seats, the power stands in the hands of opposition. A party like the Botswana Patriotic Front will need 5-7 seats to negotiate strongly. With the Botswana Congress Party’s troubled history with the Umbrella for Democratic Change and its leader, it would be interesting to see how it will all roll out.

    A hung parliament will bring about a new era of politics in Botswana. Possibly a new air of accountability, a competition of policies, legislative rigor, and maybe even reforms. While it may also bring about tensions, it is an interesting prospect.

    Essentially, it seems to me that this campaign season could be dubbed, “Project Hung Parliament”. The rhetoric, strategy, and poise of the players places the election in a precarious situation. As a commentator, I am completely intrigued by the prospect of this election’s results. I am also intrigued to watch how the 3 factors addressed earlier will affect the new government in Botswana. The future of this country lies in the hands of four men – H.E. Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi, Adv. Duma Boko, Mr. Dumelang Saleshando, and Mr. Mephato Reatile – and their associates.

    Finally, I do not find it ironic that Halloween is the day after voting day.

  • The Leopard Question: A Renewal of the Trolley Problem and Ethical Imagination

    The Leopard Question: A Renewal of the Trolley Problem and Ethical Imagination

    Allow me to begin this article unceremoniously and ask a question: “If you see a leopard pursuing an antelope, are you moved to support the leopard in its pursuit of the antelope, or the antelope in its pursuit of freedom from the leopard?” (The operative phrase being “moved to”).

    I conducted a miniature research to find out how a few people think about ethics. The premise of the question is an inquisition of ethics and the moral purview of the human being (especially the African person).

    Many referenced a “natural order of things”. A supposed view that that which must happen will happen. The natural order subjects the antelope to the hunting prowess of the leopard, therefore the leopard deserves the trophy (in this case the meal).

    While this was an intriguing submission, I was particularly in awe of one that suggested that morality is a uniquely human invention.

    While I will not take a position on that particular assertion, I must admit that there is a sense that morality is particularly unique to humans. While nature may have a sense of “good and evil”, the intricacies of a codified set of rules is intriguingly human in its very essence.

    A question has been asked in the courts of philosophy – The Trolley Problem. Allow me to set the scene.

    A trolley (or train for those who may associate the word trolley with a shopping cart) races down a track. You realize that there are 5 people tied to the track who are awaiting their imminent and unfortunate demise. You notice that there is a lever that you can pull to redirect the trolley to a track with only one person.

    Some suggest that it is better for 1 to die than 5. Others suggest that pulling the lever is directly taking up responsibility for the death of the 1 person, while refusing to pull the lever was a refusal to take up any involvement and responsibility.

    Complicated? Let’s take it further. Let’s imagine that those 5 people are hardened criminals. Is it better for the 5 to die or the 1?

    Many other factors could be added to further complicate the question – age, gender, and more.

    The trolley problem is a question that exemplifies the innate complexity of ethics. While there are many branches, and even schools of thought, when we speak of ethics, we realize that ethics and morality are not innately simple to resolve.

    When introducing more factors to the trolley problem, we realize that the goal posts shift, because of various reasons. This does not make understanding ethics any easier.

    Returning to our initial question, The Leopard Question, there are three basic answers: (1) the antelope; (2) the leopard; (3) stay out of it.

    In attempting to understand these positions, we begin to see beyond the answer:

    (1) The Antelope – it seems that, especially in literary forms, it is often expressed that there is one who is innately vested with the brand of good and the observer is then moved to “save” this “good persona”.

    (2) The Leopard – the idea that the strong deserve to win. Those who are superior must come out as superior. This idea may be linked to a stratification, even of human beings, seeing some persons and person-groups being labeled as super-human, human, semi-human, or subhuman (with variations). This may even be linked to an imperial ideology.

    (3) Stay out of it – or “it’s none of my business”. As long as the leopard does not pursue me, it does not matter what happens – an apathetic stance. This view may be linked to the politico-apathetic stance of many, and the ignorance of many towards injustices (including social injustices).

    In considering ethics, it is crucial to recognize the role of cultural, historical, and social influences that shape our moral perspectives. What we deem “right” or “wrong” is often a reflection of our past, societal norms, and the environments in which we exist. This means that our moral frameworks are not only individual but also collective, owing their existence to centuries of philosophical, religious, and cultural development.

    Essentially, while this is not a paper on the analysis on the right form of ethics, this article seeks to ask a question: Is it possible that an ethic can stem from a problematic theoretical framework? Could it be that one’s ethical code could be informed by questionable elements?

    As an African, it is important to question if one’s ethics are informed by an anti-African imagination. It must be deemed possible that an African’s moral framework may be informed by a premise that seeks to undermine their very personhood. Therefore, it must be said that the exercise of the evaluation of individual and corporate ethics must be undertaken. How much of what we have as morality is informed by colonial influences, African cultural practices, neocolonial sentiments, or even critical analysis and synthesis? Do we truly understand, or we merely inherited our interpretation of what is good and evil?

    Fundamentally, this is not an investigation of ethics. This, I believe, must call the reader to look within themselves and ask the pertinent question: “Why do I believe what I believe?”

  • “Cut Your Hair”: Redressing the African Narrative

    “Cut Your Hair”: Redressing the African Narrative

    Having gone through a post-colonial Southern African education system, one thing that many young black boys would have heard is “cut your hair”. The assertion, although subtle, suggested that African hair is intrinsically unkempt, uncouth, and socially unacceptable; that the hair of the African, either unscrutinized by the painful teeth of a comb or any longer than the African bean, is an insult to professionalism.

    While the intent of this article is not to discuss the ethics of unkempt African hair, it is to analyze and critique the post-colonial African narrative. 

    In a presentation entitled “Creating a balance between Africa Tourism Accommodation Heritage and Culture”, Kamill Abdul-Karrim (the Managing Director of PAM GOLDING Tourism & Hospitality Consulting) made quite a number of interesting submissions.

    On the occasion of the Africa Tourism Leadership Forum 2024, Mr. Abdul-Karrim spoke of a critical element of Tourism: storytelling and the role of the African story.

    The premise of his presentation was that cultural tourism is an important element of Africa’s tourism sector. With this premise, one must then interrogate the question of African culture and African identity. This then leads to the contentious matter of history (the historical veracity of the purportedly developed African kingdoms).

    With his research of Mapumbugwe, the ancient kingdoms of Zimbabwe, Mali and more, he (among others) have come to the conclusion that ancient African Kingdoms rivaled the highly celebrated kingdoms of Europe. 

    The development and architecture of these ancient kingdoms were a wonder to be reckoned with. This was until the ‘colonial interruption’. This presents colonialism as an interruption of African civilization and development, beyond just a social ill.

    Abdul-Karrim then submits the necessity of an African Renaissance and Resurgence. Not only is this a revolutionary recapitulation of the African identity, it is a “Reclaiming of the Future”. The wording is not accidental. At it’s core, the suggestion is that the future of Africa is in its past, before the colonial interruption. Fundamentally, a sense of African developmental progression is found in the developmental paradigms embedded in Africa’s pre-colonial reality.

    Therefore, the answer for Africa’s tomorrow is Africa’s yesterday. That is the paradigm of Afrofuturism. This is an Afro-identification outside of coloniality, its roots, and its effects.

    He suggested that the Eurocentric interpretation of African identity must be arrested, and the African storyteller must write the right history; returning us to an African consciousness and harmony.

    In this light, Mr. Abdul-Karrim suggests that digital infrastructure be used to re-enliven the African heritage and culture. Essentially, a fresh new breath must be breathed into African culture to renew its vigor, in the 4th Industrial Revolution. Techonological elements can be used to invigorate the African imagination and memory.  

    Returning to our initial motif, the unkempt African hair, it is quite possible that a Eurocentric interpretation of African realities may blur our vision of those realities. 

    It is then necessary for the African storyteller to “redress the African narrative”. It is essential that the African storyteller gives credence and honour to the African narrative and reality. 

    As an African, I find it of paramount importance that the African person can connect with a progressive-developmental paradigm that speaks to their African identity. 

    In the post-colonial 21st century Africa, the African person must be able to reimagine what it means to be an African. We must be able to return to our Africanness, to go forward in our Africanness – to redress our African identity in a garb of honour. 

    To move forward, we must remember who we are. In the words of Mufasa to his son Simba, “REMEMBER”.

    Therefore, I am tempted to suggest that, whether in the field of Diplomacy and International Relations, Tourism, International Trade and Industry, or more, the African presentation of the African identity (interpreted through the African lens) will present a gift to the world – opening the world up to a true possibility of pure cultural tourism in Africa. Imagine a world in which the African states (especially in the Southern region) engrave the Ubuntu/Botho philosophy into their governance and diplomatic code of conduct. Not only will global stakeholders wish to come and see the lions in the north and the waters of the Okavango, but they will wish to see ‘What it means to be an African’. True African identity in the global market cannot be truly encapsulated by a dashiki cloth and a djembe drum.

    In the words of Kwame Nkrumah, repeated by Thabo Mbeki, “I am an African, not because I was born in Africa, but because Africa was born in me.”