Format:
Hybrid

Coordinator:
Geoffrey Nwaka, Abia State University, ginwaka@abiastateuniversity.edu.ng

Abstract:
The panel takes the position that African independence will only begin with the decolonization of the continent’s history and visions of development; that independence goes beyond the removal of colonial administrations, with Africans taking over as mere gatekeepers of the colonial heritage. We shall discuss the trends in African studies and historiography that challenge the unjust traditions, prejudices and exclusion rooted in the colonial legacy. The panelists will consider ways to restore the distorted image of Africa and renegotiate new international partnerships that will promote a fair globalization and more equitable pattern of global development. We welcome papers that consider how Africa can respond in a balanced way to the colonial experience, and to the unfolding forces of modernity and globalization. In the writing and study of African History, bold attempts have been made by local chroniclers and academic historians of Africa to counter the misrepresentation of the continent as a ‘dark continent’, with no history or civilization worthy of study. New sources and methods have been adopted in reconstructing and interpreting the African past. As well, there is a new trend in Development Studies to re-center Africa, and to rethink the system that views the continent wholly through the lens of the West.

This movement for African intellectual decolonization is now complemented by growing decolonial activism such as the Rhodes-Must-Fall epistemic revolts in Southern Africa against unfair and unjust educational and related systems, and the widespread agitation in the continent and elsewhere to restore priceless items of Africa’s cultural heritage plundered during the colonial period. to return and restore items of Africa’s cultural heritage plundered during the colonial period.

The panel invites papers that:
• Debate different ways to decolonize Africa.
• New directions in the writing and study of African history and historiography.
• Trends in Development Studies and International Relations that explore
alternative models for Africa.
• New approaches to reshape power relations, renegotiate new international
partnerships with the former colonial powers, and with the new global powers of
China and the USA, based on mutual respect, and on terms that ensure that Africa
regains control over its land, politics, and resources.

The panel presentations, based on papers, are to be discussed onsite and online, for
those who wish to present remotely.

Please submit your paper abstracts, or any inquiries, to the following email:
ginwaka@abiastateuniversity.edu.ng

Word count for abstract submission: 250–300