The African Origin of Civilisation and the Destiny of Africa (review)

This worthwhile book is a collection of essays presented at a conference sponsored by the Pan-African Student Society at the University of Namibia on 25 May 1999. The conference commemorated the thirty-sixth anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity. The papers covered a wide range of topics concerning the history of Africa and problems facing contemporary Africa.

The book includes poetry, introductory comments, and an opening address. The appendix provides the full program of the conference. There is even a taste of the discussion that occurred at the conference with papers ranging from, "Emasculation of Africa" (by Nahas A. Angula) to "Strategies for Future Action (by Paulina Ungwanga). Along the way, there are papers on "Africa Past and Present," "Creating African Unity," "Cultural and Philosophical Issues," "International and Economic Relations," and "Future Perspectives." It is an ambitious but largely successful undertaking.

The chapters speak authoritatively on the relevant topics. D. Wadada Nabudere, for example, makes a sound case for building the future on an accurate understanding of the past. He speaks of "the real African" world, focusing on the reality of the "on-ground situation." Wisely, he argues that the future of Africa can only be a prosperous and good one if built upon the past. Other authors follow similar paths to base their work in sound empiricism. It is encouraging to note the trend away from understandable rhetorical flourishes to grounded reality.

All in all, this is a praiseworthy volume. It is based on a student initiative, as they organized all the papers. The papers, now chapters, are worthwhile. The volume puts forward well-thought-out arguments and plans on which African civilization can be rebuilt and enter into a renaissance.