ArtemAfrica is dedicated to uplifting a diverse group youth who represent the future across regions in the African Continent. I'll be complicating the narrative, while publishing accounts of young African leaders, as well as interviews with the brightest young voices from the continent.
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We are on a mission to interview leaders from all over the African continent. So far, we have interviewed African leaders from 5 out of 54 nations!
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Zine Labidine Ghebouli
Please describe your favorite aspect of the culture or history of Algeria.
One thing that has always fascinated me about Algeria’s history is the ability of the people to maintain their determination and resilience while facing all sorts of injustices. For the past hundreds of years, Algerians have experienced religious conquests, imperial colonization, authoritarian rule and terrorism. Yet, they have never given up on their rights and have always stood up to all attempts to deprive them from their freedom. When Algeria was conquered by the Islamic dynasties, many Berber tribes, including those who converted into Islam, had fought fearlessly to rule themselves; the same happened when the Christian conquests took place. Furthermore, Algerians fought French colonialism for over 130 years until they got their independence in 1962. Since then, Algerians have also struggled against post-independence authoritarian rule and they are drawing, today, a beautiful picture of one of the most peaceful and civilized revolutions for democracy.
What is the current political situation in Algeria? How can it change?
Algeria has been ruled since its independence by a military junta that has always used a civilian façade. In February, Algerians went to the streets to protests against the fifth bid of former president Bouteflika, who was brought in 1999 and endorsed by the military junta for the past 20 years. Massive protests have then forced Bouteflika to resign and since then, the country has entered a difficult political turn. Today, presidential elections are scheduled on December 12. However, large proportions of the Algerian society are still refusing these elections as they see it as an attempt to regenerate the civilian façade of the military junta and demand the departure of the system’s symbols. Consequently, the country is slowly heading towards a political impasse. This situation could either lead to a real democratization of Algeria or to a state of chaos, maintaining the status quo is no longer possible. At this point, it all depends on the ability of the protest movement to organize itself and provide an alternative that could push the current political establishment to the negotiations’ table.
Are young people actively participating in politics in Algeria?
Algerian youth, for several reasons, have been politically marginalized since the country’s independence. They had no real involvement in politics up until February 22nd when massive numbers of Algerians, especially youth, went to the streets to protest against Bouteflika’s fifth bid for presidency. Since then, a lot has changed since the youth in Algeria have reclaimed public spaces and have actively engaged in political discussions. Today, the majority of Algeria’s youth are following political events and are sharing their opinions on what is happening. Even though they are not doing so along clear political frameworks, i.e. political parties but they are getting introduced, slowly but surely, to Algerian politics. The streets have become the new “political scene” for Algerian youth.
Who is your favorite Algerian/African leader? Why?
I believe that the one Algerian leader for whom I have enormous esteem is Abane Ramdane. He was a revolutionary leader against French colonialism but he was also a thinker and a strategist who many call the “architect of the revolution”. During the Algerian revolution (1954-1962), he advocated for the primacy of the civilian over the military to ensure that the new post-independence Algerian state would be led by civilians and not governed by a military junta. He was unfortunately assassinated in 1957 by his fellow combatants because of his political opinions. Today, as I see the movement in Algeria, the main demand of protesters (civilian state and not a military rule) brings back to my mind Abane’s efforts to prevent that from happening in the first place. Algerians’ struggle since February has been a natural continuity of Abane’s own struggle during the revolution.
What issue are you most dedicated to in regards to Africa? Why?
The first and foremost concern I have at the moment is achieving democracy in my country and the North African region as I believe no issue, be it social, economic or cultural, could be addressed unless we have a free environment where people could feel safe to openly discuss their problems and provide alternatives. Second, I believe one of my main causes is education in the region; it is futile to establish democracies without giving the younger generations the right tools to defend these democracies. Franklin D. Roosevelt said “We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future.” I am certain he was making a valid point, I think the real source of wealth of the African continent is not its natural resources but rather its youth.
Third, I am deeply concerned by the ongoing conflicts and security turmoil in Africa. My country has suffered from the huge price of a ten years black decade (the 1990s) when a conflict erupted and cost us the lives of around 250.000 people. The current conflicts ravaging the African continent are not terrorizing today’s generations but are effectively damaging the opportunities of the future generations. Therefore, I am committed to work on this dossier of conflicts because Africans deserve peace, just like anyone else.
Describe one positive impact of your own leadership.
I think what politics and my civic engagement have taught me over the past few years is that one of the main reasons of political failures, civil unrests and social problems is the fact that at many occasions, polarization prevents us from hearing the other side. I am a deep, and convinced believer in freedom of expression and I consider that it allows me to learn from people of the other side before I teach them anything. Leadership for me is contingent upon your ability’s to serve as an example and engage with others before you attempt to lead them. This is why I believe my capacity’s to unconditionally engage with all parties, regardless of any differences that might divide us, to be one of my most valued leadership aspects. I have a principal in life with people I disagree with, I always ask them to explain their point of view, I hear, and I learn before I speak and respond.
You write frequently about Algerian politics and affairs. Algeria is in the middle of revolution and revolt by young people, but threats to journalists, authors, and thinkers have been prevalent since the civil war in the 1990’s. Do you believe freedom of speech is a guaranteed right in Algeria? What can be done to improve the rights of journalists and academics?
As per the constitution and the international treaties Algeria has signed up on and ratified, freedom of expression should be a guaranteed right. However, reality is far from that. Algeria remains one of the most difficult and challenging countries for journalists, intellectuals and even young bloggers. Today, a simple article, video, or even a Facebook post could get you in jail. I think we are living a dangerous moment as free speech in Algeria is being more threatened than ever before and I am afraid this situation will continue, if not deteriorate further. Even during Bouteflika’s rule, freedom of expression was not as oppressed. I believe that the fact that Algeria has international commitments in this regard (protected and improving human rights, including freedom of expression) should be the basis of any first step made to address the rights of journalists and academics. International NGOs should use this commitment to pressure the Algerian authorities and lobby Algeria’s international partners to actively remind Algeria of its legal obligations. Of course, shedding the light on the current situation of freedom of expression in Algeria is also crucial so that the world is witness to the oppression happening.
Algeria has an approaching Presidential Election on December 12th. After the resignation of Bouteflika, what do you most want to see in the way of reforms from the new President? Do you have any predictions?
I think the decision of any reforms after the upcoming presidential elections will not really be within the hands of the elected president but rather controlled by the ruling military junta. Therefore, I sincerely hope they listen to the streets and engage in a national dialogue that would reconcile between Algerians and put the basis of a potential radical political change. Algeria’s problems could only be addressed with an inclusive and genuine dialogue and not through imposing any totalitarian vision. As per my own predictions following elections, we should wait and see the fate of elections first as canceling elections could still be a final strategy for the military junta to take control of any transition period if the popular pressure is simply too much to ignore. However, if these elections pass and if no dialogue takes place, Algeria will be heading to another inevitable uprising within the first term of the new president; the economic challenges will eventually push Algerians again to the streets and this time, when the country would be on the verge of an economic and financial collapse, protests may not be as peaceful as they are today.
One thing that has always fascinated me about Algeria’s history is the ability of the people to maintain their determination and resilience while facing all sorts of injustices. For the past hundreds of years, Algerians have experienced religious conquests, imperial colonization, authoritarian rule and terrorism. Yet, they have never given up on their rights and have always stood up to all attempts to deprive them from their freedom. When Algeria was conquered by the Islamic dynasties, many Berber tribes, including those who converted into Islam, had fought fearlessly to rule themselves; the same happened when the Christian conquests took place. Furthermore, Algerians fought French colonialism for over 130 years until they got their independence in 1962. Since then, Algerians have also struggled against post-independence authoritarian rule and they are drawing, today, a beautiful picture of one of the most peaceful and civilized revolutions for democracy.
What is the current political situation in Algeria? How can it change?
Algeria has been ruled since its independence by a military junta that has always used a civilian façade. In February, Algerians went to the streets to protests against the fifth bid of former president Bouteflika, who was brought in 1999 and endorsed by the military junta for the past 20 years. Massive protests have then forced Bouteflika to resign and since then, the country has entered a difficult political turn. Today, presidential elections are scheduled on December 12. However, large proportions of the Algerian society are still refusing these elections as they see it as an attempt to regenerate the civilian façade of the military junta and demand the departure of the system’s symbols. Consequently, the country is slowly heading towards a political impasse. This situation could either lead to a real democratization of Algeria or to a state of chaos, maintaining the status quo is no longer possible. At this point, it all depends on the ability of the protest movement to organize itself and provide an alternative that could push the current political establishment to the negotiations’ table.
Are young people actively participating in politics in Algeria?
Algerian youth, for several reasons, have been politically marginalized since the country’s independence. They had no real involvement in politics up until February 22nd when massive numbers of Algerians, especially youth, went to the streets to protest against Bouteflika’s fifth bid for presidency. Since then, a lot has changed since the youth in Algeria have reclaimed public spaces and have actively engaged in political discussions. Today, the majority of Algeria’s youth are following political events and are sharing their opinions on what is happening. Even though they are not doing so along clear political frameworks, i.e. political parties but they are getting introduced, slowly but surely, to Algerian politics. The streets have become the new “political scene” for Algerian youth.
Who is your favorite Algerian/African leader? Why?
I believe that the one Algerian leader for whom I have enormous esteem is Abane Ramdane. He was a revolutionary leader against French colonialism but he was also a thinker and a strategist who many call the “architect of the revolution”. During the Algerian revolution (1954-1962), he advocated for the primacy of the civilian over the military to ensure that the new post-independence Algerian state would be led by civilians and not governed by a military junta. He was unfortunately assassinated in 1957 by his fellow combatants because of his political opinions. Today, as I see the movement in Algeria, the main demand of protesters (civilian state and not a military rule) brings back to my mind Abane’s efforts to prevent that from happening in the first place. Algerians’ struggle since February has been a natural continuity of Abane’s own struggle during the revolution.
What issue are you most dedicated to in regards to Africa? Why?
The first and foremost concern I have at the moment is achieving democracy in my country and the North African region as I believe no issue, be it social, economic or cultural, could be addressed unless we have a free environment where people could feel safe to openly discuss their problems and provide alternatives. Second, I believe one of my main causes is education in the region; it is futile to establish democracies without giving the younger generations the right tools to defend these democracies. Franklin D. Roosevelt said “We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future.” I am certain he was making a valid point, I think the real source of wealth of the African continent is not its natural resources but rather its youth.
Third, I am deeply concerned by the ongoing conflicts and security turmoil in Africa. My country has suffered from the huge price of a ten years black decade (the 1990s) when a conflict erupted and cost us the lives of around 250.000 people. The current conflicts ravaging the African continent are not terrorizing today’s generations but are effectively damaging the opportunities of the future generations. Therefore, I am committed to work on this dossier of conflicts because Africans deserve peace, just like anyone else.
Describe one positive impact of your own leadership.
I think what politics and my civic engagement have taught me over the past few years is that one of the main reasons of political failures, civil unrests and social problems is the fact that at many occasions, polarization prevents us from hearing the other side. I am a deep, and convinced believer in freedom of expression and I consider that it allows me to learn from people of the other side before I teach them anything. Leadership for me is contingent upon your ability’s to serve as an example and engage with others before you attempt to lead them. This is why I believe my capacity’s to unconditionally engage with all parties, regardless of any differences that might divide us, to be one of my most valued leadership aspects. I have a principal in life with people I disagree with, I always ask them to explain their point of view, I hear, and I learn before I speak and respond.
You write frequently about Algerian politics and affairs. Algeria is in the middle of revolution and revolt by young people, but threats to journalists, authors, and thinkers have been prevalent since the civil war in the 1990’s. Do you believe freedom of speech is a guaranteed right in Algeria? What can be done to improve the rights of journalists and academics?
As per the constitution and the international treaties Algeria has signed up on and ratified, freedom of expression should be a guaranteed right. However, reality is far from that. Algeria remains one of the most difficult and challenging countries for journalists, intellectuals and even young bloggers. Today, a simple article, video, or even a Facebook post could get you in jail. I think we are living a dangerous moment as free speech in Algeria is being more threatened than ever before and I am afraid this situation will continue, if not deteriorate further. Even during Bouteflika’s rule, freedom of expression was not as oppressed. I believe that the fact that Algeria has international commitments in this regard (protected and improving human rights, including freedom of expression) should be the basis of any first step made to address the rights of journalists and academics. International NGOs should use this commitment to pressure the Algerian authorities and lobby Algeria’s international partners to actively remind Algeria of its legal obligations. Of course, shedding the light on the current situation of freedom of expression in Algeria is also crucial so that the world is witness to the oppression happening.
Algeria has an approaching Presidential Election on December 12th. After the resignation of Bouteflika, what do you most want to see in the way of reforms from the new President? Do you have any predictions?
I think the decision of any reforms after the upcoming presidential elections will not really be within the hands of the elected president but rather controlled by the ruling military junta. Therefore, I sincerely hope they listen to the streets and engage in a national dialogue that would reconcile between Algerians and put the basis of a potential radical political change. Algeria’s problems could only be addressed with an inclusive and genuine dialogue and not through imposing any totalitarian vision. As per my own predictions following elections, we should wait and see the fate of elections first as canceling elections could still be a final strategy for the military junta to take control of any transition period if the popular pressure is simply too much to ignore. However, if these elections pass and if no dialogue takes place, Algeria will be heading to another inevitable uprising within the first term of the new president; the economic challenges will eventually push Algerians again to the streets and this time, when the country would be on the verge of an economic and financial collapse, protests may not be as peaceful as they are today.
Interview #4: Gbemi Awonusonu
1. Talk about an aspect of Nigerian culture that you love.
I am in love with the sense of community and respect for our elders that is the core of Nigerian culture. I feel that in other cultures people tend to forget about their elders and those that came before them. However, in Nigerian culture, there is such an emphasis on remembering the ones that paved the way for you. When women genuflect or when men prostrate in the presence of our elders, it is the Nigerian way to thank them for the sacrifices that they made for us. Moreover, the sense of community in Nigerian culture can be overwhelming. If I meet someone for the first time and they say that they are Nigerian, we immediately click and share an inexplicable bond. That’s something pretty amazing if you ask me.
2. What sets Nigeria apart from other African nations?
Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation meaning that it is teeming with different ethnic groups. From the Fulanese to the Ibo, the Nigerian culture differs within itself, meaning that every part of Nigeria is different and unique from each other. Whether you choose to explore the arid north or the beaches of the south, Nigeria will never cease to amaze you with its diverse, rich culture. Still, Nigerians passion for fashion, art, music, traditional religion, and architecture unites us all.
3. What are your thoughts on the state of Nigerian politics now?
Nigerian politics is in a very fragile state. Our democracy is still in its infancy after years of imperial rule that transitioned into a despotic military state from many coup d’etat. In the present day, Nigeria is still trying to find its pulse in its present socioeconomic climate. Nigerian leaders have fallen short in moving Nigeria to its democratic destiny. Luckily, however, the Nigerian youth are continuously putting pressure on our government to be a true voice of the people. Many seem to forget that Nigeria is merely fifty-nine years old, while other countries like America has had hundreds of years to perfect their democracy. Nigeria’s vast human capital, numerous natural resources, and its untapped potential is pointing the country to a bright future.
4. Talk about a specific leadership role you play in your community.
In my community, I participate in and hold positions of leadership in numerous clubs. I am the treasurer of the Step-Up Club, an organization that helps struggling students during their study hall periods. In addition, I am a senator of the National Honor Society where I actively contribute to my community through activities like the Harvest Drive- a food fund that collects food for disadvantaged families during the Thanksgiving Season. I am also the captain of the Public Forum debate team, an activity that I utilize to discuss the current political, social, and economic affairs of the globe. All in all, all of my leadership roles have allowed me to channel my thoughts and ideas into different aspects of my community.
5. What activities do you participate in throughout your community?
The most frequent activity I do to help my community is tutor. Whether it is through different clubs like Science National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, or Step-Up Club or if it is with my private tutees I think helping people with their education is a potent way to empower them. Knowledge IS power and spreading it provides a feeling of satisfaction incomparable to anything else. In addition, I also mentor younger kids in Public Forum Debate to ensure the trend of excellency on my debate team continues long before I am gone.
6. Who is your personal leadership role model? (can be African or not)
My personal leadership role model, without a doubt, is my dad. My dad was born into abject poverty in a small village called Ashejire near Ondo, Nigeria. He came from a line of hardworking men and worked hard himself. Despite all the odds being against him, my dad was able to become a medical doctor and immigrate to the United States. Even more importantly, he continues to help better his home by supporting his prior university. To be honest, though, my dad’s story is not that rare for a Nigerian. Nigerians are the most hard-working people (I should know I am one haha) and that is why I am only optimistic about the country’s future.
7. What issue in African politics most excites you for the future?
An issue in African politics that excites me is African leaders shift away from Eurocentric Ideals. I feel like because of Imperialism Africans have looked to Europe and Europeans as “role models”. However, I am seeing more Africans being proud of their African heritage. There has been a renewed interest in traditional African art, language, religion, and literature permeating throughout the youth. More people want to celebrate their wonderful and rich culture instead of blindly following the West.
8. Give us one quote that defines African leadership for you.
One of my favorite quotes comes from Thomas Sankara, a fiery Burkinbabe revolutionary. He said that “We must learn to live the African way. It’s the only way to live with freedom and dignity”. I believe that Africa is finally embracing their culture fully and healing from the wounds of imperialism. And that quite frankly is beautiful.
I am in love with the sense of community and respect for our elders that is the core of Nigerian culture. I feel that in other cultures people tend to forget about their elders and those that came before them. However, in Nigerian culture, there is such an emphasis on remembering the ones that paved the way for you. When women genuflect or when men prostrate in the presence of our elders, it is the Nigerian way to thank them for the sacrifices that they made for us. Moreover, the sense of community in Nigerian culture can be overwhelming. If I meet someone for the first time and they say that they are Nigerian, we immediately click and share an inexplicable bond. That’s something pretty amazing if you ask me.
2. What sets Nigeria apart from other African nations?
Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation meaning that it is teeming with different ethnic groups. From the Fulanese to the Ibo, the Nigerian culture differs within itself, meaning that every part of Nigeria is different and unique from each other. Whether you choose to explore the arid north or the beaches of the south, Nigeria will never cease to amaze you with its diverse, rich culture. Still, Nigerians passion for fashion, art, music, traditional religion, and architecture unites us all.
3. What are your thoughts on the state of Nigerian politics now?
Nigerian politics is in a very fragile state. Our democracy is still in its infancy after years of imperial rule that transitioned into a despotic military state from many coup d’etat. In the present day, Nigeria is still trying to find its pulse in its present socioeconomic climate. Nigerian leaders have fallen short in moving Nigeria to its democratic destiny. Luckily, however, the Nigerian youth are continuously putting pressure on our government to be a true voice of the people. Many seem to forget that Nigeria is merely fifty-nine years old, while other countries like America has had hundreds of years to perfect their democracy. Nigeria’s vast human capital, numerous natural resources, and its untapped potential is pointing the country to a bright future.
4. Talk about a specific leadership role you play in your community.
In my community, I participate in and hold positions of leadership in numerous clubs. I am the treasurer of the Step-Up Club, an organization that helps struggling students during their study hall periods. In addition, I am a senator of the National Honor Society where I actively contribute to my community through activities like the Harvest Drive- a food fund that collects food for disadvantaged families during the Thanksgiving Season. I am also the captain of the Public Forum debate team, an activity that I utilize to discuss the current political, social, and economic affairs of the globe. All in all, all of my leadership roles have allowed me to channel my thoughts and ideas into different aspects of my community.
5. What activities do you participate in throughout your community?
The most frequent activity I do to help my community is tutor. Whether it is through different clubs like Science National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, or Step-Up Club or if it is with my private tutees I think helping people with their education is a potent way to empower them. Knowledge IS power and spreading it provides a feeling of satisfaction incomparable to anything else. In addition, I also mentor younger kids in Public Forum Debate to ensure the trend of excellency on my debate team continues long before I am gone.
6. Who is your personal leadership role model? (can be African or not)
My personal leadership role model, without a doubt, is my dad. My dad was born into abject poverty in a small village called Ashejire near Ondo, Nigeria. He came from a line of hardworking men and worked hard himself. Despite all the odds being against him, my dad was able to become a medical doctor and immigrate to the United States. Even more importantly, he continues to help better his home by supporting his prior university. To be honest, though, my dad’s story is not that rare for a Nigerian. Nigerians are the most hard-working people (I should know I am one haha) and that is why I am only optimistic about the country’s future.
7. What issue in African politics most excites you for the future?
An issue in African politics that excites me is African leaders shift away from Eurocentric Ideals. I feel like because of Imperialism Africans have looked to Europe and Europeans as “role models”. However, I am seeing more Africans being proud of their African heritage. There has been a renewed interest in traditional African art, language, religion, and literature permeating throughout the youth. More people want to celebrate their wonderful and rich culture instead of blindly following the West.
8. Give us one quote that defines African leadership for you.
One of my favorite quotes comes from Thomas Sankara, a fiery Burkinbabe revolutionary. He said that “We must learn to live the African way. It’s the only way to live with freedom and dignity”. I believe that Africa is finally embracing their culture fully and healing from the wounds of imperialism. And that quite frankly is beautiful.
Interview #3 - Kemal Mohamedou
October 19, 2019
Where are you from? What are the languages you speak, and what countries do you call home?
Kemal Mohamedou: I was born in Geneva, Switzerland, where I currently reside. I grew up in three different countries on three different continents, having lived in Cambridge, Massachusetts in the United States; Nouakchott, Mauritania; and Geneva. I speak Arabic, Hassaniya Arabic (which is the Mauritanian dialect), English, French, and Spanish. I am Mauritanian by descent and I also hold US and Swiss citizenship. In terms of affinities, I feel strongly attached to all three countries.
Describe the current political situation in Mauritania.
The country has recently held presidential elections. It was an important moment for the country as it was a peaceful transfer of power, a rarity in Africa and in the Arab world. Generally, the country is moving along relatively fine, with the challenges of development being the main ones. The vast country is blessed with many resources such as oil, iron, and fisheries, and a small population. If it is able to manage its different assets well and engineer an economic take- off, as well as equitable redistribution of wealth, it can greatly improve the situation of the people – something I think is quite achievable and in a not-too-distant future.
What do you make of lingering French presence in their former African colonies? Do you believe this is a safe level of cooperation?
Mauritania has a good and peaceful relationship with France, as well as the US for that matter. However, and more generally, I am a strong believer in independence and standing on your own feet. As a matter of principle, I see no point in one country maintaining presence in another. It is high time Africans take control of their own destinies. Deciding matters on your own does not prevent cooperating with others, but it means, however, that no one else takes over your sovereign prerogatives. As an African and an Arab, I see this question of avoiding interference in these countries’ affairs as a key matter. Too often, interference simply leads to exploitation of the societies and corruption of the state and its leaders.
Describe your role at Balance the Ballot?
I joined this student-led international news agency in October 2018. I started as a Writer and, over the next few months, I became the writer with the most articles written and published. This progression led in time to a promotion to Senior Writer and subsequently Head Writer and Editor. I recently additionally became an Admissions Officer for the organization. This rapid progression has been very rewarding. I have greatly appreciated seeing my work widely read (the average number of likes per article is 600) and the recognition I received from my colleagues in the editorial team (a group of dynamic girls and boys based in different
countries). I also enjoy receiving messages from readers who often, out of the blue, contact me to share their views directly and say that they liked the pieces, or ask questions. Such interactive dialogue, which forces me to be more rigorous in what I am writing about and keep engaged in stories as they are read, is something different from my daytime school experience, and I greatly value that.
However, what I have really enjoyed in this experience is the intellectual freedom that this activity offered me in comparison to my compulsory schoolwork. Every evening or so, having finished my school homework, I turn to writing for BTB. I enjoy the switch and increasingly look forward to the moment where I can start thinking about the piece (or two, or three sometimes, as it were) that I can write that day. Scanning the world’s news allows me to be informed on a much more systematic basis, and often following breaking news cycles. Assessing the different type of stories has helped me gauge what is important enough to be written about or indeed be neglected and in need of a spotlight to bring it to the attention of readers, such as African affairs. Finally, the exchange with my colleagues in the editorial team has introduced me to a way of working in which I can learn from them and they from me in turn, all enriching my writing and research skills.
What is the most interesting news story you have seen, or written, about Africa?
Two articles I particularly enjoyed researching and writing were profiles of the late Patrice Lumumba and Thomas Sankara. Most people, including many young Africans, do not know about these two extraordinary leaders – one was the first prime minister of independent Congo, the other the president of Burkina Faso – who were both assassinated, respectively in 1961 and 1987. It was enriching for me to research them further, beyond my own knowledge of their stories, and present their biographies fully to the readers. The two stories were also important in presenting two cases of strong and positive African leadership. Their stories are tragic as both were killed by political opponents, including with a helping foreign hand – quite explicitly by now in the case of Lumumba. Both men called for a radical re-examination of the dependency relationship between their own country and their former colonial occupiers. They envisioned an alternative state-building process for African nations, initiating a series of reforms calling on their fellow countrymen to develop economic self-sufficiency and do away with what they termed “a beggar’s mentality”.
Which African leaders inspire you?
Patrice Lumumba and Thomas Sankara.
What do you think about ideas of pan-Africanism and pan-Arabism?
I think that both of these ideas were very important in the respective histories of Africa and the Arab world. My grand-father was the secretary-general of the Pan-African Youth Movement in the 1970s, and I am very proud of that. I find the idea that he was there then doing this work fascinating. The notion that Africans have values in common and that they share a future was a strong project to build on. That spirit should be recaptured, particularly as the world is increasingly functioning in terms of blocs. The same goes for pan-Arabism where the cultural and linguistic commonalities between the Arabs is a strong bond. I do not see these ideas as nationalistic projects against others but rather force-multipliers to strengthen bonds within these communities and end regional conflicts. As an African and an Arab, I feel blessed by these identities and their historical legacy and I actually have a very easy way linking this to my Western upbringing and experience.
What is your favorite piece of literature?
That’s a difficult one. I read a lot and therefore I can think of many. I would say The Autobiography of Malcolm X and Orientalism by Edward Said. Both are about transformation – that of a man who turned his life around and fought for justice paying a price with his life, and that of the way the West looks to the Orient and how that misrepresentation needs to be changed for equity. I also like poetry, and John Keats’ Ode to a Grecian urn is one of my favorite as it explores a variety of complex themes linked to time, expectations, and fulfillment.
What career do you foresee yourself working in in the future?
Too early to say. For now, I am happy balancing my academic and athletic life, something I wish to pursue in college.
Kemal Mohamedou: I was born in Geneva, Switzerland, where I currently reside. I grew up in three different countries on three different continents, having lived in Cambridge, Massachusetts in the United States; Nouakchott, Mauritania; and Geneva. I speak Arabic, Hassaniya Arabic (which is the Mauritanian dialect), English, French, and Spanish. I am Mauritanian by descent and I also hold US and Swiss citizenship. In terms of affinities, I feel strongly attached to all three countries.
Describe the current political situation in Mauritania.
The country has recently held presidential elections. It was an important moment for the country as it was a peaceful transfer of power, a rarity in Africa and in the Arab world. Generally, the country is moving along relatively fine, with the challenges of development being the main ones. The vast country is blessed with many resources such as oil, iron, and fisheries, and a small population. If it is able to manage its different assets well and engineer an economic take- off, as well as equitable redistribution of wealth, it can greatly improve the situation of the people – something I think is quite achievable and in a not-too-distant future.
What do you make of lingering French presence in their former African colonies? Do you believe this is a safe level of cooperation?
Mauritania has a good and peaceful relationship with France, as well as the US for that matter. However, and more generally, I am a strong believer in independence and standing on your own feet. As a matter of principle, I see no point in one country maintaining presence in another. It is high time Africans take control of their own destinies. Deciding matters on your own does not prevent cooperating with others, but it means, however, that no one else takes over your sovereign prerogatives. As an African and an Arab, I see this question of avoiding interference in these countries’ affairs as a key matter. Too often, interference simply leads to exploitation of the societies and corruption of the state and its leaders.
Describe your role at Balance the Ballot?
I joined this student-led international news agency in October 2018. I started as a Writer and, over the next few months, I became the writer with the most articles written and published. This progression led in time to a promotion to Senior Writer and subsequently Head Writer and Editor. I recently additionally became an Admissions Officer for the organization. This rapid progression has been very rewarding. I have greatly appreciated seeing my work widely read (the average number of likes per article is 600) and the recognition I received from my colleagues in the editorial team (a group of dynamic girls and boys based in different
countries). I also enjoy receiving messages from readers who often, out of the blue, contact me to share their views directly and say that they liked the pieces, or ask questions. Such interactive dialogue, which forces me to be more rigorous in what I am writing about and keep engaged in stories as they are read, is something different from my daytime school experience, and I greatly value that.
However, what I have really enjoyed in this experience is the intellectual freedom that this activity offered me in comparison to my compulsory schoolwork. Every evening or so, having finished my school homework, I turn to writing for BTB. I enjoy the switch and increasingly look forward to the moment where I can start thinking about the piece (or two, or three sometimes, as it were) that I can write that day. Scanning the world’s news allows me to be informed on a much more systematic basis, and often following breaking news cycles. Assessing the different type of stories has helped me gauge what is important enough to be written about or indeed be neglected and in need of a spotlight to bring it to the attention of readers, such as African affairs. Finally, the exchange with my colleagues in the editorial team has introduced me to a way of working in which I can learn from them and they from me in turn, all enriching my writing and research skills.
What is the most interesting news story you have seen, or written, about Africa?
Two articles I particularly enjoyed researching and writing were profiles of the late Patrice Lumumba and Thomas Sankara. Most people, including many young Africans, do not know about these two extraordinary leaders – one was the first prime minister of independent Congo, the other the president of Burkina Faso – who were both assassinated, respectively in 1961 and 1987. It was enriching for me to research them further, beyond my own knowledge of their stories, and present their biographies fully to the readers. The two stories were also important in presenting two cases of strong and positive African leadership. Their stories are tragic as both were killed by political opponents, including with a helping foreign hand – quite explicitly by now in the case of Lumumba. Both men called for a radical re-examination of the dependency relationship between their own country and their former colonial occupiers. They envisioned an alternative state-building process for African nations, initiating a series of reforms calling on their fellow countrymen to develop economic self-sufficiency and do away with what they termed “a beggar’s mentality”.
Which African leaders inspire you?
Patrice Lumumba and Thomas Sankara.
What do you think about ideas of pan-Africanism and pan-Arabism?
I think that both of these ideas were very important in the respective histories of Africa and the Arab world. My grand-father was the secretary-general of the Pan-African Youth Movement in the 1970s, and I am very proud of that. I find the idea that he was there then doing this work fascinating. The notion that Africans have values in common and that they share a future was a strong project to build on. That spirit should be recaptured, particularly as the world is increasingly functioning in terms of blocs. The same goes for pan-Arabism where the cultural and linguistic commonalities between the Arabs is a strong bond. I do not see these ideas as nationalistic projects against others but rather force-multipliers to strengthen bonds within these communities and end regional conflicts. As an African and an Arab, I feel blessed by these identities and their historical legacy and I actually have a very easy way linking this to my Western upbringing and experience.
What is your favorite piece of literature?
That’s a difficult one. I read a lot and therefore I can think of many. I would say The Autobiography of Malcolm X and Orientalism by Edward Said. Both are about transformation – that of a man who turned his life around and fought for justice paying a price with his life, and that of the way the West looks to the Orient and how that misrepresentation needs to be changed for equity. I also like poetry, and John Keats’ Ode to a Grecian urn is one of my favorite as it explores a variety of complex themes linked to time, expectations, and fulfillment.
What career do you foresee yourself working in in the future?
Too early to say. For now, I am happy balancing my academic and athletic life, something I wish to pursue in college.
Interview with Luyolo Mphithi
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Artem Africa interviews Luyolo Mphithi, an elected Member of the South African Parliament and the Youth Leader of the Democratic Alliance, South Africa's main opposition party. In this interview, the future of South Africa's youth, participation in democracy, and recent violence in Cape Town are discussed by MP Mphithi. His perspective on South African politics offers a bright future for young African leaders. - Joseph Mullen
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Interview #2 - Momar (Senegal)
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Momar Mboup is a young Global Citizen Year Graduate who lives in Dakar and is a currently a college student in Canada. He founded an Agricultural Club at his former military academy and instructed 12th grade students in Senegal about the virtues of traveling abroad on a gap year to India. He is inspired by figures like Nelson Mandela and Kwame Nkrumah. I spoke to him to ask about life in Senegal and the work he's doing to inspire Senegalese youth in a nation dedicated to democracy.
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Describe Senegalaise culture. What would you say is one unique cultural quality that sets Senegalaise people apart from other West Africans?
Senegal is a country adorned with a diverse multitude of cultures mainly originated from West Africa. This aspect is a result of colonization during which the European togetherized many initially different cultures into one entity, as well as divided formerly existing entities. They did not take into consideration the presence of indigenous cultures but rather had sight only on their profits, "holy evangelical mission", and colonized territories to create borders. A diverse myriad of tribes with different ethnicities and cultures came together, as a result, to emerge as one Senegal.
As a foreigner, as soon as you enter, or plan to enter Senegal, be sure to expect the famous "Teranga Senegalaise" (Senegalese hospitality) at least thrice from anyone. It is a way of cordial hospitality acting as one of the pillars holding up the basin containing cultural diversity, tolerance, peace and democracy, as well as tolerance of religion affiliations and identity. Senegalese Teranga manifests itself in daily life through simple acts of kindness such as sharing one’s goods, usually one's meal, with anyone regardless of identity, situation or background. This also includes checking up on you and every family member and acquaintances during our long greetings. Although the presence of globalization has influenced and affected the effects of the Teranga, this ritual is still prevalent and deliberately undertaken by the majority of the population, especially traditionalists and the elderly.
To me, there is nothing more fascinating than the amalgam of culture and the tolerance exhibited and chaperoned by our hospitality. It created an atmosphere of peace and serenity in my environment for all my years living in Senegal and to it I am grateful.
Senegal has regularly been described as one of West Africa’s strongest democracies. For example, in 2012 Abdoulaye Wade changed the constitution so he could run for a third term, but was defeated in the election by Macky Sall. What do you think makes Senegal a democracy with more fortitude than its neighbors?
I believe that religion played a major role in preserving stability and peace around the country. Islam and Christianity are the dominant religions in Senegal. In the case of Islam, there are many religious groups, each led by a caliphate (Muslim imam that advises their disciples and perform rituals), which gather people into a tight knit brotherhood. The disciples sincerely believe in their marabout, or religious leader. Some even worship them and give offerings, resulting in a patriarchal system where the marabout guides their disciples in the right religious path toward heaven. Just like how people believe in experts, Senegalese people also put their faith on marabout when it comes to religious matters. For example, when we are sick, we trust doctors and receive a prescription; the same goes for a marabout, when we have a religious ritual to perform, we reach out to marabout. The marabout never promotes violence and preaches for peace. Not to mention, the approval of a marabout means a lot to politician as it encourages the disciples to cast their vote to the approved one. Therefore, he has to follow the marabout's teachings and affiliate himself with the brotherhood to achieve his political goals.
In the case of Christianity, due to their small number in the population, I personally do not know their situation but I know for sure that they are contributing in preserving the democracy.
Your efforts in leadership are specifically focused on environmental development. Africa faces a unique challenge from climate change, as rapidly expanding populations and economies are sure to collide. Can you describe your efforts for the environment and what effect you expect them to have against climate change?
I promoted sustainable agriculture in my former Military academy. Many lands were unexploited and soldiers had free time so I created an agricultural club that could give the opportunity to learn farming, taking care of a business.
Education is critical in promoting future development in Africa. Can you talk about your presentation for local schools in Senegal? What impact on education do you believe you have made?
My friend and I did a presentation about our experiences and the benefits of taking a gap year. As a Senegalese students and citizens ourselves, we were aware of the challenges of relatability with 12th grade students so that the presentations could be relevant for the students. We started off with mini games to facilitate our introductions in which everyone shared their passions and worries in general. It was followed the lessons we learnt from our gap year at Global Citizen Year. Knowing that in Senegal students tend to disregard extracurricular and non-academic activities, we made sure to emphasize their importance and shows how life changing they were for us. For instance, they helped us become aware of our values and passions, build a strong network and friendship, practice or learn new skills and much more. Finally, we presented opportunities for gap years and extracurricular programs, as well as created groups on social media in order to brainstorm ideas and share information.
Regarding the impacts in education, we believe we assisted in creating awareness about non academic programs and opportunities after high school. Above all, we reduced stereotypes affecting students perspectives on gap year.
Who is your personal icon and why?
My personal icon is Kwame Nkrumah, the first President of Ghana. He wrote a treatise on education called "Education for Self-Reliance". It details how different and diverse education in Africa was before the introduction of formal education by colonizers. Urging to not disregard or reject any of the legged education, Kwame insisted on integrating both in the evaluation of education and pedagogy to create better and more socially relevant statistics.
What is your favorite quote from an African leader?
“A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.” Nelson Mandela
Who do you see as the strongest figurehead for African unity right now?
I see the former president of Senegal, Abdoulaye Wade, the strongest figurehead for African unity because he championed the construction of the African Renaissance Statue. Many countries contributed in financing it and this proves that unity is possible and the former president knows it.
What do you see on the horizon for Senegalaise politics?
I see a stronger democracy with the people holding the government accountable for their actions. Every time a political scandal is publicly revealed protests arise and sanctions are enacted. In addition, the transition of power is smooth.
Do you believe politicians around the world are doing enough to address climate change?
I believe politicians are doing enough to address climate change. There have always been researches, summits and projects that are designed to tackle climate change. The only issue revolves around the biggest polluters who sometimes do not want to contribute to the greater good.
Do you believe Western perceptions of Africa are harmful or have they evolved beyond narrow mindedness?
Because media, environment and the people play a huge role in shaping one’s perception of Africa, many of the stereotypes and negative perceptions are understandable. That is why as long as one understands that there are many stories inside a single story and that each situation has its own specific causes and consequences then these perceptions will not be harmful and could be easily altered to less narrow minded perceptions. I understood this concept after listening to the Chimanda Adichie Ted Talk titled: The Danger of a Single Story.
I would say that many perceptions evolve beyond narrow mindedness.
Senegal is a country adorned with a diverse multitude of cultures mainly originated from West Africa. This aspect is a result of colonization during which the European togetherized many initially different cultures into one entity, as well as divided formerly existing entities. They did not take into consideration the presence of indigenous cultures but rather had sight only on their profits, "holy evangelical mission", and colonized territories to create borders. A diverse myriad of tribes with different ethnicities and cultures came together, as a result, to emerge as one Senegal.
As a foreigner, as soon as you enter, or plan to enter Senegal, be sure to expect the famous "Teranga Senegalaise" (Senegalese hospitality) at least thrice from anyone. It is a way of cordial hospitality acting as one of the pillars holding up the basin containing cultural diversity, tolerance, peace and democracy, as well as tolerance of religion affiliations and identity. Senegalese Teranga manifests itself in daily life through simple acts of kindness such as sharing one’s goods, usually one's meal, with anyone regardless of identity, situation or background. This also includes checking up on you and every family member and acquaintances during our long greetings. Although the presence of globalization has influenced and affected the effects of the Teranga, this ritual is still prevalent and deliberately undertaken by the majority of the population, especially traditionalists and the elderly.
To me, there is nothing more fascinating than the amalgam of culture and the tolerance exhibited and chaperoned by our hospitality. It created an atmosphere of peace and serenity in my environment for all my years living in Senegal and to it I am grateful.
Senegal has regularly been described as one of West Africa’s strongest democracies. For example, in 2012 Abdoulaye Wade changed the constitution so he could run for a third term, but was defeated in the election by Macky Sall. What do you think makes Senegal a democracy with more fortitude than its neighbors?
I believe that religion played a major role in preserving stability and peace around the country. Islam and Christianity are the dominant religions in Senegal. In the case of Islam, there are many religious groups, each led by a caliphate (Muslim imam that advises their disciples and perform rituals), which gather people into a tight knit brotherhood. The disciples sincerely believe in their marabout, or religious leader. Some even worship them and give offerings, resulting in a patriarchal system where the marabout guides their disciples in the right religious path toward heaven. Just like how people believe in experts, Senegalese people also put their faith on marabout when it comes to religious matters. For example, when we are sick, we trust doctors and receive a prescription; the same goes for a marabout, when we have a religious ritual to perform, we reach out to marabout. The marabout never promotes violence and preaches for peace. Not to mention, the approval of a marabout means a lot to politician as it encourages the disciples to cast their vote to the approved one. Therefore, he has to follow the marabout's teachings and affiliate himself with the brotherhood to achieve his political goals.
In the case of Christianity, due to their small number in the population, I personally do not know their situation but I know for sure that they are contributing in preserving the democracy.
Your efforts in leadership are specifically focused on environmental development. Africa faces a unique challenge from climate change, as rapidly expanding populations and economies are sure to collide. Can you describe your efforts for the environment and what effect you expect them to have against climate change?
I promoted sustainable agriculture in my former Military academy. Many lands were unexploited and soldiers had free time so I created an agricultural club that could give the opportunity to learn farming, taking care of a business.
Education is critical in promoting future development in Africa. Can you talk about your presentation for local schools in Senegal? What impact on education do you believe you have made?
My friend and I did a presentation about our experiences and the benefits of taking a gap year. As a Senegalese students and citizens ourselves, we were aware of the challenges of relatability with 12th grade students so that the presentations could be relevant for the students. We started off with mini games to facilitate our introductions in which everyone shared their passions and worries in general. It was followed the lessons we learnt from our gap year at Global Citizen Year. Knowing that in Senegal students tend to disregard extracurricular and non-academic activities, we made sure to emphasize their importance and shows how life changing they were for us. For instance, they helped us become aware of our values and passions, build a strong network and friendship, practice or learn new skills and much more. Finally, we presented opportunities for gap years and extracurricular programs, as well as created groups on social media in order to brainstorm ideas and share information.
Regarding the impacts in education, we believe we assisted in creating awareness about non academic programs and opportunities after high school. Above all, we reduced stereotypes affecting students perspectives on gap year.
Who is your personal icon and why?
My personal icon is Kwame Nkrumah, the first President of Ghana. He wrote a treatise on education called "Education for Self-Reliance". It details how different and diverse education in Africa was before the introduction of formal education by colonizers. Urging to not disregard or reject any of the legged education, Kwame insisted on integrating both in the evaluation of education and pedagogy to create better and more socially relevant statistics.
What is your favorite quote from an African leader?
“A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.” Nelson Mandela
Who do you see as the strongest figurehead for African unity right now?
I see the former president of Senegal, Abdoulaye Wade, the strongest figurehead for African unity because he championed the construction of the African Renaissance Statue. Many countries contributed in financing it and this proves that unity is possible and the former president knows it.
What do you see on the horizon for Senegalaise politics?
I see a stronger democracy with the people holding the government accountable for their actions. Every time a political scandal is publicly revealed protests arise and sanctions are enacted. In addition, the transition of power is smooth.
Do you believe politicians around the world are doing enough to address climate change?
I believe politicians are doing enough to address climate change. There have always been researches, summits and projects that are designed to tackle climate change. The only issue revolves around the biggest polluters who sometimes do not want to contribute to the greater good.
Do you believe Western perceptions of Africa are harmful or have they evolved beyond narrow mindedness?
Because media, environment and the people play a huge role in shaping one’s perception of Africa, many of the stereotypes and negative perceptions are understandable. That is why as long as one understands that there are many stories inside a single story and that each situation has its own specific causes and consequences then these perceptions will not be harmful and could be easily altered to less narrow minded perceptions. I understood this concept after listening to the Chimanda Adichie Ted Talk titled: The Danger of a Single Story.
I would say that many perceptions evolve beyond narrow mindedness.
"To me, there is nothing more fascinating than the amalgam of culture and the tolerance exhibited and chaperoned by our hospitality." - Momar Mboup
Interview #1 - Alan (Kenya)
Alan Kagiri is a Kenyan-American living in California. When I first met him, we were both attending a summer program at Tufts University on International Relations and took a course in Arabic together. He easily makes friends with his charismatic, warm personality and vast knowledge. We passionately discussed Pan-African figures such as Patrice Lumumba and, of course, Jomo Kenyatta. Transcribed below is my interview with him for ArtemAfrica.
- Joseph Mullen
Joseph Mullen: My first question is what is your most vivid memory living in Kenya?
Alan Kagiri: Let's see. My cousin had a dog who was very aggressive and only listened to him. We used to play this game where he would stand on one end of the house with this dog, and we would stand on the other. He would let go of the dog, it would chase us around the house, and we would try not to be the last one back inside the house.
JM: Wow.
AK: Yeah, it was kinda like that feeling you get when you're about to go on the death-drop, or you're at the top of the rollercoaster, and we were experiencing that every ten seconds. This one time, my cousin misses the dog, and now it's no longer a game. It's a dog going to bite you. Now, no one's laughing. We're screaming and running in every direction. I run into the outdoor kitchen. I lock the door thinking I'm pretty safe. We realized, though, that the window was open, and we see the dog jump in through the window. Now we're thinking "What is one going to do?" We run through the door of the kitchen, and my sister's right behind me. The environment we lived in was kind of a hill, so we're sprinting down this hill, and it's very rocky. I outran my sister... I did not feel bad about it, at the time. It was like, "I gotta leave you behind. I'm sorry!" The dog comes out and trips out my sister then comes after me. Now it's just me and the dog running, and I'm running for my life. I run into this garden, and there's this cabbage stalk there. The dog stops when I pick up this cabbage stalk and turn around ready to hit him, but because he had so much speed it was harder for him to turn around. I turn around, now that the dog has slowed down, and run back up the hill. Thankfully it was just in time for my cousin to come and stop the dog. I remember this because it's a moment that shows the laughter and joy my cousins and I used to always have. I used to hang out with my cousins so much because our houses were close to one another. We used to spend so much time together, going around to shops and eating random food, climbing trees, and stealing fruit. That one story encompasses all those memories that we made together in Kenya.
JM: That's really cool, especially that you survived that.
AK: (laughs)
JM: The next question pertains more to the future; what fields do you see yourself pursuing as a career choice later in life?
AK: This is something I'm still trying to figure out myself. I know for sure I am locked on either computer engineering or international relations. If I choose computer engineering, I would like to go back to Kenya and work with startup businesses there. I feel like right now Africa and Kenya have so much potential to advance with technology, and the cool thing now is because a lot of advances have been made with technology all over the world, there's a lot of possibility for that technology to be brought to Kenya and advanced there. Because even though most of Kenya hasn't spearheaded a lot of technological advances, we have the advantage of knowing which ones work and which ones don't. I think going to Kenya and working there would be a wonderful opportunity to incorporate technology into different systems: economic, social, governmental. I definitely want to learn computer engineering for that.
JM: Mm-hmm.
Ak: The flipside of that is international relations. I'd love to be either an ambassador or a diplomat or work at the UN or [African Union]. It's similar to that idea of expanding communication systems in Kenya. I'm very interested in discovering what role Africa has to play in the making of the global order, and I would like to interact with global leaders and see how new innovative ideas are coming from global leaders. However, right now I'm not working as much in an environment with people who look like me, and I'd like to see an environment with more people who look like me. [People] who are really able to understand how our social and cultural dynamics work.
JM: Yeah, absolutely. Looking more into international relations (IR), do you want to just comment on the summer program we recently attended at Tufts University focusing on IR?
AK: I participated in this two week program at Tufts focused on IR. In that time, I took language classes in Arabic and learned from lecturers at Tufts about international relations followed by group discussions. We covered a wide range of topics, such as negotiations, diplomacy, and security issues such as Russia and China, just to name a few. It was sort of a crash course in IR, discussing the branches throughout how we learn about the world. I really enjoyed it because I got to meet a lot of students who were really informed and passionate about the topics.
JM: Mm-hmm.
AK: I loved learning about international relations beyond just theory, right? Going beyond the what-ifs and the world of hypotheticals and learning about implications in the real world. Because to really understand what IR is, we need the knowledge to not just understand the past, but also predict the future and how that impacts people. This program definitely made me really understand the perspectives of history. For example, we delved into the perspectives of Russia and why they operate the way they do today based on what's happened in their history. The way they continue to be aggressive reflects their history of foreign invasion and aggression. That was something I've never thought about and considered, and it ties to the need to be well-informed in diplomacy. That's a long way of me saying I really enjoyed the program, and it pushed me further into interest in IR and diplomacy.
JM: That's great. I also enjoyed the program, and I'm glad you did too. Next, I want your thoughts on ideas of Pan-Africanism, and where you think they're going.
AK: I was actually having a conversation with a friend a few days ago about Marcus Garvey, him and W. E. B. Dubois. Sort of the two kick-starters of Pan-Africanism, black beauty, and black power in America. I was really thinking about how Garvey's rhetoric was kind of radical then, as he advocated for black people to be really independent, have their own states and land, and not rely on Western technology and aid. I was realizing that at the time I really looked up to Garvey, and I still do, but we were just talking about how there was collaboration between the West and the rest of the World. How there is some collaboration possible by an exchange of ideas and technology, especially. So even though that was a necessary mindset back then, under imperialism, we live in a different time and a different cultural understanding. In the modern day, it's not so much about the people doing it themselves, but it's about getting key influential allies all over the world who can collaborate to promote ideas of global equality. I do admire ideas of Pan-Africanism, and I really admire how leaders who grew up during colonialist times still had the courage to band together and demand freedom. I think that part is really understated. During that time, there were oppressive regimes that eliminated people for the most malicious reasons. These people rose up; they had the fortitude, the spirit, and planning to be able to use Western tools and allies, as well as relying on themselves, to insist that Africa rise up and that Africa has more to offer the world than just commodities and raw materials that power the global economies.
JM. Mm-hmm.
AK: We have the ability to redefine what culture is, what family is, and we share in the global culture. This is lost sometimes when we try and modernize and "Westernize." I think having that Pan-Africanist mentality is always a good reminder to always look back to your roots, as Garvey said, and embrace our identity and culture and hold on to that, and I found that very inspiring.
JM: That's very powerful. Furthering on that vein, talk about an African leader. He or she can be current or historical, but talk about an African leader that you admire and why.
AK: Finding just one is hard, is it okay if I talk about a couple that inspire me?
JM: Perfect, yeah, go ahead.
AK: I'd say that the first one who comes to find is Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia. During the 1970's, he kind of had this oppressive regime, so I just want to say I don't admire him during that time, when he created a feudal system. I do admire how he rose to power and how he fought for Ethiopian independence. He met Western military leaders and educators, and he used their systems and their advice. When the West tried to attack, specifically Italy [in 1936], he was able to fight back using the strategies he borrowed from the West and maintain independence by 1945, the end of the 2nd World War. He used the same tactics that Europe employed and was able to collaborate with the West, such as Britain and France, to fight Italy off. Selassie merged the two worlds of borrowing technology and strategy from the West while maintaining independence from the West. Ethiopia was able to survive domination by the West by using the strategies of the West. I think that worked well, so nowadays we can realize that in order for modern Africa to survive, we must maintain that spiritual coexistence but take advantage of what the rest of the world can offer us. We must use what works in other countries to better our countries. He was a pretty huge Pan-Africanist himself.
JM: Right.
AK: My other leader is Wangari Maathai of Kenya. I don't know if you know her. She won the Nobel Prize. What I love so much about her is that she tried her best to go beyond politics, and go beyond tribal or ethnic identification. She tried to create a blend of global and national identity. She was extremely concerned about the environment, so she kickstarted a movement to plant millions of trees in Kenya, and did this during a time that women in Kenya had little social power and little social authority. She is one of the leaders who throughout most of her actions I find basically no wrongdoings. She was able to surpass the temptations of money and greed. She created these practical steps towards environmental conservation, and these are steps still being used today; for example, Ethiopia just broke a world record for planting so many trees in honor of her work.
JM: Wow, I didn't know that.
AK: These are the types of leaders we need to look to, who rise above money, greed, and corruption. Also, someone to put the world above yourself. It's very easy to just say, "Oh, I'm Kikuyu, so I worry about the Kikuyu first, and I'm Kenyan, so I worry about Kenyans first, and I'm African so I worry about Africans first," and so on. We have to worry about the rest of the world to create a big change. We can't get lost in our tribal, ethnic, or national identities to help the world. In 2008, Kenya had these violent clashes around its election because of those clashing identities.
JM: Right. Well it's good you brought that up because my next question is actually what are your thoughts on the current state of politics in Kenya with Uhuru Kenyatta being president?
AK: Well, there are different aspects of Kenyan politics today. I would say I commend the steps being taken to overcome corruption in the Kenyan government. Government officials are being held more accountable by these independent inquiries and commissions, and I think this is wonderful, because just like any other African government, we have lost many of our representatives to money and greed. We would get governments with different faces but the same corruption.
JM: Right, mm-hmm.
AK: There's progress in battling corruption. I think in regards to Kenyatta and how he's doing, I'm disappointed in that sense. There's an ongoing conflict between him and Raila Odinga, the opposition leader, who Kenyatta is silencing and building more tension with his party. This has been going on since 2010, if not earlier. There have been frequent attempts to reconcile, and they always fall apart somehow. If Kenyatta allowed some opposition, some dissent, they could help reconcile Kenya. But I think Kenya is serving as a model for progress for the rest of Africa, even though I'm obviously biased in that statement.
JM: (laughs)
AK: Another thing I'm concerned about is how Chinese-Kenyan relations are going right now. You've seen China adopt this very aggressive foreign policy towards Africa, called "debt-trap diplomacy," with China offering these loans that African countries can't pay back. The Chinese use the debt they have to take natural resources and important infrastructure, such as in Madagascar. China owns 45% of Sudan's oil reserves.
JM: Wow.
AK: Angola is making so many concessions to China as well. I'm concerned and disappointed by China but also African leaders. I'm worried that they're going so far to modernize that they're not uniting and being taken advantage of. That's what we have the AU for. African leaders are rushing and getting taken advantage of by China. They should discuss this debt-trap diplomacy in the AU. They're not understanding the consequences of working with China. In the long-run, African resources and infrastructure will be controlled by China. This is a scary state, and one can argue that it's the new version of colonialism, and that's the perspective I take.
JM: You know a considerable deal about politics in Africa and Kenya, so would you ever consider going back to Kenya to be involved in politics there?
AK: Definitely. I'd love to go back to Kenya, because I love the country and my people. Because I'm in America, and I'm learning how American politics works, I'm starting to expand that to Kenya, and I'm in a privileged position where I can use what I learn to better the country I came from. I'd love to work with the new faces of Kenya and the new generation. Today, because of our global interconnectedness, we can really choose what governments we want and what works for us. History is our playground. We need to study what has worked and what has not, and use that to better the country. I think we need to expand our views and our reach with the rest of the world, and I'd love to do that for Kenya. So yeah, I'd definitely like to implement what I'm learning here in Kenya.
JM: So we can consider this your election campaign announcement?
AK: (laughs) Yes brother, yeah! Vote for Alan, 2030!
- Joseph Mullen
Joseph Mullen: My first question is what is your most vivid memory living in Kenya?
Alan Kagiri: Let's see. My cousin had a dog who was very aggressive and only listened to him. We used to play this game where he would stand on one end of the house with this dog, and we would stand on the other. He would let go of the dog, it would chase us around the house, and we would try not to be the last one back inside the house.
JM: Wow.
AK: Yeah, it was kinda like that feeling you get when you're about to go on the death-drop, or you're at the top of the rollercoaster, and we were experiencing that every ten seconds. This one time, my cousin misses the dog, and now it's no longer a game. It's a dog going to bite you. Now, no one's laughing. We're screaming and running in every direction. I run into the outdoor kitchen. I lock the door thinking I'm pretty safe. We realized, though, that the window was open, and we see the dog jump in through the window. Now we're thinking "What is one going to do?" We run through the door of the kitchen, and my sister's right behind me. The environment we lived in was kind of a hill, so we're sprinting down this hill, and it's very rocky. I outran my sister... I did not feel bad about it, at the time. It was like, "I gotta leave you behind. I'm sorry!" The dog comes out and trips out my sister then comes after me. Now it's just me and the dog running, and I'm running for my life. I run into this garden, and there's this cabbage stalk there. The dog stops when I pick up this cabbage stalk and turn around ready to hit him, but because he had so much speed it was harder for him to turn around. I turn around, now that the dog has slowed down, and run back up the hill. Thankfully it was just in time for my cousin to come and stop the dog. I remember this because it's a moment that shows the laughter and joy my cousins and I used to always have. I used to hang out with my cousins so much because our houses were close to one another. We used to spend so much time together, going around to shops and eating random food, climbing trees, and stealing fruit. That one story encompasses all those memories that we made together in Kenya.
JM: That's really cool, especially that you survived that.
AK: (laughs)
JM: The next question pertains more to the future; what fields do you see yourself pursuing as a career choice later in life?
AK: This is something I'm still trying to figure out myself. I know for sure I am locked on either computer engineering or international relations. If I choose computer engineering, I would like to go back to Kenya and work with startup businesses there. I feel like right now Africa and Kenya have so much potential to advance with technology, and the cool thing now is because a lot of advances have been made with technology all over the world, there's a lot of possibility for that technology to be brought to Kenya and advanced there. Because even though most of Kenya hasn't spearheaded a lot of technological advances, we have the advantage of knowing which ones work and which ones don't. I think going to Kenya and working there would be a wonderful opportunity to incorporate technology into different systems: economic, social, governmental. I definitely want to learn computer engineering for that.
JM: Mm-hmm.
Ak: The flipside of that is international relations. I'd love to be either an ambassador or a diplomat or work at the UN or [African Union]. It's similar to that idea of expanding communication systems in Kenya. I'm very interested in discovering what role Africa has to play in the making of the global order, and I would like to interact with global leaders and see how new innovative ideas are coming from global leaders. However, right now I'm not working as much in an environment with people who look like me, and I'd like to see an environment with more people who look like me. [People] who are really able to understand how our social and cultural dynamics work.
JM: Yeah, absolutely. Looking more into international relations (IR), do you want to just comment on the summer program we recently attended at Tufts University focusing on IR?
AK: I participated in this two week program at Tufts focused on IR. In that time, I took language classes in Arabic and learned from lecturers at Tufts about international relations followed by group discussions. We covered a wide range of topics, such as negotiations, diplomacy, and security issues such as Russia and China, just to name a few. It was sort of a crash course in IR, discussing the branches throughout how we learn about the world. I really enjoyed it because I got to meet a lot of students who were really informed and passionate about the topics.
JM: Mm-hmm.
AK: I loved learning about international relations beyond just theory, right? Going beyond the what-ifs and the world of hypotheticals and learning about implications in the real world. Because to really understand what IR is, we need the knowledge to not just understand the past, but also predict the future and how that impacts people. This program definitely made me really understand the perspectives of history. For example, we delved into the perspectives of Russia and why they operate the way they do today based on what's happened in their history. The way they continue to be aggressive reflects their history of foreign invasion and aggression. That was something I've never thought about and considered, and it ties to the need to be well-informed in diplomacy. That's a long way of me saying I really enjoyed the program, and it pushed me further into interest in IR and diplomacy.
JM: That's great. I also enjoyed the program, and I'm glad you did too. Next, I want your thoughts on ideas of Pan-Africanism, and where you think they're going.
AK: I was actually having a conversation with a friend a few days ago about Marcus Garvey, him and W. E. B. Dubois. Sort of the two kick-starters of Pan-Africanism, black beauty, and black power in America. I was really thinking about how Garvey's rhetoric was kind of radical then, as he advocated for black people to be really independent, have their own states and land, and not rely on Western technology and aid. I was realizing that at the time I really looked up to Garvey, and I still do, but we were just talking about how there was collaboration between the West and the rest of the World. How there is some collaboration possible by an exchange of ideas and technology, especially. So even though that was a necessary mindset back then, under imperialism, we live in a different time and a different cultural understanding. In the modern day, it's not so much about the people doing it themselves, but it's about getting key influential allies all over the world who can collaborate to promote ideas of global equality. I do admire ideas of Pan-Africanism, and I really admire how leaders who grew up during colonialist times still had the courage to band together and demand freedom. I think that part is really understated. During that time, there were oppressive regimes that eliminated people for the most malicious reasons. These people rose up; they had the fortitude, the spirit, and planning to be able to use Western tools and allies, as well as relying on themselves, to insist that Africa rise up and that Africa has more to offer the world than just commodities and raw materials that power the global economies.
JM. Mm-hmm.
AK: We have the ability to redefine what culture is, what family is, and we share in the global culture. This is lost sometimes when we try and modernize and "Westernize." I think having that Pan-Africanist mentality is always a good reminder to always look back to your roots, as Garvey said, and embrace our identity and culture and hold on to that, and I found that very inspiring.
JM: That's very powerful. Furthering on that vein, talk about an African leader. He or she can be current or historical, but talk about an African leader that you admire and why.
AK: Finding just one is hard, is it okay if I talk about a couple that inspire me?
JM: Perfect, yeah, go ahead.
AK: I'd say that the first one who comes to find is Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia. During the 1970's, he kind of had this oppressive regime, so I just want to say I don't admire him during that time, when he created a feudal system. I do admire how he rose to power and how he fought for Ethiopian independence. He met Western military leaders and educators, and he used their systems and their advice. When the West tried to attack, specifically Italy [in 1936], he was able to fight back using the strategies he borrowed from the West and maintain independence by 1945, the end of the 2nd World War. He used the same tactics that Europe employed and was able to collaborate with the West, such as Britain and France, to fight Italy off. Selassie merged the two worlds of borrowing technology and strategy from the West while maintaining independence from the West. Ethiopia was able to survive domination by the West by using the strategies of the West. I think that worked well, so nowadays we can realize that in order for modern Africa to survive, we must maintain that spiritual coexistence but take advantage of what the rest of the world can offer us. We must use what works in other countries to better our countries. He was a pretty huge Pan-Africanist himself.
JM: Right.
AK: My other leader is Wangari Maathai of Kenya. I don't know if you know her. She won the Nobel Prize. What I love so much about her is that she tried her best to go beyond politics, and go beyond tribal or ethnic identification. She tried to create a blend of global and national identity. She was extremely concerned about the environment, so she kickstarted a movement to plant millions of trees in Kenya, and did this during a time that women in Kenya had little social power and little social authority. She is one of the leaders who throughout most of her actions I find basically no wrongdoings. She was able to surpass the temptations of money and greed. She created these practical steps towards environmental conservation, and these are steps still being used today; for example, Ethiopia just broke a world record for planting so many trees in honor of her work.
JM: Wow, I didn't know that.
AK: These are the types of leaders we need to look to, who rise above money, greed, and corruption. Also, someone to put the world above yourself. It's very easy to just say, "Oh, I'm Kikuyu, so I worry about the Kikuyu first, and I'm Kenyan, so I worry about Kenyans first, and I'm African so I worry about Africans first," and so on. We have to worry about the rest of the world to create a big change. We can't get lost in our tribal, ethnic, or national identities to help the world. In 2008, Kenya had these violent clashes around its election because of those clashing identities.
JM: Right. Well it's good you brought that up because my next question is actually what are your thoughts on the current state of politics in Kenya with Uhuru Kenyatta being president?
AK: Well, there are different aspects of Kenyan politics today. I would say I commend the steps being taken to overcome corruption in the Kenyan government. Government officials are being held more accountable by these independent inquiries and commissions, and I think this is wonderful, because just like any other African government, we have lost many of our representatives to money and greed. We would get governments with different faces but the same corruption.
JM: Right, mm-hmm.
AK: There's progress in battling corruption. I think in regards to Kenyatta and how he's doing, I'm disappointed in that sense. There's an ongoing conflict between him and Raila Odinga, the opposition leader, who Kenyatta is silencing and building more tension with his party. This has been going on since 2010, if not earlier. There have been frequent attempts to reconcile, and they always fall apart somehow. If Kenyatta allowed some opposition, some dissent, they could help reconcile Kenya. But I think Kenya is serving as a model for progress for the rest of Africa, even though I'm obviously biased in that statement.
JM: (laughs)
AK: Another thing I'm concerned about is how Chinese-Kenyan relations are going right now. You've seen China adopt this very aggressive foreign policy towards Africa, called "debt-trap diplomacy," with China offering these loans that African countries can't pay back. The Chinese use the debt they have to take natural resources and important infrastructure, such as in Madagascar. China owns 45% of Sudan's oil reserves.
JM: Wow.
AK: Angola is making so many concessions to China as well. I'm concerned and disappointed by China but also African leaders. I'm worried that they're going so far to modernize that they're not uniting and being taken advantage of. That's what we have the AU for. African leaders are rushing and getting taken advantage of by China. They should discuss this debt-trap diplomacy in the AU. They're not understanding the consequences of working with China. In the long-run, African resources and infrastructure will be controlled by China. This is a scary state, and one can argue that it's the new version of colonialism, and that's the perspective I take.
JM: You know a considerable deal about politics in Africa and Kenya, so would you ever consider going back to Kenya to be involved in politics there?
AK: Definitely. I'd love to go back to Kenya, because I love the country and my people. Because I'm in America, and I'm learning how American politics works, I'm starting to expand that to Kenya, and I'm in a privileged position where I can use what I learn to better the country I came from. I'd love to work with the new faces of Kenya and the new generation. Today, because of our global interconnectedness, we can really choose what governments we want and what works for us. History is our playground. We need to study what has worked and what has not, and use that to better the country. I think we need to expand our views and our reach with the rest of the world, and I'd love to do that for Kenya. So yeah, I'd definitely like to implement what I'm learning here in Kenya.
JM: So we can consider this your election campaign announcement?
AK: (laughs) Yes brother, yeah! Vote for Alan, 2030!
"History is our playground." -Alan Kagiri
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