Colonialism in Africa brought an erosion of identity for the Africans. They were taught to abhor anything that were aliened in their immediate surroundings. It resulted in Africans being assimilated into the European way of doing things.
Africa was distanced from its own culture and own identity. The effect of this was a continent devoid of one rallying point for any development. The people of Africa were stripped of their heritage and left with no opportunity to rediscover their true identity.
The only way the continent can progress is when people have one voice, one objective and one vision. This is why there is a need to celebrate local cultures more and not denigrate it so that there is a sense of purpose, and a true sense of belonging. When Africans behind fully celebrating out majestic cultures, they become fully aware of their prowess and development is fostered.
Colonialism came with the aim of distorting local cultures and identities. But the time is now on us to fully reclaim our glory and set out on the path to many riches. The whole continent is respendlent with glorious cultures that resemble true African identities.
By appreciating our cultures, we get a true sense of the history behind th3m. And it is only by learning our own history that we can be able to root out the causes of our current problems. By celebrating our cultures, we make our history more Afrocentric.
Africa still has a long way to go when it comes to putting African Cultures in the same wavelength that European history and languages are celebrated. Then and only then can the continent be in full control of its fate.
The generations to come need to know of how impressive African cultures are. And in this sense, there is a feeling that the African is relatable with his surroundings, and not feel alienated.
The continent has loads of potential in all aspects of life and these can be come to our full knowledge when we really come to terms with our identity.
Each and every African should know more about African cultures through the various education systems put in place.
There has been an over-emphasis on European culture and history in our education, and policy makers need to put this to a halt.
Header image credit - Rhino Africa