17/11/2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Institute of Pan African Studies Calls for Reflection and Accountability on the Legacy of the Berlin Conference 140 Years Later
Bloemfontein, 15th of November 2024
Today marks the 140th anniversary of the Berlin Conference, a historical event that profoundly shaped the African continent and set the stage for colonialism’s enduring impact on Africa’s socio-political and economic landscape. The Institute of Pan African Studies (IPAS) urges the international community, African leaders, and descendants of colonial powers to critically reflect on the conference’s legacy, acknowledge its impacts, and support initiatives aimed at addressing the resulting inequalities and injustices that persist to this day.
The Berlin Conference, which took place from 1884 to 1885, saw European powers carve up the African continent with little regard for its indigenous cultures, societies, and sovereignty. The conference led to the artificial drawing of borders that fractured communities, disrupted traditional governance, and paved the way for exploitation of Africa's resources. The ramifications of this division and disregard continue to reverberate, manifesting as economic dependency, social fragmentation, and political instability in various African regions.
“Africa's enduring struggles with colonial-era borders, resource exploitation, and socio-political fragmentation underscore the need for a serious reassessment of international partnerships and support for African-led development,” said David Uwah, Executive Board member of IOPAS. “The legacies of the Berlin Conference are evident today, in economic disparities, cross-border tensions, and global inequality.”
The Institute calls for renewed, equitable partnerships between African nations and former colonial powers, highlighting the need for genuine investment in African infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic empowerment. IPAS also emphasizes that restitution and reparations for historical injustices should be placed on the international agenda to enable African nations to reclaim their economic and cultural heritage.
The Institute also urges educational institutions globally to incorporate the impacts of the Berlin Conference and colonialism into curricula to foster a more nuanced understanding of Africa’s history and its global impact.
“Recognizing this 140th anniversary is not simply a call to look back, but to take actionable steps forward. African countries should have the agency to shape their futures without the ongoing shadow of colonialism,” added Larona Tsikwe, the CEO of IOPAS.
IOPAS will be hosting a series of webinars and discussions throughout the year, inviting scholars, policymakers, and activists to explore pathways toward restitution, sustainable development, and the preservation of African heritage.
For more information on these events and to participate in ongoing discussions, please contact [email protected]
