Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has asserted that modern slavery is still very much alive on the African continent. He shared these insights at a recent event organized by Providus Bank to celebrate World Poetry Day in Lagos.
The program was curated by Jahman Anikulapo, former Sunday Editor of The Guardian and a member of the Culture Advocates Caucus.In honoring World Poetry Day, UNESCO highlighted the unique power of poetry to encapsulate the creative essence of humanity.
The theme for this year’s celebration was “Sand Dune and Ocean Bed: The Template of Dispersal.”Soyinka remarked, “Cuba represents both a tragic reminder of our history in Africa and a catalyst for recognizing that the fight against the aberration of slavery continues.
It exists not only externally but also internally within African societies.” He emphasized the significance of Cuban participation in this event.He elaborated on migration, stating, “Migration comes in various forms, including voluntary migration and violent dispersal that lacks any choice or agency at all.
This underscores the widespread acknowledgment of the grievous impact of slavery on the African continent, which remains a core part of this dark aspect of human history.
Soyinka also reflected on the profound influence of African culture on European civilization, noting, “European culture owes a significant debt to Africa, more than is often recognized.
The path of this cultural exchange has been one of suffering, yet it also highlights human resilience.
He urged reflection on the concept of dispersal, linking it closely to slavery and migration. “We must consider how dispersal begins—not simply where, but how it unfolds,” Soyinka concluded.
PROF’LEE9JA⛱️ MEDIA
Follow 👣our WhatsApp Channel to get the 🔔 latest of news delivered at ur door 🚪⬇https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VazTO6AFnSzIbWYJjO1K
Telegram Channel
