Faces and Phases of Colonialism in Africa

There is a spectre of anger and disgust surrounding oppressive, inhumane and exploitative practices that have been perpetrated by some against others throughout human history. This anger goes beyond the attendant psychological, economic and political damage to include the significant psychological burden it bears on those who are not direct victims but acknowledge such practices as horrendous and empathize as a result. For Africans and its descendants throughout the world, there is a spectre of subjugation that lives on in the continent and within African communities that is not always obvious even in its most overt forms. This spectre goes by the name colonialism or imperialism, runs through different channels and benefits from the complicity of individuals, groups, governments, corporations and institutions. So many centuries have passed since exploitation, domination and subjugation first began on the continent by people from far-flung territories. While such adventures are theoretically known to be a thing of the past, its practices are far from being over. Through acts of unprecedented suspicion, imperialism established itself by imposing new rules, principles and ways of life that force people to regress and turn in circles on the same spot. The official independence of African countries was seen as a source of hope by many, but this too was sullied at its inception and the redemption of both the hunted and the hunter now hangs on a balance.