Interview with Tanignigui Siriki Soro on Pan-Africanism

 Tanignigui Siriki Soro | Contributor on politics-related Topics

Oredy: Thank you for joining us today. To begin, could you kindly introduce yourself and elaborate on your connection to Pan-Africanism?

Tanignigui Soro: Thank you for the warm welcome. My name is Tanignigui Siriki Soro, and I hail from Côte d’Ivoire. I possess a broad vision for the African continent, underpinned by my academic background in International Business and Trade. Currently, I serve as the CEO of Bright African Elite, an institute dedicated to providing holistic educational programs for individuals of all ages.

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I am also an activist deeply engaged in African studies and the principles of Pan-Africanism. Over the years, I have devoted myself to extensive reading, delivering lectures, authoring writings, and conducting research focused on both historical and contemporary movements that champion the unity and empowerment of African peoples, both on the continent and in the diaspora.

Oredy: That sounds fascinating! For those who may not be familiar, how would you define Pan-Africanism?

Tanignigui Soro: Pan-Africanism is the principle of unity among all people of African descent, regardless of their geographical location.

It encompasses a political, cultural, and social movement aimed at strengthening the bonds between African nations and peoples, advocating for their rights, and addressing the legacies of colonialism and racism. Essentially, it seeks to promote solidarity and collective action to uplift Africa and its diaspora.

Oredy: What role did European colonization play in the emergence of Pan-Africanism?

European colonization played a critical role in the emergence of Pan-Africanism by creating artificial national borders and disrupting traditional social structures, which led to widespread oppression and exploitation of African people.

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The shared experiences of colonial rule fostered a collective consciousness among Africans and the diaspora, highlighting the need for solidarity and a unified front against colonial powers. This shared struggle against oppression laid the foundation for the Pan-African movement.

Oredy: What historical events or figures do you think were pivotal in shaping the Pan-African movement?

Tanignigui Soro: There are several key figures and events that significantly influenced the movement. For instance, Marcus Garvey, a Jamaican political leader, promoted the idea of African self-determination and economic independence in the early 20th century.

The Pan-African Congresses, which began in 1900, were also crucial in bringing together leaders and intellectuals from across the globe to discuss issues affecting people of African descent. Other notable figures include W.E.B. Du Bois, Kwame Nkrumah, and Julius Nyerere, Thomas Sankara who all contributed to the discourse on Pan-Africanism in various ways.

Oredy: In your opinion, how has Pan-Africanism evolved over the years?

Tanignigui Soro: Pan-Africanism has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially focused on political independence and the fight against colonialism, it has expanded to address issues such as economic development, cultural identity, and social justice.

In recent years, the movement has also embraced contemporary challenges, such as climate change, gender equality, and the impact of globalization on African nations. The rise of technology and social media has enabled a new generation of activists to connect and collaborate across borders, creating a more inclusive and diverse Pan-African movement.

Oredy: What do you see as the main challenges facing the Pan-African movement today?

Tanignigui Soro: One of the primary challenges is the political fragmentation within Africa itself. Many countries face internal conflicts, corruption, and governance issues that hinder collective progress.

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Additionally, there is often a lack of unity among the African diaspora, which can dilute the impact of Pan-African initiatives. Economic disparities and the influence of neo-colonial forces also pose significant obstacles to achieving true unity and self-determination.

Orey: How do you envision the future of Pan-Africanism?

Tanignigui Soro: I believe the future of Pan-Africanism is promising, especially with the growing awareness of global interconnectedness. As We, the younger generations become more engaged in activism and advocacy, I see a renewed commitment to unity and collaboration among African nations and the diaspora.

Initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 are steps in the right direction. However, achieving the vision of Pan-Africanism will require sustained effort, solidarity, and a focus on addressing both historical injustices and contemporary challenges.

Oredy: Thank you so much for your insights, Tanignigui Siriki Soro, Is there anything else you would like to add?

Tanignigui Soro: I would just like to emphasize the importance of education and awareness in promoting Pan-Africanism. By understanding our shared history and collective struggles, we can better appreciate the value of unity and work towards a brighter future for all people of African descent. Thank you for this opportunity to discuss such an important topic.

Oredy: Thank you, Tanignigui Siriki Soro, for your valuable perspectives on Pan-Africanism. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.

Tanignigui Soro: Thank you! It was a pleasure to be here.

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