Humanities & Social Sciences
6th Mashariki Conference Opens with call for Further Engagement with Communities
The 6th Mashariki (Eastern Africa) Literary and Cultural Studies Conference got underway on Thursday 24th August, 2023 at the Yusuf Lule Auditorium with a call by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MoGLSD) for further engagement between Makerere University and the communities for which the institution produces knowledge. The call was made by Mr. Benard Mujuni, Commissioner Equity and Rights, MoGLSD, who represented his Permanent Secretary, Mr. Aggrey Kibenge.
“I would be happy to see how this knowledge transforms especially vulnerable and disadvantaged communities and groups” remarked Mr. Mujuni, before adding “We can work together to bring this to pass at such platforms as these.”
An author in his own right, the Chief Guest paid tribute to his alma mater, Makerere University, for nurturing his writing gift. Only the evening prior to appearing as Chief Guest at the 6th Mashariki Conference, Mr. Mujuni had launched his Anthology of Past and Contemporary African Life titled RABBIT ON THE PULPIT to a packed audience at the National Theatre. Therefore, he could not help but appreciate how timely and appropriate the opportunity to represent his Permanent Secretary was, for he felt well at home in the company of his own.
Mr. Mujuni shared that transformation of communities is at the heart of MoGLSD’s mission, which it achieves by promoting cultural values and ethics. “Makerere University through the Mashariki Literary and Cultural Studies Association is actively carrying out the Ministry’s mission.”
He therefore paid tribute to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe for his able leadership that has enabled the arts and humanities to thrive. “The creative force put into conferences requires people who feel close to the institution. You and Management have done this job well.”
In the same breath, he thanked the Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), Prof. Josephine Ahikire for consistently preaching the gospel that the humanities and social sciences are here to stay. “The creativity, debates and conversations around real life experiences here is one of those platforms you have created and keep in place for the betterment of our community.”
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe informed the audience that Makerere’s historic association with the University of East Africa among other milestones had brought to the fore the value of partnerships. “It is these partnerships that foster the kind of interactions and research we would like to see in our 21st century University, especially as we move toward a research-led University.”
On this note, Prof. Alinaitwe thanked the 6th Mashariki collaborators namely: the Department of African Literature at the University of the Witswatersrand, the University of Nairobi and the University of Dar es Salaam, and the Goethe Zentrum Kampala for their contributions to making the conference a success. He equally applauded Prof. Josephine Ahikire for ably leading the College. “I am truly aware of the meaning of the mantra CHUSS on the Move each time I am invited to these events.”
Basking in the light of accolades pouring forth toward her College, the Principal, Prof. Josephine Ahikire could not help but express how proud CHUSS was to be prominent in the 6th Mashariki conversation. This conversation, she noted, is focused on discussing the material, intellectual , spiritual, cultural and literary conditions that have shaped and driven the literary and cultural terrain of the Eastern African region. “We are happy that we are increasingly sitting at the table to talk about us, about what makes us tick and what we need to improve or perhaps evaluate in our journey going forward.”
More importantly, Prof. Ahikire was happy that the 6th Mashariki sets out to pose pertinent questions about the direction of literary and cultural debates and policies fundamental to Uganda’s and indeed, the region’s existence. “I am happy that in the spirit of the humanities and social sciences, we are not afraid to ask questions that will make us look into our inner selves as well as our surrounding to build for the future.”
The Dean, School of Languages, Literature and Communication (SLLC), Prof. Saudah Namyalo commended the Department of Literature for organising the Conference, which fits well into the School’s aim to promote interdisciplinary work, interuniversity activities and outreach programmes. SLLC had only days prior, from 15th to 16th August 2023 hosted the 3rd Language Association of Eastern Africa (LAEA) Conference under the theme Empowering Communities through Langauge Research & Teaching for Sustainable Development.
Prof. Namyalo concluded by noting that Literary and cultural studies as subjects are part and parcel of our daily lives for they address our problems and joys and assess them. The 6th Mashariki Conference, she added, was clear demonstration that Literary and cultural studies are subjects that allow us to discuss and dispense ideas.
The 6th Mashiriki Conference opening ceremony was not only about sharing official statements but also an opportunity to showcase the humaneness of the arts and humanities. The Chair, Mashariki Board, Prof. Grace A Musila used her slot at the podium as an opportunity to pay tribute to great authors who have since transitioned to the life beyond. They included; Nigerian writer, Bankole Ajibabi Omotoso popularly known as Kole Omotoso who passed away on 19th July 2023 and Kenyan playwright, Mĩcere Gĩthae Mũgo who passed away on 30th June 2023. Others showcased in the presentation that was musically backed by distinct African melodies and plucking strings were; Ugandan writer, John Nagenda who passed away on 4th March 2023 and Ghanaian author, Ama Ata Aidoo who passed away on 31st May 2023.
Speaking on behalf of the 6th Mashariki Conference Local Organising Committee (LOC), Dr. Susan Kiguli could not hide her joy, enthusiasm and gratitude at seeing the seats in the auditorium lined with guests from the various institutions invited. She was further elated that Makerere was the first institution to host the Mashariki Conference twice, the first having been the 2nd Edition in August 2015.
The inaugural Mashariki Conference was held at the University of Nairobi, Kenya in September 2013, while the 3rd was held at the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in August 2017. Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia hosted the 4th in August 2019 and Moi University, Kenya hosted the 5th in September, 2021.
She therefore thanked Prof. Grace Musila, Dr. Tom Odhiambo and Mr. Parselelo Kantai for choosing Makerere to host the 6th Mashariki Conference, and the Head, Department of Literature, Dr. Edgar Nabutanyi for assigning her the responsibility to chair the LOC.
The highlight of the opening ceremony was the keynote address by Gulu University’s Prof. Charles Okumu, whose lighthearted delivery insightfully led participants down the path of The Life and Times of Okot p’Bitek: Structured Biography and Excursions into his Creative Writings.
The event was further lit up by performances of students of literature and students of performing arts and film. While the former acted out Edict 1: New Nomenclature and the troubled African state, in light of the political turbulence by Timothy Wangusa, the latter led the audience through the Ugandan, East African and Makerere University anthems.
Please click the video below to view proceedings of the 6th Mashariki Conference Opening Ceremony
Humanities & Social Sciences
Symposium on Pan-Africanism and Reparatory Justice Ignites Debate on African Unity and Decolonisation of Systems
By Charles Iga and Ritah Namisango
On 21st May 2026, candid discussions and reflections on the dignity and survival of the African people took centre stage as Pan-Africanists, youths, global diaspora leaders, esteemed royals, and scholars, convened at Makerere University, for the Inter-University Symposium on Pan-Africanism and Reparatory Justice.
Held ahead of the Africa Day Celebrations on 25th May 2026, the Symposium with over 23 participating Universities re-awakened the spirit of Pan-Africanism, African Unity, and the need to defend the dignity and the future of the African People.
The different speakers, panelists and participants rallied African nations to demand for reparation from those who dehumised the African people through slaverly, torture, conolialism, and any form of injustice.
“Pan-Africanism is about survival, dignity and power. It’s the understanding that Africa’s problems cannot be solved in isolation. It has a huge diaspora. It has to be holistic. Division is our greatest weakness. Unity is our strongest weapon,” said Chief Eric Phillips, the Keynote Speaker at the Inter-University African Symposium hosted by Makerere University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences, in partnership with the Pan Afican Fraternity in Uganda, CARICOM, and AIDO International Network.
This is global citizenry in action
Opening the symposium on behalf of Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Henry Alinaitwe described the gathering as a historic convergence of global African identity.
“As we gather in the Makerere University MainHall, we are deeply honoured to host distinguished delegates from across Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and the wider global African diaspora,” Prof. Alinaitwe said.
He added, it is a meeting of minds, cultures, generations, and visions committed to shaping Africa’s collective future, emphasizing that African liberation must extend beyond political independence into economic and intellectual sovereignty.
“This symposium is happening at a critical moment in global history when Africa and people of African descent are redefining their place in a multipolar world,” he said.
Makerere re-affirms role as Pan-African Intellectual Hub
Re-affirming Makerere University as a critical centre for intellectual liberation and African-centred knowledge production, Prof. Alinaitwe noted that the struggle for African liberation continues through economic sovereignty, reparatory justice, cultural dignity, and decolonisation of knowledge systems.
He tipped the students that the future of Pan-Africanism will be shaped by their ideas, courage, and innovation.
Humanities hold the key to transformation
Citing the theme of the Symposium, Pan-African Intellectualism: The Urgency to Defend the Dignity and Future of the African People, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Makerere University, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, stressed the central role of African scholarship in social transformation.
“Our presence here reflects the urgency of defending the dignity and future of African people through knowledge,” Prof. Nkabala said.
She added, “Humanities and Social Sciences are vital for social transformation because without those disciplines, there can never be societal change. The humanities and social sciences hold the key to understanding society and reshaping it.”
The issue of reparations is central
The Deputy Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Eric Awich Ochen, reiterated the African voices on the need for reparation. “In December 2025, I represented Makerere University at the African Diaspora Summit in Accra, Ghana. The President of the Republic of Ghana, and the President of the Republic of Togo, spoke very strongly about the issue of reparation justice,” he said.
“When we talk about reparation. Africa suffered from slavery and a lot of injustices during that period. Those responsible for that kind of injustice to us, may need to find away of making some compensation to Africa,” said Prof. Awich Ochen.
Inter-University Symposium kicks off the Africa Week celebrations
In a very special way, Dr Sarah Hasaba, the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee for the Pan-African Liberation Week (21st to 25th May 2026) welcomed the participants who had travelled from the different parts of the world and within Uganda, to be part of the 5th Inter-University Symposium.
“As we celebrate the 63rd Africa Liberation day, we are honoured to start with the Inter-University symposium at Makerere University. As we engage in dialogue today, let us exchange ideas and build strategic partnerships. May this symposium be an opportunity for practical solutions, strong collaboration, and renewed commitment to the Pan-African vision of unity and transformation,” remarked Dr. Hasaba.
The Youth are an integral pillar of the Pan-African agenda
Her Highness Dr Queen Grace Eganda, was delighted to return to Makerere University, where her academic and leadership potential was nurtured in the 1990s. During that time, she was privileged to have served as the Chairlady of Mary Stuart Hall, and happy to return to Makerere University, in the capacity of a global leader, and General Secretary of AIDO Network International.
Emphasizing the importance of the symposium, she said: “This is a significant moment because we are looking at a bridge between the past and the present. As we reflect on the journey of Pan-Africanism, we are looking at our historical realities, present situations, and exploring how do we move forward progressively. We are working with the youth and the academia to promote the Pan-Africanism agenda.”
Underscoring the role of the youth, the Queen articulated: “ Any space where there’s no youth, any organization or planning where there is no youth is a dying moment. We are therefore encouraged to see many brilliant young people participating in the Symposium, we are passing the baton, the future is bright, and where we end, we know that the fire will keep burning.”
Building partnerships and promoting collaboration
With nostalgia, the President of AIDO Network International, and Chairman of the Global Africa Diaspora Kingdom, His Highness Papa, Dr Paul Jones Eganda, was pleased to return to Makerere University.
“In the 1990s, I was at this great University. I stayed in Lumumba Hall. Today, I come back, not as a student, but as a King and global leader with over 2.5 million followers globally,” he said amidst applause from the audience.
He informed the audience that the delegation consisted of 70 royals and key personalities who travelled to Uganda to participate in the activities of the Africa Liberation Week. “Some of them have remained at Speke Resort Munyonyo because the Head of State, H.E President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is launching the Uganda Tourism Expo. Some of us have made it to Makerere University, to participate in the Inter-University symposium,” he remarked.
His Highness Papa Dr Eganda said the AIDO Network International and the Inter-University Symposium, present to the African people, a platform to strengthen partnerships and collaboration, undertake joint research, and advocate for scholarships.
“We are here to listen and learn from each other, and build partnerships. We would like to promote inter-university collaborations, research opportunities, and scholarships,” he stated.
In a very special way, he recognized Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye and Lieutenant Gen. Amanda Magambo, for their commitment to the Pan-Africanism agenda.
Keynote Speech on Pan-Africanism and Reparation
A sense of quiet reflection and re-awakening was evident as the Keynote Speaker, Chief Eric Phillips, passionately shared his views about Pan-Africanism and reparation.
Highlighting the roots of Pan-Africanism, he said: “Before borders were drawn, before Africa was divided in Berlin, before the world told us who we were, Africans were already connected by culture, by trade, by identity and by civilization. But then came slavery, colonization, and the forced scattering of millions of Africans across the world.”
The keynote speaker articulated that from that pain, Pan-Africanism was born-starting in the hearts of enslaved Africans who refused to forget who they were.
“Today, the chains may look different, economic dependency, mental colonization. But the mission of Pan-Africanism remains the same. A united Africa is not a dream. It’s a necessity,” he emphasized.
Geopolitics of Reparatory Justice
The Keynote Speaker informed the participants that the geopolitics of reparatory justice is not often spoken about, yet it impacts people of Africans daily.
“European nations do not want to pay financial reparations. Financial reparations have been paid to the Jewish nation, the Japanese, and to many other people across the world. But when it comes to reparations for people of African descent, there seems to be a resistance, a denial, as if they still consider us as not being human,” he wondered.
Panel on Pan-Africanism and Intellectualism
Moderated by Callistus Mubangizi, the panel consisted of the following discussants: Dr. George Okiror-Makerere University, Department of Political Science and Public Administration, the Keynote Speaker-Chief Eric Phillips, Prof.Eria Hisali-Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences, Associate Professor Robert Ojiambo- Department of History, Archaeology, and Heritage at Kyambogo University, and Dr. Shadat Semakula from Canada.
The discourse indicated that Intellectualism still continues to be the basis upon which Pan-Africanism lives. The panel tackled the relevance of Pan-African intellectualism as the framework for addressing structural inequalities and neocolonialism, as well as, the need for a unified African-led development.
Reparatory Justice is about Dignity, Not Only Money
Throughout the symposium, scholars and activists repeatedly emphasised that reparatory justice must go beyond financial compensation. “Reparations is not just about money. It is about restoring dignity, identity, truth, education, land, psychology, and institutions.”
It was crystal clear that reparatory justice must begin with us. “We cannot ask for reparations while abandoning our languages, our knowledge systems, and our identity. Reparatory justice must begin internally.”
We Lost Kingdoms, Artifacts, and Memory
Dr Davidson Amooti, representing Bunyoro cultural and administrative structures, gave a deeply historical account of colonial-era losses. “On behalf of Bunyoro Kingdom, we lost 2.5 million human beings during colonial wars,” he said.
Additionally, “We also lost more than 3,000 artifacts. The British government could not allow me to access museums and libraries. I had to go to court to obtain permission.”
Dr Amooti called for structured documentation and legal action. “We must mobilise every citizen in our cultural institutions for development. We cannot keep begging. We must research, document, and sign agreements.”
Education is not neutral
Dr Zaid Sekito, Lecturer in the Department of History, Archaeology & Heritage Studies at Makerere University, reframed reparatory justice as an educational and intellectual process.
“Reparatory justice is a pedagogical practice. We must understand what was destroyed, how it was destroyed, and how to rebuild it,” he said.
He highlighted that education systems continue to shape consciousness. “The classroom is not neutral. Even today’s curriculum is not neutral.”
Dr Sekito urged students to take leadership in transformation. “You have the power to influence institutional change. Youth movements have always been at the centre of African transformation.”
We must transform education and mindset
Speakers consistently called for curriculum reform and African-centred education. Some of the proposed reforms included: Introducing African-centred history from primary school; funding African research; supporting African languages; and building exchange programs with the diaspora.
A critical analysis indicated that colonial education was designed to produce obedience, not freedom. “Africans must now design education for liberation.”
Reparations requires Organisation, Not Rhetoric
Tackling this pertinent issue, the panelists and participants agreed as follows:
- Pan-Africanism must move beyond conferences into action. Any plan is dependent upon discipline and execution.
- Reparations will not be achieved by governments alone. It requires organised people, informed people, and committed youth.
- CARICOM’s reparations agenda did not happen by chance. It happened because people organised, studied, and persisted.
You are the Next Movement
Dr Hilary Brown urged young Africans to take ownership of the Pan-African struggle. “To the young brother who asked, ‘What next?’ — you are the next,” she said. “The movement needs scholars, lawyers, journalists, musicians, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs. Everybody has a role.”
Therefore, “I request you to form reading circles, join Pan-African organisations, document your histories, engage leaders, and build networks across borders.”
Unity between Africa and its diaspora
The convening emphasised unity between Africa and its diaspora. “Africa and her diaspora are one people—different histories, but one destiny. Pan-Africanism is not an event. It is a lifelong commitment.”
The symposium that included cultural performances, and a session on promoting a “drug free world” concluded with renewed calls for youth engagement, research collaboration, and institutional reform across Africa and the diaspora. The symposium also marked the official launch of Pan-African Week activities leading to Africa Day 2026, reinforcing calls for research-driven advocacy, continental unity, and structured reparatory justice frameworks.
-
Agriculture & Environment1 week agoTribute To Professor Abwoli Yabezi Banana (1951–2026)
-
General6 days agoFreshers’ Joining Instructions 2026/2027
-
General1 week agoSylas Ruhweza: A Brief Life Marked by Meaningful Accomplishments
-
General1 week agoHundreds attend Sylas Ruhweza’s Requiem Mass
-
General1 week agoMakerere University Pushes for Stronger Support for Research Ethics Committees amid Growing Research Demands