Why does a continent rich in resources struggle to translate growth into development? This episode examines Africa’s economic history before and after independence, tracing the shift from productive, self-sustaining economies to systems structured around extraction and dependency. By exploring pre-colonial production, colonial economic restructuring, and post-independence development strategies, the discussion reveals how historical disruptions and global inequalities continue to shape African economic outcomes. This episode offers essential context for understanding Africa’s ongoing struggle for economic sovereignty and sustainable growth.

Before colonial borders, before national anthems, and before the flags of foreign empires were raised, Africa governed itself. This episode challenges the familiar tendency to begin African political history at the moment of disruption. It turns instead to the systems of power, leadership, and legitimacy that existed long before colonization.

As part of the commemoration of Black History Month, this episode seeks to restore historical clarity. It asks what was interrupted when colonial rule arrived, what lessons were lost, and how Africa’s political inheritance continues to shape the present. To understand African leadership today, we must first understand the power that existed before it was displaced.

Pursuit is the proof of desire because longing alone is quiet, but movement is loud. In the act of stepping forward, again and again, we reveal what truly matters to us.