Politics & Governance / Political Philosophy & Theory / Power & Governance Theory

How African Architecture SHAPES Power, Identity & Resistance

Architecture and Politics in Africa: Making, Living and Imagining Identities through Buildings

Joanne Tomkinson, Daniel Mulugeta, Julia Gallagher

Think buildings are just bricks and mortar? Think again. In Africa, architecture is a fierce battleground for power, identity, and control. This deep dive, inspired by the groundbreaking book "Architecture and Politics in Africa: Making, Living and Imagining Identities through Buildings," edited by Joanne Tomkinson, Daniel Mulugeta, and Julia Gallagher, shatters the myth of neutral structures.Discover how leaders use monumental projects—from Ethiopia's global airport to Ghana's controversial national cathedral—to project national pride or consolidate power, often navigating complex dependencies on foreign aid. See how China's "gift" of Malawi's parliament came with hidden costs, and how Ghana's ambitious housing plans fell victim to colonial-era reliance.Then, explore how everyday citizens *live* within these political landscapes. Uncover the stark contrast between the glittering facades and decaying interiors of Ivory Coast's grand buildings, revealing a fragile state. Witness how a Zimbabwe shopping mall subtly reinforces colonial-era segregation. Learn about the courageous efforts to decolonize knowledge in Kenya's historic libraries, and the chilling truth of how seemingly innocuous architectural elements in South Africa were weaponized for violence and to conceal crimes during apartheid.This video will transform how you see every building, revealing the hidden political narratives, power struggles, and human stories etched into Africa's built environment. It's a must-watch for anyone wanting to understand the true complexities of African nations beyond simplistic headlines.