Africans. Wakandans. All BLACK PANTHERS
I have waited forever to see the latest film by Marvel’s Cinematic Universe: Black Panther and it didn’t disappoint.
Just to be sure, I saw it twice.
Welcome to Wakanda.
Wakanda is a ‘fictional’ technologically advanced country in East Africa, which was never colonized and possesses the hardest and most unique material in the world; Vibranium. This has enabled Wakanda stay ahead of the rest of the world in transportation, weapons development, research and medical innovation.
Conscious of the conflicts in the world (WW1), Wakanda remains hidden, steering clear of international disputes, while closing its borders to all non-Wakandans.
The Black Panther is T’Challa, the sovereign leader of Wakanda who inherited the title after the death of his father King T’Chaka. His powers come from the consumption of the ‘heart shaped herb’ (which gives him superhuman strength and senses) , Wakanda’s wealth and technology and his ancestral connection to past Black Panthers. He is protected by a group of fierce, elite female guards; The Dora Milaje.
As the world is changing and increasingly becoming more divided, Wakandans must decide whether to continue with isolationism or stepping out to play a greater role in the outside world.
I believe Black Panther is not just a movie, it’s a movement.
Increasingly the media response to this movie has been on how the film is ‘mainstream’ black, features a pre-dominantly black cast, or its successful global sales of over $1bn.
I think this misses the point. I am writing this piece to understand the significance of this movie, for Africa.
What is important is a re-awakening of our shared African cultural identity/true history, offering a chance to learn the lessons of the past and embrace the challenges of defining our own wonderful future.
This movie was significant to me because of:
1. Culture: The conscious emphasis on African culture, bereft of false and negative stereotype. This included artefacts such as IsiXhosa language, cultural masks and attire. Interestingly, the letters and characters in T’Challa’s throne room and on his clothes were inspired by Nsibidi; the ancient writing system of Southern Nigeria.
2. Strong female roles: Contrary to the usual superhero narrative, the Black Panther leads with the support of others, especially the Wakandan women. Who play leading roles in military, government, and science
3. Unifying experience for black people all over the world #Wakandaforever
4. Technology: Nanotechnology, Augmented Reality(AR), Hyperloop trains, energy harnessing and storage, Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL)
Its interesting to note that these attributes of Wakanda were also reflected in ancient Africa.
For example:
-Timbuktu (Mali) was the Paris of the Ancient world, and a seat of cultural, philosophical and scientific learning.
-The Dora Milaje draw inspiration from the Dahomey Amazons(Mino). A well trained female fighting force in present day Republic of Benin.
-Great achievements in science across Maths, Astronomy, Engineering and Architecture and Metallurgy (see below)
This shared heritage got me thinking.
What do we need to do to transform Africa into Wakanda?
In 4 words: Good Governance, Partnership, Industrialization, and Education.
In more words:
- Good Governance: Transparency, Service and Accountability
- Peace and Security
- Infrastructure that connect African cities and countries: Power, Transportation, ICT
- Strategic focus on Science and Technology
- Youth employment opportunities through the creation of mega industries such as manufacturing
- Education
- Effective Education to Employment Schemes: Apprenticeship/Internship schemes
Wakanda is a dream of a stronger, peaceful and technologically advanced Africa. Our drive and commitment can help us achieve this dream, if we believe, hold on, and never give up, no matter the odds.
Wakandaforever
UPDATE
You can read other articles on Nigeria and Africa: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Nigeria EndSars Protest, Solar Energy Nigeria Series, and theNigeria YouWin Scheme.
Notes
· http://www.asbmb.org/asbmbtoday/asbmbtoday_article.aspx?id=32437
· https://qz.com/1210704/black-panthers-african-cultures-and-influences/
· http://www.vulture.com/2018/02/5-black-panther-comics-to-read-before-you-see-the-movie.html
· https://www.cinemablend.com/news/2314551/10-black-panther-comics-to-read-after-seeing-the-movie
