This archive report was first published on 10 October 2019.
On October 10, 2019, the world witnessed a significant step towards healing historical wounds as Rwanda repealed laws left over from German and Belgian colonial rule, designed to separate the races and subjugate the black population.
These laws, which allowed for official racial segregation and enabled the Catholic church to own vast tracts of land, are a stark reminder of the dark legacy of colonialism in Africa.
But Rwanda's move is not an isolated incident. Across the continent, colonial laws continue to haunt the justice systems, perpetuating structural injustices and racism.
Take, for instance, the infamous 'witchcraft' laws that were used to prosecute and ban African cultural practices under the guise of witchcraft. These laws, like many others, were ingeniously designed to allow colonial governments to maintain control over the indigenous population.
Today, some of these laws still linger in African statutes, carrying prison terms and perpetuating the suffering of the poor. The 'being a rogue and vagabond' and 'being idle and disorderly' laws are just a few examples of the many colonial relics that continue to haunt the continent.
So, what's behind the persistence of these laws? The answer lies in the thoroughness of the colonial enterprise's educational systems, which have left a lasting impact on post-independence governments. The replacement of racial segregation by class has also contributed to the perpetuation of these laws, as some oppressed people often end up imitating the culture of the oppressor, desiring power over others.
It's time for Africa to confront its colonial past and work towards a future where every student learns about the system built on inequality and racism. By doing so, we can begin to break free from the shackles of mental slavery and forge a new path towards true freedom and equality.
