Destroy their Tongue and Identity so that they will Never build the House: Language, Identity and (Under)development of Africa

Abstract

This paper examines two main themes in Africa’s culture--- Language and Identity and how the disarticulations of both have led to the underdevelopment of the continent. The study adopts a qualitative methodology, using the historical approach and post- colonial state thesis as the basis of analysis. It argued that the underdevelopment of Africa is hinged on bastardisation done to the twin of language and identity being two germane parts of its culture through the early contact between Africa and Europeans in the form of slave trade and colonialism which continued in the post-colonial state through neocolonialism. The paper found that in spite of the interventions from stakeholders from the global, regional levels down to individual level in responding to these crises, these interventions are dictated by western powers, lack proper framework and atomistic as well as lack the political will. The paper recommends among other things that there is need for an Africa reinvention on what works for us, recalibration of our identity, cultural values and moors through conscientious education.