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Prof. Wole Soyinka, a Nobel Prize winner, expressed that slavery, in its contemporary form, persists on the African continent.
He shared this insight over the weekend at an event hosted by Providus Bank in Lagos to celebrate World Poetry Day.
The program was curated by Jahman Anikulapo, a former Sunday Editor of The Guardian and an advocate for culture.
In honoring World Poetry Day, UNESCO acknowledges the distinct capacity of poetry to encapsulate the creative essence of human thought.
This year’s theme was “Sand Dune and Ocean Bed: The Template of Dispersal.”
Soyinka remarked: “Cuba serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic elements of our history on the African continent, and it also ignites the reminder that the struggle is far from over; the distortion known as slavery continues to pervade not just externally, but also within the African continent,” referencing the notable involvement of Cubans in this year’s Lagos event.
He continued, “Migration manifests in various ways, from voluntary movements to violent forced migration that start, progress, and conclude with no choice. Thus, the global acknowledgment of the severe damage inflicted upon the African continent, the epicenter of slavery, exemplifies the despicable tendency of humanity to subjugate others.”
Soyinka noted, “European culture and civilization have greatly benefited, far beyond common recognition, from the African continent. The manner in which this cultural exchange unfolded is laden with suffering. Yet, it also serves as a testament to humanity’s resilience.”
He emphasized, “When we discuss dispersal, which slave trade and slavery share with migration, we must reflect on its origins, not merely where it starts, but how it unfolds,” Soyinka asserted.
