Peace for the Mzee
Cameron Duodu should write a book about people whose minds were liberated by Basil Davidson’s recasting of history, says Okello Oculi.
I have just immensely enjoyed reading Cameron Doudu's tribute to Basil Davidson. Like him, I wish the Mzee – who is now in what Ali Mazrui has called ‘AFTER AFRICA’ – peace and pride in his contribution to intellectual freedom and the enjoyment of profound dignity for post-colonial Africans.
I wish to suggest that Mr Doudu goes on a safari of editing a 'wake-keeping' book for Basil Davidson. In Nigeria when an old man dies – especially one who had served his family and community well – there is no shedding of tears but a beating of drums and celebration with throwing an owambe party. For a start, he should rope in all the persons he mentioned whose minds were liberated by Basil Davidson's recasting of history in the service of African humanity. Pambazuka should publish this work.
This safari should be done to yield a series; to go with a book on Professor Cheik Anta Diop.