On the second day of our journey in observing Kwanzaa, we explore the Kujichagulia: the principle of self-determination.
Kwanzaa is a vibrant seven-day festival celebrated from December 25th to January 1st, shines a spotlight on the rich tapestry of the African diaspora and its enduring cultural contributions. Founded by members of the African American community in the United States of America (USA), Kwanzaa’s name is derived from the Kiswahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” meaning “first fruits,” symbolising the harvest and the joy of gathering.
Kujichagulia: the principle of self-determination
Kujichagulia, meaning self-determination, emphasises the importance of defining, naming, creating, and speaking for ourselves. It is a call to action for individuals and communities to take control of their own destiny, craft their own narratives, and to assert their identity with confidence and pride.
Self-determination is more than just a principle; it is a way of life. It empowers us to:
- Define ourselves. Understand and embrace our unique identities, histories, and cultures. Recognise the power in our stories and use them to shape our futures.
- Name ourselves. Claim our right to choose our own names and identities, free from the impositions and expectations of others.
- Create for ourselves. Innovate and build within our communities, fostering environments that reflect our values and aspirations.
- Speak for ourselves: Use our voices to advocate for our needs, rights, and dreams. Ensure that our perspectives are heard and respected.
Pan-Africanism and self-determination
Pan-Africanism is a political ideology that sees the interests of all African nations as being intimately related. Pan-Africanism promotes the idea of all indigenous African groups working together to advance their cause (Seneca Learning, 2024).
The African Union embodies the principles of interdependence and self-determination across the African community. The African Union came into being following the work of many iconic leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah (Ghana), Julius Nyerere (Tanganyika, now part of Tanzania) and Jomo Kenyatta (Kenya), all of whom were part of the Pan-African Federation which was founded in Manchester, United Kingdom in 1944. This in not to neglect the influence of another well known Pan-Africanist in Marcus Garvey (Jamaica).
Education, technology and community activism as tools for empowerment
The work and principles of The Community Revolution perfectly align with Kujichagulia; the principle of self-determination. We strive to uplift and empower communities through education, technology, knowledge creation, self-advocacy, and cultural enrichment. We see digital literacy as a key tool in helping unlock opportunities for people, both young and old. By developing both individuals and communities in these areas, we empower them to make informed decisions, and take actions, to improve their lives. We work with a network of partners across the continent to co-create solutions that help facilitate the self-determination of our beneficiaries, which includes both individuals and communities alike. The Community Revolution encourages individuals to take ownership of their life paths, and contribute to the collective growth of their communities.
We see education and technology as being key components necessary for the African community to fully realise self-determination. Indeed the theme of the 2024 African Union Day was “Educate and skill Africa for the 21st century”.
Partners that help advocate for the self-determination of our beneficiaries
The Community Revolution sees our key beneficiaries as being the following:
- young people
- women
- black and ethnic minorities
- rural communities (including pastoralists, fishing communities)
- groups facing digital exclusion
- migrant communities
Some examples of our collaborative work, and the work of our partners, include the Moringa Initiative developed in partnership with the Ghana Permaculture Institute (GPI). Under this initiative we are working to improve the lives of rural communities through a variety of capacity building and economic activities.
Solar Mtaani, is a non-profit organisation in Kenya that delivers training for young people (with a particular interest in women) in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) disciplines. Their Installers Academy, takes youth and women from the deprived informal settlements, and trains them to become solar PV technicians. Another Solar Mtaani project is Rays of HOOP, which raises awareness, and advocates for, the benefits of solar energy in marginalised communities. Through informal training and the distribution of solar lanterns, these communities are gradually being moved away from fossil fuels and towards embracing clean, renewable energy, paving the way for a brighter future.
You can hear more about our work (and our partnerships) in our upcoming podcast.
Summary
As we celebrate Kujichagulia, let us remember that embracing the principle of self-determination is a continuous journey. It requires us to constantly challenge the status quo, to stand firm in our beliefs, and to inspire others to do the same.
Join us in embracing Kujichagulia, and let’s define, name, create, and speak for ourselves with unwavering determination.
Happy Kwanzaa! 🎉
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