HETEROGENEITY IN THE HOMOGENOUS AFRICA, POLICY GAP AND THE CHALLENGE OF PAN-AFRICANISM

Abstract

The dream by some Pan-Africanists to achieve supra-statehood at the continental level has been a mirage despite the efforts in playing down on the heterogeneous factors, and therefore emphasizing on homogenous traits that could make Africans see themselves as one indigenous people from one stock, same historic experience, culture and traditions. These efforts have only resulted to a mere union currently known as African Union (AU) which struggles through policies to encourage and strengthen bonds of solidarity between and amongst member states. This study investigated the implications of Africa’s heterogeneity on the efficacy of Pan-African policies, and examined how the existing policy gaps undermine the objectives of Pan-afrinicanism. The study employed incremental model for conceptual analysis. Qualitative methodology is adopted as data were gathered through secondary means. Documentary content study was used for analysis. The study reveals that the heterogeneity which is manifested in the quest of African states for the protection and preservation of their political sovereignty, and the “overzealous policies” of African Union have led to the impediment of Pan-Africanism. It recommended amongst others that Pan-Africanism should be realized through an incremental rather than radical approach.