By Lalelisile Mncwabe

 

Rhodes University’s Professor Arthur Mukenge, a distinguished scholar of Francophone African literature, delivered his inaugural lecture titled “Literary Criticism in an African Context: A Francophone African Literature Perspective” on 07 October 2024.

The event marked a significant point in Professor Mukenge’s academic career, which spans multiple institutions, including Rhodes University, where he advanced from junior lecturer to full professor and Head of French and Francophone Studies. Born in Kambove, Democratic Republic of Congo, Professor Mukenge’s early engagement with language and storytelling was influenced by his experiences growing up in a mining compound.

The lecture focused on the cultural richness of African heritage and underscored the importance of diverse narratives in academic discussions. Professor Mukenge discussed how Francophone African literature provides distinctive insights into identity, colonialism, and social justice, with a body of work that includes epic novels and global narratives. He referenced the Negritude movement, which played a key role in the development of modern African literature, challenging prevailing narratives and promoting African perspectives. Writers such as Léopold Sédar Senghor and Mongo Beti contributed to the exploration of themes including identity, colonial oppression, and authenticity.

Professor Mukenge also emphasised that Francophone African literature's significance extends beyond national boundaries and engages with global audiences. He highlighted the need to look beyond established authors and explore the work of emerging writers, fostering a broader and more inclusive literary landscape. This, he argued, can be achieved through promoting diverse narratives, supporting emerging voices, and leveraging interdisciplinary methods and digital platforms to ensure that underrepresented voices are heard. Such efforts contribute to a more nuanced understanding of human experiences.

His academic career is an example of the value of interdisciplinary approaches. His research has examined a range of texts, including Une si Longue lettre and Chant Écarlate by Mariama Ba, which shed light on women's experiences in West Africa and the importance of questioning societal norms. He has also explored the concept of littérature à deux vitesses (literature of two speeds), distinguishing between diaspora literature and national literature.

As a prolific author, Professor Mukenge has published extensively, including novels, fiction, and literary criticism. His upcoming book, Clémentine ou le bien-fondé d'être femme ? (Clémentine, or The Well-Founded Nature of Being a Woman), set to be released later this year, reflects his continued interest in examining women's experiences in African contexts.

In discussing the importance of collaboration and networking, Professor Mukenge encouraged students and academics to build connections that can open up new opportunities for growth. He stressed that interaction with peers, mentors, and industry leaders can provide access to resources, facilitate knowledge exchange, and create professional opportunities. By fostering collaboration across disciplines and institutions, scholars can expand the reach of their research and contribute to a more dynamic academic community.

He also noted the relevance of initiatives that highlight underrepresented voices, such as literary festivals, workshops, and mentorship programmes. Collaborative research that addresses cross-cultural themes such as migration, displacement, and social justice can contribute to a broader understanding of human experiences. International conferences and workshops, he suggested, provide valuable opportunities for sharing research and ideas.

The lecture concluded with a call for continued efforts towards creating a more inclusive literary environment. Recognising Professor Mukenge’s achievements underscores the role of literature in shaping how we understand both the world and ourselves. By promoting diverse narratives and supporting collaboration, scholars and writers can enhance their understanding of the complexities of human experience.