Congolese Horizons Conference At The Africa Institute Examines Temporalities In Congo Studies

A gathering of over 40 scholars from the humanities and social sciences is taking place at The Africa Institute, Global Studies University (GSU) in Sharjah. This sixth international conference, titled "Congolese Horizons: Weaving Temporalities in Congo Studies," runs until 31st January. It delves into how temporality influences Congolese history, culture, and society. The event is organised in partnership with the Congo Research Network (CRN).

The conference aims to explore the intricate ways time interacts with the past, present, and future of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, President of Global Studies University, opened the event by stating, "The conference theme explores temporality through an interdisciplinary lens, and interrogates the ways in which it is historically, culturally, and politically understood and experienced in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and beyond."

Professor Salah M. Hassan, Chancellor of Global Studies University and Dean of The Africa Institute, highlighted the conference's objective. He said it provides a unique platform for interdisciplinary dialogues on topics like historical memory and ecological entanglements. These discussions also cover technological innovation and political aspirations.

Nine thematic panels are featured at the conference. They address a wide range of subjects such as colonialism’s enduring effects, ecological changes, and religion's role in Congolese life. The panels also discuss evolving labour dynamics and social identities within the DRC.

Emery Kalema, Assistant Professor of History at The Africa Institute, GSU, emphasised the significance of these discussions. He stated that by examining multiple temporal dimensions, participants can rethink global issues through Congo’s unique temporal landscapes.

The conference sheds light on how communities affected by mining and colonial histories have transformed over time. It offers insights into shifting labour patterns and social identities within these communities.

Fostering Understanding

The "Congolese Horizons" conference successfully facilitates meaningful exchanges about Congolese experiences' temporal aspects. It promotes a deeper understanding of the diverse histories, cultures, and identities shaping today's DRC. Participants engage not only with past events but also with current complexities influencing Congo's future.

This event underscores how temporality shapes various facets of Congolese life while encouraging broader reflections on global issues through this unique perspective.

With inputs from WAM