DECOLONIZING THE COLONIZED

Abstract

The type of colonization which the disadvantaged nations received appears to
salvage their situation. But it is actually deceptive, exploitative and an enslavement.
The independence of the colonized seems to have been greatly entrapped by
imperialism or neo-colonialism. It appears that African independence, to a large
extent, is not completely won. The oppressed move from colonialism to neo-
colonialism. Hence, they have continued to be slaves of their predicament even
when the oppressors are no longer there with them. The above condition exists
because of the type of indoctrination and orientation given to them. The realization
of a great deal of damage this has caused in the lives of the oppressed calls for
decolonization which precedes the defense and development of African cultural
values and identity. This paper employs critical analysis to buttress the fact that as
the oppressed struggle to free themselves from the shackles of colonialism, it
becomes their responsibility to react rationally and creatively to better their
situation. They can be liberated from the hegemony of the oppressors by
decolonizing their minds, improving relevant aspect of their culture, and
maintaining their own identity. The oppressed will not gain this liberation by
chance, but through the praxis of their quest for itand their recognition of the
necessity to fight it. Thus, since the phenomenon of colonization is deep and
powerful and has adverse effects on the colonized; it would be vain to expect that
their identity remains unchanged. The colonized should heave a big sigh of relief
for there is hope for a better tomorrow. Once decolonization is realized, they will
have self-mastery and become self-reliant and will not be dependent again. They
should expunge pessimism and be optimistic, striving with renewed vigor and
creative actions for the triumph of decolonization for their growth and
development.
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