The second edition of Philosophy Friday took place at the luxurious Villa Rosa Kempinski in Nairobi, themed “What Is a Man: Deconstructing African Masculinity.” This gathering brought together a diverse group of attendees eager to examine what it means to be an African man in the 21st century.
Navigating Masculinity in Modern Africa
The discussion posed critical questions about the nature of masculinity in contemporary African societies. Participants examined whether there is more than one way to be a man and the different types of masculinities. The conversation also explored into the pressures that men face and how masculinity is defined in today’s world.
In many rural African communities, traditional views still hold significant sway, with men often seen as dominant providers. However, as societal norms shift and urbanization accelerates, the younger generation finds itself grappling with the challenge of balancing traditional expectations with modern values.
African Masculinity is Diverse
Masculinity in Africa is far from monolithic. It is shaped by various factors, including age, social class, race, religion, ethnicity, sexuality, and historical experiences. Historically, Western ideals have often been used as benchmarks to evaluate African masculinity, leading to perceptions of inadequacy. However, these standards are not universally applicable, as expressions of masculinity in Africa are deeply contextual and vary widely from one community to another.
Redefining Manhood
The event featured insights from prominent African thinkers such as Egodi Uchendu, Olawale Okunrinboye, Carole Ammann, and Sandra Staudacher. Their perspectives helped attendees understand how multiple notions of masculinity emerge and influence individual and collective agency across social, economic, political, and cultural spheres.
Through a moderated dialogue, participants shared their learnings and key points, creating a lively and intellectually stimulating environment. The discussions were enriched by personal anecdotes, scholarly references, and philosophical reflections, making for a truly engaging experience.
A Platform for Critical Thinking and Dialogue
Philosophy Friday, organized by AIA Nairobi, aims to provide spaces and tools for critical thinking, fostering a cosmopolitan mindset and smarter conversations. The initiative aligns with the Aspen Institute’s mission to drive change through dialogue, leadership, and action to address the world’s greatest challenges.
This edition of Philosophy Friday offered a refreshing escape from the relentless buzz of digital communication, providing attendees the opportunity to explore new viewpoints, beliefs, and perspectives in a welcoming and congenial setting. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding African masculinity and a renewed sense of curiosity about future discussions.
We have only scratched the surface of what it means to be a man, and we eagerly anticipate deconstructing masculinity during a weekend-long retreat in a few months. The 2024 Socrates Seminar will gather senior leaders from Africa and abroad to examine the evolving societal norms, expectations, and perceptions of modern masculinity.
