Mr Ivan Pitman Musingo. Photo/Courtesy
The digital age has revolutionised how we live, work, and communicate, ushering in unprecedented opportunities. This transformation is inclusive, transcending age and location, and is accessible to anyone willing to invest the effort to unlearn, learn, and relearn.
Technology has emerged as a powerful tool, bridging gaps across various aspects of life.
Today, pursuing knowledge often leads us to digital platforms, where information is readily accessible to those eager to take advantage. This access democratises education, empowering individuals to grow personally, professionally, and even institutionally.
However, fully harnessing the potential of this new digital landscape requires adaptability. In our rapidly evolving, tech-driven world, each day offers opportunities to access knowledge that was once exclusive to a privileged few.
This universal access broadens horizons and fosters critical thinking, enabling individuals to question and challenge societal norms—particularly those detrimental to the public good.
Consider the 2024 Gen Z protests in Kenya, where young people voiced their frustration over high taxes and the rising cost of living.
Similarly, in Uganda, social media has become a vibrant platform for social and political discourse, particularly on sensitive issues affecting society.
Information that was once classified is now becoming publicly accessible, prompting people, especially the younger generation, to ask critical questions.
Take, for instance, the land issue on this continent I call home. Colonial settlers and their descendants still control vast tracts of prime agricultural land, acquired through violent displacement of indigenous African communities.
Backed by agreements and concessions made during independence—an era marked by an uneven power dynamic—many Africans continue to squat on land that was once theirs.
Namibia offers a stark example, with German settlers retaining significant landholdings. Similarly, in Kenya, "Crown Land" remains in the hands of white settler communities, supported by the political elite and entrenched powers.
This raises pressing questions: Who owns the "Crown," and whom does it truly serve?
These are just some of the complex issues we grapple with in increasingly challenging times.
As the digital revolution unfolds, we must prepare to confront these challenges and engage in difficult but necessary conversations as a precursor to finding lasting solutions.
Our forefathers fought against colonialism, the injustice of their time. Today, the pursuit of knowledge is a powerful weapon we can wield to forge a better future.
The digital revolution has provided us with remarkable tools to advance this cause. As one legendary artist once said, "Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery," envisioning a path toward an enlightened and empowered Africa.
Authored by Ivan Pitman Musingo. Mr Musingo is founder of the African Pin
