Development Governor: Sir Geoffrey Colby - A Biography

Geoffrey Colby was a development governor in Nyasaland who handled the decolonization process with sensitivity and vigor, being aware of the tension between the white settler community and African nationalists.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 421 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This is a study of a development governor in Nyasaland (now Malawi) in the period leading up to decolonization and the end of empire. Geoffrey Colby arrived in Nyasaland at a particularly challenging time - when the influential white settler community was pushing for the Central African Federation and, therefore, closer ties with white-dominated Southern Rhodesia, a move resisted by growing African nationalism. He was always aware of the danger of another Mau Mau and handled the problems associated with the decolonization process with sensitivity and vigor. The biography portrays Geoffrey Colby as an efficient and humane official who was primarily concerned with development issues while being aware of the tension between the economically dominant white settler community and the emerging class of African nationalists.

Geoffrey Colby's arrival in Nyasaland coincided with a period of significant political and social upheaval. The white settler community, which had dominated the region for centuries, was pressing for greater autonomy and a closer relationship with Southern Rhodesia, a white-dominated territory to the south. This demand was met with resistance from growing African nationalism, which sought to assert African identity and control over the country's resources.

Colby was well aware of the dangers posed by the potential resurgence of Mau Mau, a violent anti-colonial movement that had terrorized the country in the 1950s. He took proactive measures to prevent the recurrence of such violence, including establishing a strong security force and implementing measures to address the underlying social and economic grievances that fueled the movement.

At the same time, Colby was committed to promoting development in Nyasaland. He worked tirelessly to improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare in the region, recognizing the importance of these sectors in building a prosperous and independent nation. Colby also played a key role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding between the different communities in Nyasaland, a move that helped to foster a sense of unity and belonging among the people.

Despite the challenges and tensions of the period, Geoffrey Colby's tenure as development governor was marked by success. He was able to navigate the complex political landscape and build strong relationships with both the white settler community and the emerging African nationalist movement. Colby's commitment to development and his understanding of the local context helped to lay the foundation for a prosperous and independent Malawi, a nation that continues to thrive today.

Weight: 536g
Dimension: 216 x 138 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350183940