The Legacy of Slavery in Coastal Kenya: Memory, Identity, and Heritage

Postcolonial and post-slavery societies often appropriate and contest the current memories on slavery, particularly in tourist attractions that empower communities through economic benefits. Herman Ogoti Kiriama's book explores how two communities in coastal Kenya remember their past and the role of tourism in the process of remembering and or forgetting, arguing that heritage, memory, and identity are fluid and individuals can claim multiple identities depending on their socio-politico-economic contexts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

Postcolonial and post-slavery societies often appropriate and contest the prevailing memories of slavery, particularly in contexts where slavery sites are transformed into tourist attractions that provide economic benefits to communities. This leads to the emergence of "new memories of the past" and a continuous process of constructing and reconstructing identity. In his book "The Legacy of Slavery in Coastal Kenya: Memory, Identity, and Heritage," Herman Ogoti Kiriama explores how two communities in coastal Kenya, one facing identity disputes and another seeking recognition, have grappled with remembering their past and the role that tourism has played in this process. Kiriama contends that heritage, memory, and identity are fluid, and individuals can possess multiple identities based on their socio-politico-economic contexts.

The appropriation and contestation of slavery memories in postcolonial and post-slavery societies are influenced by various factors. One significant factor is the economic benefits that tourism brings to communities associated with slavery sites. These benefits can foster a sense of empowerment and pride, leading to the construction of new memories that emphasize the positive aspects of the past. For example, in coastal Kenya, where slavery was a significant part of the local history, tourism has provided opportunities for communities to showcase their cultural heritage and generate income. This has led to the emergence of new narratives that highlight the contributions of enslaved individuals and their descendants to the development of the region.

However, the process of remembering and forgetting slavery is not always straightforward. In some cases, communities may struggle to reconcile their conflicting memories of the past. This can be particularly true when slavery sites are transformed into tourist attractions, as the commercialization of these sites can overshadow the historical significance of the events that took place there. For instance, in coastal Kenya, some communities may view the presence of tourists as a threat to their cultural identity and heritage, as they fear that the commercialization of slavery will overshadow the memory of the struggles and sacrifices made by enslaved individuals.

To address these challenges, postcolonial and post-slavery societies have developed various strategies for remembering and contesting slavery memories. One approach is the use of heritage sites and museums to promote education and awareness about slavery. These institutions can provide a platform for communities to share their stories and experiences, and to engage with visitors from different backgrounds. By promoting a more nuanced and complex understanding of the past, heritage sites and museums can help to break down stereotypes and promote empathy and understanding.

Another strategy is the promotion of cultural exchange and dialogue between communities. This can involve the participation of individuals from different communities in cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions. By fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration, communities can work together to reconcile their conflicting memories of the past and to develop a shared sense of identity.

Furthermore, postcolonial and post-slavery societies have also recognized the importance of acknowledging the role of colonialism and slavery in shaping their present-day identities. This can involve the recognition of the historical injustices that have been perpetrated and the commitment to addressing the ongoing impacts of colonialism and slavery. For example, in coastal Kenya, some communities have organized protests and campaigns to demand reparations for the enslavement of their ancestors and to address the social and economic inequalities that continue to affect their communities.

In conclusion, the appropriation and contestation of slavery memories in postcolonial and post-slavery societies are complex and multifaceted processes. These societies have developed various strategies for remembering and contesting slavery memories, including the use of heritage sites and museums, cultural exchange and dialogue, and the acknowledgment of the historical injustices that have shaped their present-day identities. By promoting a more nuanced and complex understanding of the past, these societies can work towards reconciliation and healing, and towards the development of a shared sense of identity that is based on respect, empathy, and understanding.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793646156