An African History of Africa, with Zeinab Badawi (Part One)

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Aug 2, 2025

Zeinab Badawi, an award-winning broadcaster and journalist, unveils a fresh perspective on Africa's history. She argues for narratives that prioritize African voices over colonial frameworks. Delving into ancient civilizations, she highlights the influential roles of women in Sudan's Meroitic period and the impacts of empires like Aksum and Great Zimbabwe. Badawi advocates for educational reforms to bridge historical gaps, aiming to empower future generations with a deeper understanding of their rich heritage.

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INSIGHT

Africa: The Cradle of Humanity

Africa has the longest history on Earth, originating humanity itself.
The notion that African history began only with European colonization is false and outdated.

INSIGHT

Mansa Musa: Global Economic Impact

Mansa Musa's wealth and generosity impacted the 14th-century global economy.
Mali's empire contributed to scholarship and architecture, showing Africa's global significance.

INSIGHT

Kushite Kingdom: A Powerful Legacy

Ancient Sudan's Kushite kingdom was a major African superpower with rich culture.
Kushite queens wielded significant power, influencing traditions that persist today.

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‘Everyone is originally from Africa, and this book is therefore for everyone.’ – Zeinab Badawi

Too often historians have told the history of Africa through the prism of colonialism. But what picture of the continent emerges when we do away with making the story of Africa so anchored in European colonialism?

In July 2025 award-winning broadcaster Zeinab Badawi returned to the Intelligence Squared stage to tell a new history of Africa – in all its shades and complexities – without the stifling gaze of Europe. Drawing on the themes of her latest book, An African History of Africa: From the Dawn of Humanity to Independence, she discussed the origins of humankind, the emergence of ancient civilisations and empires, and the joys and thrills of Independence.

Having visited more than thirty African countries to interview countless historians, anthropologists, archaeologists and local storytellers, Badawi explored a gripping new history of the oldest inhabited continent on the planet, told through the voices of Africans themselves.

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