Africa Rising: From Forgotten Greatness to Emerging Continent
FIRST: What Do BCE and CE Mean? Understanding Time in History
When learning about Africa’s history, you will see dates written as BCE and CE instead of BC and AD. Knowing what these mean is important to understand when events happened.
What is CE (Common Era)?
Right now, we are in the year 2025 CE (except in Ethiopia, where it is 2017-2018—see our blog on Daylights Savings Time to learn more). This means 2,025 years have passed since Year 1 CE.
Year 1 CE is the starting point of the Common Era.
Everything before Year 1 is called BCE (Before Common Era).
Everything after Year 1 is called CE (Common Era).
What is BCE (Before Common Era)?
BCE counts the years before Year 1. But BCE years count backward—the bigger the number, the longer ago it happened.
For example:
500 BCE happened 2,525 years ago (because we are in 2025 CE).
1000 BCE happened 3,025 years ago.
2000 BCE happened 4,025 years ago.
Why is This Important?
BCE and CE help us organize history in the correct order. They help us understand when great African kingdoms like Ancient Egypt, Mali, and Songhai existed.
As you read about Africa’s past, remember:
BCE is a long time ago, counting backward before Year 1.
CE is the time we are living in now, counting forward from Year 1.
By understanding BCE and CE, you can see history clearly and know when important events happened!
Introduction: Africa’s Forgotten Legacy and Its Bright Future
For centuries, Africa was home to powerful empires, advanced trade networks, and centers of learning that shaped the world. Yet, much of this history has been buried under the weight of colonization and global narratives that dismissed Africa’s achievements.
But today, Africa is not just rising—it is stepping into a new era of maturity and global leadership. With booming economies, technological innovations, and a thriving diaspora investing in the continent’s future, Africa is reclaiming its rightful place on the world stage.
I. The Power of the Past: Africa’s Great Civilizations
1. Mali Empire: The Gold-Filled Kingdom of Scholars
The Mali Empire was one of the wealthiest and most powerful empires in history, thanks to its vast gold resources and extensive trade networks. At its height, it controlled important trade routes and was home to great centers of learning.
Where was the Empire of Mali located?
The Empire of Mali was located in Western Africa. It grew up along the Niger River and eventually spread across 1,200 miles from the city of Gao to the Atlantic Ocean. It's northern border was just south of the Sahara Desert. It covered regions of the modern day African countries of Mali, Niger, Senegal, Mauritania, Guinea, and The Gambia.
When did the Empire of Mali rule?
The Empire of Mali was established around 1235 CE (2025 - 1235 = 790 years ago). It began to lose power in the 1400s (If we take around 1450 CE as the middle of the 1400s: 2025 - 1450 = 575 years ago) and fully collapsed in 1600 CE (2025 - 1600 = 425 years ago).
How did the Empire first begin?
The Empire of Mali was formed when a ruler named Sundiata Keita united the tribes of the Malinke peoples. He then led them to overthrow the rule of the Soso. Over time, the Mali Empire became stronger and took over surrounding kingdoms including the Empire of Ghana.
Mansa Musa
Perhaps the most famous of the Mali Emperors was Mansa Musa. Mansa Musa became famous because of his lavish trip to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Mecca is the holy city of the Muslims and Mansa Musa decided to make a pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 (701 years ago from today). This means that when Mansa Musa made his famous pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 CE, it happened 701 years ago from today.
It is said that Mansa Musa was extremely rich and that he brought as many as 60,000 people along with him on his pilgrimage. He also brought camels loaded with gold. Mansa Musa must have made quite the impression during his trip with his large entourage and massive display of wealth. During his travels, Mansa Musa gave away and spent a significant amount of gold, but he also brought back a lot of new ideas to Mali. This included a number of scholars such as architects, poets, and teachers who helped to improve his empire.
Fall of the Empire of Mali
Not long after the rule of Mansa Musa ended, the Mali Empire began to grow weak. In the 1400s, the empire began to lose control along the edges of its borders. Then, in the 1500s, the Songhai Empire rose to power. The Mali Empire came to an end in 1610 with the death of the last Mansa, Mahmud IV.
**Key Achievements:**
Mansa Musa, Mali’s most famous ruler, was the richest man in history, spreading wealth across his legendary pilgrimage to Mecca.
The University of Sankore in Timbuktu became a leading intellectual hub, attracting scholars from across the world.
Mali’s trade in gold, salt, and ivory made it a major economic force in medieval Africa.
2. Ethiopia: The Unconquered Kingdom That Defied Colonial Rule
Understanding Centuries: What Does "15th Century" Mean?
A century is a period of 100 years. When we talk about centuries, the number of the century is always one number higher than the actual years it covers.
For example:
The 1st century CE includes the years 1 to 100 CE.
The 2nd century CE includes the years 101 to 200 CE.
The 3rd century CE includes the years 201 to 300 CE, and so on.
Now, let's look at the 15th century:
The 15th century CE includes the years 1401 to 1500 CE.
So, if something happened in the 15th century, it happened sometime between 1401 and 1500 CE.
To find out which century a year belongs to, use this rule:
If the year is between 1 and 100, it is the 1st century.
For any other year, take the first two digits and add 1.
Example:
1492 CE → Take 14 and add 1 → 15th century
1776 CE → Take 17 and add 1 → 18th century
2025 CE → Take 20 and add 1 → 21st century (we are in the 21st century now!)
How Does This Work for BCE?
Centuries in BCE work the same way but count backward:
The 1st century BCE includes the years 100 BCE to 1 BCE.
The 2nd century BCE includes the years 200 BCE to 101 BCE.
The 3rd century BCE includes the years 300 BCE to 201 BCE, and so on.
The Kingdom of Aksum was an ancient kingdom of Africa. It is sometimes called the Kingdom of Axum or Ancient Ethiopia.
Where was the Kingdom of Aksum located?
The Kingdom of Aksum was located along the southern coast of the Red Sea. While most of the empire was west of the Red Sea in the Horn of Africa, at times Aksum also held portions of the Arabian Peninsula to the east of the Red Sea. The kingdom covered much of the current day country of Eritrea as well as northern Ethiopia, Sudan, Yemen, and southern Saudi Arabia.
How long did the Kingdom of Aksum rule?
The city of Aksum likely formed around 400 BCE (2,425 years ago from today). Legend has it that the kingdom was first established by the son of King Solomon of Israel and the Queen of Sheba. Aksum began to rise in power and expand around 100 CE, reaching its peak around 350 CE. It continued to rule the region until around 940 CE when it was conquered by a foreign queen. After a period of unrest, the Zagwe Dynasty took control of the region.
What does “legend “mean?
- Traditional Story: A narrative handed down from the past, often regarded as historical but not verifiable.
Culture of the Kingdom of Aksum
Because of Aksum's location and role in international trading, the culture of Aksum became a blend of many cultures throughout the region. They were influenced by the Egyptians, the Greeks, the Romans, and the Arabs. Christianity, the primary religion after 325 CE, had a major influence on the culture as well.
Aksum was one of the more advanced cultures of Ancient Africa. They developed a written language and minted their own coins. They also developed terraced farming and irrigation, which allowed them to farm the slopes of the local mountains, making their hilly land more productive.
Ethiopia holds a unique place in African history as the only true African nation never colonized by European powers. Its long and rich history dates back thousands of years, with a legacy of strong leadership and cultural resilience.
Interesting Facts about the Kingdom of Aksum
The city of Axum still exists in northern Ethiopia. It is a fairly small city with a population of just over 50,000 people. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Africa.
The stone buildings in Aksum were built without the use of mortar. Instead, the stones were carved to fit snugly together.
The city of Adulis was destroyed by Islamic invaders in 710. This isolated Aksum and began its decline.
With merchants from all around the world coming to Aksum to trade, Greek was generally used as the common language.
**Key Achievements:**
Successfully resisted Italian invasion at the Battle of Adwa in 1896, preserving its independence.
Home to the ancient Kingdom of Aksum, which was a major trade hub linking Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
One of the world’s oldest Christian nations, with religious traditions dating back to the 4th century *
Ethiopia's rich religious diversity today—encompassing Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, Protestants, Muslims, and practitioners of traditional faiths—reflects its historical evolution as an empire composed of various tribes and cultures.
A fun fact about how coffee was discovered in Ethiopia:
Legend has it that coffee was first discovered by an Ethiopian goat herder named Kaldi in the 9th century. One day, Kaldi noticed his goats acting unusually energetic after eating red berries from a certain tree. Curious, he tried the berries himself and felt an incredible boost of energy. He took the discovery to a local monastery, where the monks initially dismissed the beans and threw them into a fire. However, as the beans roasted, they released an irresistible aroma. Intrigued, the monks brewed them into a drink—and thus, coffee was born!
This legendary tale makes Ethiopia not only the birthplace of coffee but also home to a rich coffee culture that continues to this day with the famous Ethiopian coffee ceremony—a beautiful tradition that celebrates the drink’s deep social and spiritual significance. ☕🌍
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A photo showing the Construction of the Great Zimbabwe [Photo: Google, may be copyrighted]
3. Great Zimbabwe: The Stone City That Proved African Ingenuity
Great Zimbabwe was a medieval African city built entirely of stone without mortar, showcasing advanced engineering and architectural skills. It served as the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe and was a major center for trade and political power.
The construction of the city began in the 9th century and continued until it was abandoned in the late 15th and early 16th century. The edifices were erected by ancestors of the Shona and other groups located in Zimbabwe. This stone city spans an area of 7.22 square kilometres (2.79 square miles) and could have housed up to 18,000 people at its peak, giving it a population density of approximately 2,500 per square kilometre.
The distribution and number of houses suggest that Great Zimbabwe boasted a large population, between 10,000–20,000 people being one of the most populated areas during the time.
Brief History
Great Zimbabwe was a medieval African city known for its large circular wall and tower. It was part of a wealthy African trading empire that controlled much of the East African coast from the 11th to the 15th centuries.
Why is it called “Great”?
The word ‘Great’ distinguishes the site from other many small ruins spread across the Zimbabwe Highveld in which there are around 200 such sites in southern Africa including the famous Bumbusi in Zimbabwe and Manyikeni in Mozambique, with monumental and mortarless walls.
The National Flag of Zimbabwe
Legacy
In the late 19th century numerous soapstone figurines in the form of a bird were found in the ruins; and later (the bird) became a national symbol, incorporated into the Zimbabwe flag and shown in other places of high honour.
**Key Achievements:**
Built an advanced city with stone walls and towers that still stand today, demonstrating expert craftsmanship.
Was a central hub in the gold and ivory trade, connecting Africa to the Middle East and Asia.
Symbolized African innovation, political strength, and economic prosperity.
4. Songhai Empire: The Military and Administrative Powerhouse
The Songhai Empire was one of the largest and most organized empires in African history, known for its military strength and sophisticated governance. It succeeded the Mali Empire and expanded its influence across West Africa.
Where was the Songhai Empire located?
The Songhai Empire was located in Western Africa south of the Sahara Desert and along the Niger River. At its peak, it stretched well over 1,000 miles from the current modern day country of Niger to the Atlantic Ocean. The capital city of the Songhai was the city of Gao which was located in modern-day Mali on the banks of the Niger River.
When did the Songhai Empire rule?
The Songhai Empire lasted from 1464 to 1591. Prior to the 1400s, the Songhai were under the rule of the Mali Empire.
How did the Empire first begin?
The Songhai Empire first came into power under the leadership of Sunni Ali. Sunni Ali was a prince of the Songhai. He was being held as a political prisoner by the leader of the Mali Empire who ruled over the Songhai. In 1464, Sunni Ali escaped to the city of Gao and took control of the city. From the city of Gao, he established the Songhai Empire and began to conquer nearby regions including the important trading cities of Timbuktu and Djenne.
Askia Muhammad
In 1493, Askia Muhammad became the leader of the Songhai.
He brought the Songhai Empire to its height of power and founded the Askia Dynasty. Askia Muhammad was a devout Muslim. Under his rule, Islam became an important part of the empire. He conquered much of the surrounding lands and took control of the gold and salt trade from the Mali Empire.
The Songhai Culture
The Great mosque of Djingarey Ber /timbuku, Photo credit : Marco Dormino
The Songhai culture became a blend of traditional West African beliefs and the religion of Islam. Daily life was often ruled by traditions and local customs, but the law of the land was based on Islam. Under the rule of Askia Muhammad, Islam became an integral part of the empire's administration, with all governors, judges, and town chiefs being Muslims.
This integration of Islamic principles with indigenous customs fostered a unique cultural synthesis that defined Songhai society.
Slaves
The slave trade became an important part of the Songhai Empire, with Africans themselves playing a significant role in the enslavement and trade of their own people. Slaves were often captives of war, taken during raids on neighboring regions, and then used to help transport goods across the Sahara Desert to Morocco and the Middle East. Additionally, African rulers and merchants participated in selling slaves to Europeans, who then transported them to work in Europe and the Americas. While European demand fueled the transatlantic slave trade, it is important to acknowledge that African leaders, traders, and kingdoms were active participants in capturing and selling their own people, making slavery a complex and deeply rooted system that extended beyond colonial exploitation.
Fall of the Songhai Empire
In the mid-1500's the Songhai Empire began to weaken due to internal strife and civil war. In 1591, the Moroccan army invaded and captured the cities of Timbuktu and Gao. The empire collapsed and was divided up into a number of separate smaller states.
Interesting Facts about the Songhai Empire
Sunni Ali became a legendary hero in Songhai folklore. He was often portrayed as having magical powers and was known as Sunni Ali the Great.
If a prisoner of war had already converted to Islam before being captured, they could not be sold as a slave.
A West African storyteller is called a griot. History was often passed down from generation to generation through the griots.
The city of Timbuktu became an important city of trade and education during the Songhai Empire.
**Key Achievements:**
Askia Muhammad, a great reformer, established a centralized government and standardized currency.
The city of Timbuktu remained a leading center for Islamic scholarship and trade.
The empire maintained a powerful army that ensured stability and economic prosperity.
II. Overcoming Colonization: Africa’s Path to Economic and Political Sovereignty
The European Scramble for Africa: The roots of colonialism in Africa can be traced back to the 15th century when European powers embarked on exploratory voyages along the African coastline. However, it was in the late 19th century, known as the Scramble for Africa, that the colonization of the continent reached its peak. Motivated by economic interests, strategic advantages, and a desire for prestige, European powers, namely Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, and Italy, divided Africa into colonies through a series of conferences and treaties.
Ethiopia and Liberia are often cited as the only African nations that were not permanently colonized by European powers during the colonial era.
Ethiopia successfully resisted colonization, notably defeating Italian forces at the Battle of Adwa in 1896. Although Italy occupied Ethiopia from 1936 to 1941, this period did not result in lasting colonial rule.
Liberia's unique origins contributed to its maintained independence. Established by the American Colonization Society in 1821 as a settlement for freed African Americans, Liberia declared independence in 1847. Its strong ties to the United States discouraged European colonization efforts.
For a deeper understanding of Ethiopia's resistance to colonization, you might find this video informative:
The colonial era left Africa divided, exploited, and weakened. However, across the continent, leaders and nations have been breaking free from the shackles of foreign control, asserting their economic and political independence. The growth of Pan-Africanism, the formation of regional economic blocs, and the surge in homegrown industries are evidence of Africa’s drive toward true sovereignty.
Pan-Africanism and Agenda 2063
Pan-Africanism, advocating for solidarity among all African nations, has been a guiding philosophy in the continent's pursuit of unity and self-determination. This ideology is embodied in the African Union's Agenda 2063, a strategic framework aiming for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Adopted in 2015, Agenda 2063 envisions an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.
Regional Economic Blocs
To foster economic integration and cooperation, African nations have established various regional economic communities (RECs):
African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): Operational since 2021, AfCFTA is a landmark agreement that brings together 54 of the 55 African Union nations, creating one of the world's largest free trade areas. Its goal is to boost intra-African trade by reducing tariffs and allowing free access to commodities, goods, and services across the continent.
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS): Founded in 1975, ECOWAS promotes economic integration and collective self-sufficiency among its member states. Beyond economic matters, it has played a pivotal role in maintaining regional stability through peacekeeping missions.
Southern African Development Community (SADC): Established in 1980, SADC aims to achieve development, peace, and security, as well as economic growth, through regional integration. The SADC Free Trade Area, launched in 2008, exemplifies efforts to enhance intra-regional trade by reducing trade barriers among member states.
Homegrown Industries and Economic Independence
Alongside political initiatives, there has been a significant rise in homegrown industries across Africa. Entrepreneurs and local businesses are driving innovation in sectors such as technology, agriculture, and manufacturing. This industrial growth not only creates employment opportunities but also reduces dependency on foreign imports, strengthening economic sovereignty.
Collectively, these efforts signify Africa's unwavering commitment to overcoming the legacies of colonialism and achieving genuine autonomy and prosperity.
1. Economic Growth That Rivals the World
Six of the world’s ten fastest-growing economies are in Africa (Ethiopia, Rwanda, Ghana, etc.).
Countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are leading in financial markets and entrepreneurship.
2. Political Leadership: A New Generation of African Statesmen
Ghana’s democratic stability and commitment to economic reforms have set a strong example for the region.
Rwanda, under Paul Kagame, has emerged as a model of post-conflict recovery, boasting one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.
South Africa continues to navigate democratic governance, economic growth, and institutional reforms.
3. Innovation and Technology: Africa’s Digital Transformation
Nairobi, Lagos, and Cape Town: Africa's Leading Tech Hubs
Nairobi, Lagos, and Cape Town have emerged as Africa's leading tech hubs, fostering innovation and attracting significant investments. Companies like Nigeria's Flutterwave and Kenya's Safaricom are revolutionizing financial services.
Their mobile banking and digital payment solutions have enhanced financial inclusion, allowing previously unbanked populations to access financial services. This technological advancement is transforming economies across the continent.
4. A Cultural Renaissance: Africa’s Global Influence in Music, Film, and Fashion
Afrobeats dominates global music charts, led by artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid.
Nollywood is the second-largest film industry in the world after Bollywood.
African fashion designers are gracing the world’s biggest runways and reshaping global trends.
III. The Role of the African Diaspora: A Global Community Fueling Africa’s Maturity
1. The Financial Power of Remittances
Africans in the diaspora sent over $95 billion in remittances back home in 2022 alone.
These funds help build businesses, fund education, and improve infrastructure.
Diaspora investments are fueling real estate, healthcare, and technology sectors.
2. Knowledge and Skills Transfer: Bringing Expertise Back to Africa
African professionals abroad are leading in medicine, finance, and technology.
Returnee entrepreneurs are launching startups, think tanks, and investment firms.
Higher education initiatives are seeing an influx of African academics and researchers returning to mentor the next generation.
3. A Call to Action: The Diaspora’s Responsibility in Africa’s Future
Sending money isn’t enough—Africa needs strategic investments and policy advocacy.
The diaspora must mentor young Africans, build global partnerships, and engage in political leadership.
African-owned businesses abroad should look to expand operations into the continent, bringing capital and expertise home.
Conclusion: Africa’s Renaissance Has Begun—What Will Your Role Be?
Africa stands at a pivotal moment in history, reclaiming its legacy as a land of wealth, innovation, and resilience. From the great empires of Mali, Ethiopia, Songhai, and Great Zimbabwe to the economic powerhouses of today, the continent has always been a force to be reckoned with. The story of Africa is not one of victimhood, but of endurance, reinvention, and an unshakable will to thrive.
For too long, Africa’s greatness was overshadowed by narratives of colonization, conflict, and poverty. However, these challenges—though real—do not define the continent. The world is now witnessing Africa truly rising, and hopefully in not too long an ascending Africa, one driven by economic expansion, digital innovation, political sovereignty, and cultural influence on a global scale. The rise of tech hubs in Kenya and Nigeria, the economic transformation of Ethiopia and Rwanda, and the cultural explosion of Afrobeats and Nollywood all signal that Africa is not just rising—it is leading.
The African diaspora consists of two primary groups:
Descendants of the Transatlantic Slave Trade: Between the 15th and 19th centuries, approximately 12.5 million Africans were forcibly transported to the Americas. Today, their descendants form significant populations in countries like the United States, Brazil, and the Caribbean. For instance, in the United States, about 46.9 million people identified as Black or African American in the 2020 Census.
2. Recent African Immigrants and Their Descendants: In recent decades, individuals from various African nations have voluntarily migrated worldwide, maintaining strong familial and cultural ties to their countries of origin. Communities such as Nigerian Americans and Ghanaian British exemplify this group, contributing to the rich diversity of the global African diaspora.
The African Union defines African diaspora as “people of African Origin who live outside the continent, and who, irrespective of their current nationality or citizenship, are willing to contribute to the development of the continent and the African Union. This definition encompasses all African migration; historic, current, forced, voluntary, economic or humanitarian”.
But Africa’s future is not solely in the hands of its governments or corporate leaders. The role of the African diaspora is just as critical. Africans abroad send back billions in remittances, invest in businesses, and bring global expertise home. Yet, the real challenge is beyond financial support—it is about leadership, mentorship, and strategic investment. The diaspora must move from sending aid to building institutions, shaping policies, and creating lasting opportunities for the next generation.
At the same time, it is essential to acknowledge Africa’s full history—both its triumphs and its complexities. The transatlantic slave trade was fueled not just by European greed but also by African kingdoms and merchants who participated in capturing and selling their own people. Recognizing this reality does not diminish Africa’s strength; rather, it reinforces the importance of learning from history to forge a more unified and self-determined future. Africa’s next era must be one of cooperation, accountability, and empowerment.
So, what role will you play in Africa’s transformation?
The continent is not waiting for permission to rise. The question is no longer whether Africa is ready for the future—the question is whether you are ready to be part of it.