The paper adopts the concept of multidimensional heritage as a lens through which to investigate colonial statues in Africa, tracing their significance and evolution since the era of independence. Through transnational, diachronic, and multi-thematical perspectives, the study sheds light on the complex dynamics surrounding these statues within the African context, particularly in relation to their connections with former colonial powers in Europe.
By conceptualising colonial statues as transnational phenomena, the paper underscores their broader implications and enduring legacies across borders, highlighting the intricate interplay between Africa and its colonial past. To comprehensively capture the multifaceted nature of heritage uses, the study employs a diachronic approach, examining three distinct periods: colonial statues at independence (1950s to 1980); the revival of (neo)colonial statues (1990s-2000s); and renewed contestations (since the 2010s).
Furthermore, the paper delves into the various ways in which the past is manifested and interpreted through colonial statues, exploring dimensions such as public memory, identities, diplomacy, aid, and justice. By interrogating these diverse aspects, the study offers a nuanced understanding of the complex roles that colonial statues play in shaping narratives of history and heritage in contemporary Africa.
Overall, the paper contributes to ongoing discussions on heritage, memory, and colonial legacies, providing valuable insights into the evolving significance and contested meanings of colonial statues within the African context. Through its interdisciplinary approach and multifaceted analysis, it offers a comprehensive framework for examining the complexities surrounding heritage preservation and commemoration in post-colonial societies.
