FLIPPING THE SCRIPT IN THE ANALYSIS OF AFRICAN CONFLICTS: A CHALLENGE TO PEACE STUDIES

Abstract

Is there a logical argument for the need to flip the script in the approach to peace studies in Africa? Over the years, many African universities have paid attention to addressing conflicts in Africa by introducing interdisciplinary courses in peace and conflict studies. The relevance of these courses would depend on the extent to which they offer an in-depth analysis of finding sustainable peace in Africa. This article undertakes an in-depth analysis of Africa, focusing on the Horn of Africa, the Great Lakes region, and West Africa. A suggested theoretical framework will help dissect the conflicts beyond the immediate contextual analysis. The focus is on two innovative theories: the theory of alternative leadership deficiency and the theory of decolonial subjugation. These two theories call for flipping the script in analysing African conflicts by examining internal and external factors of peace fragility and sustainability.