A recent social media campaign, “The Frame,” is shedding new light on ancient writing systems and cultural heritages in Africa. The project features 50 objects from Zambia, showcasing the country’s rich history and challenging common myths about African societies’ knowledge of reading and writing.
According to Samba Yonga, one of the founders of the virtual Women’s History Museum of Zambia, many Africans were incorrectly told they did not know how to read and write. However, this is far from the truth. The Zambians had their own writing systems, including the intricate “Sona” script, used by the Chokwe, Luchazi, and Luvale people.
The Frame project highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritages that have been largely erased by colonialism. Swedish explorers and collectors amassed a vast collection of Zambian artefacts during the 19th and early 20th centuries, including intricately decorated leather cloaks and reed fishing baskets.
These objects reveal a sophisticated understanding of mathematics, nature, and community life. The Sona script is still being studied by scholars today, with community elders providing valuable insights into its meaning and significance.
The project aims to push back against the common idea that African societies did not have their own knowledge systems. By sharing these stories and artefacts, “The Frame” hopes to inspire a new generation of researchers, artists, and communities to reconnect with their cultural heritage.
For Samba Yonga, this campaign has been transformative, allowing her to understand her community’s history and context better. The project is a testament to the power of collaboration and research, as individuals work together to uncover and preserve Africa’s rich cultural legacy.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5ye50xgw8vo