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CFP: Democracy, Governance, Development and Arts in Africa Conference to be held in Nairobi, November 1-3 November 2012 Africans had high hopes following independence. These hopes included expanded space to allow for a wider economic, socio-cultural and political participation. This was not to be the case as political, economic and socio-cultural space was shrunk by the political elite soon after celebrating and enjoying a few years of independence. Africa has paid a heavy price for this. Political, economic and socio-cultural institutions are just beginning to mushroom in a few African countries while the space is still limited in others. This explains why democracy, governance and development have been key topics and challenges for debate and discussion in Africa. While this is the case, there has been a tendency to ignore the role and place of arts in the whole debate of democracy, governance and development in Africa. African governments and political elites (including dictators) have treated art and artists with caution. The late president of Libya, Gaddafi was only comfortable with musicians who promoted traditional music. Musicians and cartoonists in Kenya were censured by Kenyatta and Moi regimes. Some of them had to flee into exile for fear of becoming political detainees/prisoners. Musicians in South Africa played a key role in fighting the apartheid regime through music. While music can play a democratizing role, those who are not ready to embrace democracy and good governance have limited space for musicians. Artists have also seized opportunities to benefit from undemocratic and bad governments by producing art that praise incumbent leadership. In some instances, In view of this, Kenyan Institute for Creative Arts is planning to hold a conference to debate, discuss and publish on the key topic of ‘democracy, Governance, development and Arts in Africa’. The conference will run between 1st and 3rd November 2012. Apart from paper presenters, the conference invites students of creative arts as well as artists from Africa and beyond. Those interested n presenting papers are requested to send their abstracts of not more than 500 words and CVs to reach the organizers before 15th August 2012. Further questions, suggestions, abstracts and CVs should be sent by email to conference coordinator, Everlyne Makana< wemakana@gmail.com>
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