AFRICAS

PLEA
BY: Roland Tombekai Dempster
 Africa's Plea

I am not you -
but you will not
give me a chance
will not let me be me

'If I were you' -

but you know
I am not you,
yet you will not
let me be me.

You meddle, interfere

in my affairs
as if they were yours
and you were me.

You are unfair, unwise,

foolish to think
that I can be you,
talk, act
and think like you.

God made me me.

He made you you.
For God's sake
Let me be me.
 It's time to write your own story! This book is
to help you get started.

theme
The poem poignantly captures the voice of Africa as it pleads
for recognition, respect, and liberation from the oppressive
forces of colonialism. Key themes include:
Colonial Oppression, The poem underscores the exploitation
and suffering endured by Africans under colonial rule. It reflects
on the loss of autonomy and the imposition of foreign control. 2.
Cultural Identity, Dempster emphasizes the richness of African
culture and heritage, and the poem is a call to preserve and
honor this identity against the eroding effects of colonization. 3.
Struggle for Freedom, The poem conveys a strong desire for
freedom and self-determination, expressing a hope for
liberation and a future where Africans can reclaim their destiny.
Overall, "Africa's Plea" is a powerful expression of the
continent's yearning for respect, justice, and the right to self-
governance.
 YOUR TURN!
What are your takeaways upon reading the poem?