Prominent scholars in African history have paid tribute to the late Kenyan historian, Professor Bethwell Ogot, hailing his work as instrumental in restoring Africa’s dignity through historiography. They emphasized that the struggle for academic freedom in Africa is deeply tied to scholars like Ogot, who played a pivotal role in dismantling colonial narratives and legitimizing African oral traditions as historical sources.
These insights were shared during the latest edition of the Toyin Falola Interviews, held on Sunday across various online platforms. The panel, led by Professor Toyin Falola, featured distinguished scholars such as Professors Mary Nyangweso (East Carolina University), Maurice Nyamanga Amutabi (Technical University of Kenya), Eunice Kamaara (Moi University), and Fred Muyia Nafukho (University of Washington, Seattle).
Speaking on the theme ‘Bethwell Ogot: Historian and Service to Africa’, Falola underscored Ogot’s immense contributions: “He fought for the legitimacy of African perspectives in historical research. Without his work, our history would still be filtered through colonial lenses.” He noted that from his tenure at Kenyan universities to his global engagements, Ogot’s advocacy for African-centered education continues to shape the continent’s academic landscape.
Ogot, who passed away in January 2025, was a distinguished historian, scholar, and intellectual whose pioneering work reshaped the study of African history. A staunch advocate of African historiography, he championed the use of oral traditions as legitimate historical sources, challenging Eurocentric narratives that had long dominated the field.
Professor Nafukho described Ogot as a key figure in the restoration of Africa’s dignity. “Today, we gather to mourn and to pay tribute to a titan of African scholarship, a great educator, and a distinguished scholar,” he said. “He showed us that our history is important, our stories matter, and our voices deserve to be heard. Professor Ogot didn’t just research and write history; he restored dignity to our past through his seminal research, passionate teaching, and profound writings.
”He continued, “His footprints, as he called them in his autobiography, are not mere impressions in the sand; they are carved into the bedrock of African and international scholarship. His work transformed not just how the world sees Africa but how Africa sees itself.
”Reflecting on the enduring impact of Ogot’s legacy, Nafukho added, “If you see a living person, that person will one day transform into another state—what we call death. But if you see a dead person, that is not the end. In the case of Professor Ogot, his writings will live with us. His passing is a reminder and a challenge that we must continue his work and advance his thinking.
”For Professor Nyangweso, Ogot was Africa’s greatest historian. “Bethwell Ogot has been described as Kenya’s ultimate historian. I could not agree more. I would call him Africa’s greatest historian. The mention of history triggers his name among all Africans who studied his work.
I was fortunate to have known him, been mentored by him, and collaborated with him. It is impossible to grow up in Kenya as a scholar without engaging with his work.”Professor Kamaara acknowledged the pivotal role of Ogot’s wife, Grace, in his accomplishments. “We cannot understand Ogot without knowing something about Grace,” she said. “Grace Ogot was instrumental in his life in every sense of the word. By the time they married, she had already practiced as a nurse, journalist, and diplomat. She later became a member of parliament and even an assistant minister. These roles had a profound impact on Bethwell Ogot’s work.
”Kamaara emphasized the intersection of public and private life, stating, “Whatever we do in the public sphere is facilitated by our private lives. There is no dichotomy between them. Professor Ogot frequently spoke fondly and admiringly of Grace, acknowledging how she supported his roles as a father, scholar, and public intellectual. Her influence was significant in shaping his career and life.
”The scholars submitted that the greatest tribute to Professor Ogot’s legacy is to continue telling Africa’s stories, preserving its history, and fostering a scholarly tradition rooted in African perspectives. His work remains a beacon for future generations, ensuring that Africa’s past is told through its own voice and vision.
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