Africa: History and Culture

4-8

Authors: Alisa Konovalova

The article aims to look at the many genres of African music in a political context. The significance of music in African political movements is illustrated by a number of examples from Kenya, Senegal, Mali and other countries over the decades. Furthermore, political themes brought up by modern artists of African ancestry in their songs are discussed.From the analysis, music perhaps does not create political change as a solitary force; rather, it stirs a community into action, expresses and calls attention to oppression, and bridges the divide between people of different cultures. In times of conflict and uncertainty, culture is radicalised. Artists develop new muscles, and events radiate a higher sense of purpose. Music and artists descending from Africa suggest many examples of such phenomenon and its power in a political context.

15-20

Authors: Jacob OwusuSarfo

‘Tro-Tro’ is a local term for any minibus in Ghana, that trip short to semi-long distances as ‘share taxis’. As share taxis, Ghanaian ‘Tro-Tro’ run in between specific destinations with passengers alighting at designated or assumed bus stops, while others get on board. This business is unique for its cheaper transport fares and possible interactions, at least with the conductor who is locally known as the ‘Mate’. This article explores some historic evolutions that the ‘Tro-Tro’ business had accomplished so far in Ghana. In addition, it examines the role ofthe ‘Tro-Tro’ business on the culture, socioeconomic and psychological factors in Ghana. This unique business nurtures a collective life force among thethree human elements; the‘Tro-Tro’ Driver, Mate and passengers. The ‘Tro-Tro’ transport industry and concept have come to stay and needs to be given the needed advocacy and consideration. This paper has implications for future studies, education, transport industry, policy, and traffic and transport psychology in Ghana.