Must-Read Non-Fiction African Books for the First Half of 2024 – WAW Edition

The first half of 2024 has seen the release of a remarkable lineup of non-fiction books by African authors. These works offer in-depth explorations of African history, culture, social issues, and personal narratives, providing readers with a rich understanding of the continent’s diverse experiences and perspectives.

1. An African History of Africa: From the Dawn of Civilization to Independence by Zainab Badawi

Penguin Books – 18 April 2024

Zainab Badawi travels across 30 African countries, interviewing historians, anthropologists, archaeologists, and local storytellers. She uncovers hidden narratives and comprehensively views Africa’s role in global history. This book significantly contributes to understanding Africa’s past and its impact on the present

2. An Imperfect Storm by Chikwe Ihekweazu and Vivian Ihekweazu

Masobe Books – 30 April 2024

Exploring the human impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Chikwe and Vivian Ihekweazu emphasise themes of humanity, familial strength, hope, resilience, and collective efforts. This book offers a heartfelt examination of how communities came together during a global crisis.

3. Can Feminism Be African? by Minna Salami

William Collins – 13 February 2024

Minna Salami uses social commentary and critique to discuss how patriarchy and cultural norms suppress the feminist spirit in African societies. This provocative book challenges readers to rethink feminism within an African context.

4. Be a Revolution by Ijeoma Oluo

HarperCollins – 30 January 2024

From the bestselling author of “So You Want to Talk About Race,” Ijeoma Oluo examines various societal structures, including education, media, labour, health, housing, and policing. She advocates for intersectional racial equity and encourages revolutionary thinking.

5. Revolutionary Acts: Love & Brotherhood in Black Gay Britain by Jason Okundaye

Faber & Faber – 7 March 2024

Jason Okundaye shares the stories of seven older gay Black British men, highlighting their struggles, political battles, and joyful celebrations. This book sheds light on their resilience during the AIDS epidemic and their contributions to the LGBTQ+ community.

6. Brutalism by Achille Mbembe

Duke University Press – 9 January 2024

Achille Mbembe draws parallels between the architectural style of Brutalism and our current global situation. He uses Afro-diasporic thought to counteract the totalising influence of capitalism by fostering solidarity and nurturing a new planetary consciousness.

7. The Rebel’s Clinic: The Revolutionary Lives of Frantz Fanon by Adam Shatz

Bloomsbury – 18 January 2024

This searing biography of Frantz Fanon explores his short but impactful life and ideas. Adam Shatz brilliantly examines Fanon’s revolutionary thoughts and their relevance today. Preorder available.

8. Where We Come From by Aniefok Ekpoudom

Faber and Faber – 18 January 2024

Aniefok Ekpoudom provides a social history of British rap and grime, chronicling the genre’s evolution and cultural impact. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary music and cultural history.

9. Breaking Point – David Hundeyin

Breaking Point – January 25 2024

A bestseller by Roving Heights, follows a Nigerian investigative journalist who seeks asylum in Ghana after his relentless exposés make him a target of the corrupt Nigerian establishment. Despite being hunted, he continues his work, facing death threats, detentions, and near rendition. In Oxford, he learns the far reach of Nigerian kleptocrats. Over three years, he navigates high-risk investigations and a dangerous personal life, including a violent marriage that threatens his survival.

These books are essential reads for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the diverse narratives that shape the African continent and its diaspora.

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