African Philosophy Month: 3 November - 4 December 2025

Spanning across a multitude of societies, languages, and belief systems, African philosophy embodies the wisdom, values, and inquiries of generations. It is a dynamic tapestry of thought that reflects the interplay between the intellectual traditions across the vast and vibrant continent.

Deeply intertwined with spirituality, cosmology, and lived experience, African philosophies emphasise interconnectedness, communal ethics, environmental wisdom, and cultural diversity. These perspectives are not only central to understanding Africa’s past and present, but also offer indispensable insights for addressing contemporary global challenges. Engaging with African philosophy enriches universal debates on justice, sustainability, and human coexistence, while fostering greater intercultural dialogue, empathy, and inclusivity.

At the African Studies Centre Leiden, we recognise the importance of amplifying these intellectual traditions and ensuring that African philosophy is given the space it deserves in global academia. By hosting African Philosophy Month, ASCL provides a platform for exchange, reflection, and critical debate, connecting scholars, students, and the wider public with African thinkers and their contributions to worldwide discussions.

 

Date & Place

Event

Presenter

More information

2 October
16:00 - 17:30
ASCL Seminar Room

ASCL seminar “On Africa and colonial discourse: rethinking how colonialism is understood over time”

Muyiwa Falaiye

Event informationand registration

6 November
16:00 - 17:30
ASCL Seminar Room

ASCL seminar “When Africans speak”

Grace Ndjako

Event information and registration

13 November
15:00 - 16.00
ASCL Seminar Room

Book launch “Afrikaanse filosofie”

Pius Mosima & Henk Haenen

Book information

20 November
10:00 - 11.30
WUR Campus/Online

UNESCO World Philosophy Day

Olatunji Oyeshile

More information expected soon

26 November
18:00-20.30
Leiden University Auditorium

Film screening & discussion: documentaries on Sophie Oluwole

 

Louise Müller

Documentary information

4 December
18:00 - 19.45
Leiden University
Pieter de la Court

Stephen Ellis Annual Debate

Pascah Mungwini

More information expected soon

 

Organisers:

Machteld Oosterkamp & Madi Ditmars (ASCL)
Pius Mosima (LUCIP)

Photo by Kunj Parekh on Unsplash.