Inheritance by David Mulwa

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Inheritance book by David Mulwa

Inheritance starts off on a very good note. A king who has realised that the white people they welcomed are not here as guests, but want to rule them. I think that’s the situation most African chiefs, Kings and rulers found themselves in when they welcomed the white people at the start of the 20th century. But as is norm the Colonialists kill him and put a leader they like. Someone hated by the community who’ll listen to them.

And the play moves to that period after independence. When the president lives lavishly on loans taken on the country’s name, but the people are poor. Where the people work and work, but what they earn isn’t even enough for school fees. Where the people who point that out are jailed.

And then comes the financiers. Again, this is something I loved about the book. Most books on colonial matters lay the blame on the neocolonial masters such as US, UK, French,..they are still in charge, but I think I World Bank and IMF did more to harm Africa directly during that period after independence. Like they were the vehicle used to bring Africa down to her knees so that those countries could continue benefitting from our resources. Like two twins working together to beat Africa.

I found that thoughtful. And the concept of those financiers is explained well, when they come to negotiate with Lacuna on giving him another loan knowing fully well that the previous loans have ended up in his pockets.

But they now suggest Structural Adjustment Programs. And of course coming at a time when the president is very unpopular, they lead to a revolt.