The Richness of African Culture

Africa is a continent of breathtaking diversity, where culture is prominent and respected among its people. It is seen in the vibrant festivals, heard in the wisdom of proverbs, and felt in the deep sense of community that binds families and societies together. 

But what makes African culture so profound and enduring? Is it the traditions passed down through generations? 

In My African Woman by Adeleke Oyenusi, we see a striking portrait of African culture through the life of Biyi, a young man born into a traditional Yoruba family in Nigeria. His journey from the sacred customs of his homeland to the structured, modern world of England highlights the enduring richness of African identity.

The Soul of African Culture

In many African societies, life is treated as a continuous thread connecting the living, the dead, and the yet-to-be-born. For Biyi's family, the gods were not just mythical figures but protectors, providers, and gatekeepers of destiny. After years of childlessness, Biyi's parents offered sacrifices and prayers to these deities before his birth, demonstrating the deep reverence for ancestral guidance central to African spirituality.

This connection between the physical and spiritual worlds defines African culture. From libations poured in honour of ancestors to elaborate naming ceremonies that bestow identity upon newborns, African traditions celebrate the idea that no one walks alone—each person is a continuation of those who came before.

Preserving History and Identity

One of the most defining aspects of African culture is its oral tradition. Before the written word, history was preserved in stories, proverbs, and songs passed down from elders to children. In My African Woman, Biyi grows up immersed in the folklore and wisdom of his people, where lessons about honour, destiny, and resilience are taught through storytelling.

These stories hold communities together. They teach morals, instil pride, and ensure no history is lost. Even as Biyi later moves to England and embraces a Western education, the stories of his homeland remain embedded in his soul, proving that culture, once ingrained, never truly fades.

The Core of African Society

African culture is built on the foundation of community over individuality. From childhood to adulthood, a person is not just raised by their immediate family but by an entire village. Responsibility is shared, and success is celebrated collectively.

In My African Woman, Biyi's life is shaped by this deep sense of communal belonging. His birth was a moment of joy for the entire community. His struggles and triumphs are intertwined with those around him, illustrating the African philosophy of Ubuntu: "I am because we are."

Even when Biyi leaves Nigeria for England, this sense of belonging does not diminish. His eventual reunion with Comfort and his son signifies the unbreakable ties that bind Africans to their roots, no matter where they go.

Cultural Resilience in a Changing World

African culture is also known for its ability to adapt while maintaining its essence. Biyi's journey reflects this resilience. Despite immersing himself in Western education and lifestyle, he cannot completely sever his connection to home. 

Whether through music, fashion, language, or rituals, African culture continues to thrive globally. It is seen in the rhythmic beats of Afrobeats music, the bold patterns of Ankara fashion, and the powerful storytelling in African literature and cinema. Even in the diaspora, African traditions live on, proving that culture is not confined to a place—it is carried in the hearts of those who cherish it.

My African Woman is a tribute to the depth, resilience, and beauty of African culture. It reminds us that while cultures may evolve, true identity is never lost.

For anyone who has ever felt the pull of their heritage or the struggle of balancing tradition with change, Biyi's story serves as a powerful testament: African culture is timeless, unshakable, and deeply rooted in the essence of its people.

Learn more about African culture here.