### The Pan -African heritage of Stokely Carmichael and Miriam Makeba: a reflection on identity and history
In a global context where identity and historical issues are at the heart of the debates, Elara Bertho’s book, “A Pan -African couple: Miriam Makeba and Stokely Carmichael in Guinea”, offers an enlightening perspective. Beyond the personal history of these two emblematic figures, this work invites to a deep reflection on Pan-Africanism, Exile and identity, while replacing Conakry at the center of African imaginaries.
#### Stokely Carmichael and Miriam Makeba: a symbiotic association
Stokely Carmichael, African-American activist born in 1941, was one of the central figures of the civil rights movement in the United States. His vision of pan -Africanism allowed him to develop ideas that exceeded American borders. For his part, Miriam Makeba, South African singer, is best known for her hard fight against apartheid, using her voice as a powerful instrument of social change. Their meeting at the end of the 1960s and their choice to live in Guinea have a particular meaning, because they symbolize a common commitment to justice, equality and human dignity.
Guinea, under the direction of Sékou Touré, was then a lighthouse for many African and Afro-descendants activists. The country offered refuge to those who flee from oppression and injustice, while cultivating a distinct political identity. The story of Carmichael and Makeba is therefore also that of a shared dream of unity and solidarity within the world of black world.
#### Replace Conakry at the Imaginary Center
Beyond committed personalities, Elara Bertho’s book poses the fascinating question of Conakry’s place in the Pan-African story. Indeed, while cities like Accra and Nairobi are often put forward for their historical roles, Conakry also deserves to be recognized for its contribution to struggles for freedom and self-determination in Africa.
This highlighting of Conakry recalls how crucial it is to consider all the places that have worn the torch of Pan -Africanism. This raises questions about how story is narrated. Why are some cities and figures more highlighted than others? What narrations are valued or minimized in dominant discourse?
#### An invitation to reflection
Elara Bertho’s work is not limited to relating a romance between two emblematic figures; It raises essential questions about our way of perceiving identity, commitment and history. At a time when contemporary social movements are inspired by past struggles, understanding the links between these personalities and the implications of their commitment is fundamental. What is the inheritance we build today on the foundations laid down by figures like Makeba and Carmichael?
#### for an inclusive pan -Africanism
It is relevant to wonder if today’s Pan -Africanism succeeds in integrating the diversity of voices and experiences, both on the continent and in the diaspora. Elara Bertho’s book can be seen as a call to expand this dialogue, to welcome a multitude of stories and to rethink the way in which we share our collective history.
It is also essential to recognize that the commitment of Carmichael and Makeba, beyond their love, symbolizes an incessant quest for freedom, a question always relevant. By thinking about their inheritance, we must also question our contemporary commitments and the values that we choose to defend.
### Conclusion
“A Pan -African couple: Miriam Makeba and Stokely Carmichael in Guinea” serves as a starting point for a multitude of reflections on Pan -African identity, commitment and history. By replacing Conakry in the field of imagination, Elara Bertho reminds us that each city, each figure which fought for dignity deserves to be recognized. While debates on identity, history and struggles for equality persist, it is vital to embrace the diversity of stories that constitute our collective heritage.