Finding ground and other stories: ALPC Anthology of short stories on Land in Africa

Abstract

This Anthology of Short Stories stems from the recognition that land governance in Africa has inspired artists by providing them with thematic and stylistic tools drawn from land such as symbolism, imagery, landscapes, and language, among others. Equally important is the way the arts have shaped land governance policies and practices. Arts, culture and heritage are part and parcel of land policies in Africa. The stories in this collection capture and show the complexity of land issues in Africa which include political, economic, social, cultural, spiritual and environmental dimensions. In subtle ways, the writers present these perspectives by reflecting the lives of ordinary people and how they are affected by decisions made about land. The stories touch on a wide range of themes including gender and women’s rights to access land, agriculture, land related conflicts, climate change, urbanization, and food security among others.