Exploring the Legacy of Henri Lopes: A Reflection on the Rabat Conference

 

In the heart of Rabat, Morocco, on 23 April 2024, a significant conference was hosted by the Language, Literature, and Culture Laboratory, affiliated with the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. The occasion was no ordinary event; it was a commemoration of the life and contributions of the Congolese writer, Henri Lopes – a man whose influence transcended the realms of literature into diplomacy and politics. Henri Lopes, renowned for his literary works, diplomatic finesse, and political engagement, left an indelible mark on the African intellectual landscape. His multifaceted persona, encompassing roles as a writer, diplomat, and politician, garnered admiration and reverence from scholars and writers across the continent.

Among the distinguished attendees was Professor Patrice Mwepu, who is a professor of French Studies, Deputy-Dean of Humanities Faculty, and Director of the Confucius Institute at Rhodes University. Reflecting on Lopes' multifaceted career, Professor Mwepu remarked, "He was not just a minister or a writer; he was a symbol of resilience and intellectual prowess, navigating through the corridors of power while maintaining a prolific literary output."

Professor Mwepu's keynote address, titled "Entre l'authenticité et la métamorphose: Lopes à la recherche des Afriques" (Between Authenticity and Metamorphosis: Lopes in quest of Africas), delved into the thematic richness of Lopes' oeuvre.  Emphasising the plurality of Africas, Professor Mwepu highlighted the nuanced exploration of identity and belonging in Lopes' works. Central to Professor Mwepu's discourse was the examination of the thematic contrasts within Lopes' narratives, juxtaposing profound philosophical inquiries with socio-political commentary. Notably, Lopes' adeptness at interweaving tragedy with humour served as a testament to his literary finesse, captivating readers while navigating complex socio-political terrain.

Moreover, Professor Mwepu scrutinised Lopes' interrogation of ontological and historical paradigms, drawing from works such as "Le Lys et le Flamboyant,"  "Sur l’autre rive," "Le Chercheur d’Afriques," "La nouvelle romance," and "ribaliques." These inquiries, ranging from the nature of selfhood to the dynamics of jus soli, underscored Lopes' enduring relevance in contemporary discourses. The conference, hosted at the Université Mohammed V de Rabat, attracted delegates from across the globe, underscoring the global resonance of Lopes' legacy. Noteworthy attendees included ambassadors representing diverse African nations, including South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, and Congo, symbolising the pan-African significance of the event. In essence, the conference served as a poignant tribute to Henri Lopes, illuminating the enduring relevance of his literary works and intellectual inquiries. As scholars and critics continue to engage with Lopes' works, his legacy remains a beacon of inspiration, guiding generations towards a deeper understanding of African identity and heritage.

 

By Urielle Kayumba, Journalism and Media Studies Student