Africa is a complex continent that always has us asking more questions than finding answers. We are conscious of the fact that this complexity often leads us to simplifying matters. It is common to speak of African culture, as also occurs with music and literature.

For years now, intellectuals, cultural and social movements from around Africa have been demanding that we not perceive it as a uniform whole, which simply does not exist, a perspective that moreover negates the enormous cultural, historical and social diversity of Africa.

We want to address these ideas in this year’s Social Forum meetings titled The Africas of Africa. A title, which apart from inspiring the meetings, also defines the rhythm of our hearts as we work to prepare the event. You will hear our hearts beating soon!