Conference Report by Dr. Lois-Singa Metili (Associate Dean, School of Business Studies, Dar es Salaam Tumaini University)
The PhD Conference and Colloquium titled „Connected, Entangled, or Shared History? The Legacy of Colonialism and Mission from Tanzanian, German, and Swiss Perspectives“, held on July 18–19, 2025 at Dar es Salaam Tumaini University, brought together scholars, church leaders, civil society actors, and young researchers to explore the complex colonial and missionary past of East Africa. This interdisciplinary event sought to reexamine how colonial memory continues to shape contemporary Tanzanian, German, and Swiss societies.
Violent roots of German colonialism
The conference highlighted the violent roots of German colonialism in East Africa, emphasizing not only military aggression but also cultural and epistemic violence. Christian missionary efforts were a central focus, explored as both agents of colonial domination and potential sites of resistance. Through a series of thematic panels, presenters dissected how colonial and missionary legacies manifest today in physical landscapes, public memory, education, and religious practices.
Transgenerational memories of the Maji Maji War
Key panels included discussions on land tenure systems in Central Tanzania, restitution of human remains and sacred artifacts, colonial memory in urban spaces, and the evolving role of mission schools and churches. One of the most powerful panels examined transgenerational memories of the Maji Maji War and the use of media and archives in shaping colonial narratives. Presenters critically engaged with the concepts of „shared,“ „entangled,“ and „connected“ histories, acknowledging the asymmetry in colonial experiences and historical memory.
Decolonizing theology
Young scholars were given a prominent platform to present fresh perspectives, including case studies from Ghana, India, Myanmar, and Switzerland, linking global decolonial struggles to the East African context. The final sessions proposed practical paths forward, focusing on decolonizing theology and academic curricula.
Reimagining historical justice
The conference was both a scholarly forum and a collaborative space for reimagining historical justice. It emphasized the importance of acknowledging diverse historical experiences and creating dialogue between former colonizers and the colonized. Ultimately, the event challenged participants to move beyond romanticized or traumatic memories and work toward an inclusive, reconciled future rooted in critical reflection and shared responsibility.