The present moment—the “now”—has long been revered in spiritual, philosophical, and psychological traditions worldwide. Across diverse cultures and belief systems, it stands as a gateway to inner peace, empowerment, and healing. By focusing on the here and now, individuals gain the ability to shape their lives with clarity and intention, free from the burdens of the past or the anxieties of the future. For Africa, this understanding of the present holds immense relevance, not only in addressing the continent’s historical wounds but also in tapping into the potential that exists within its people and communities today.
The Universality of Living in the “Now”
The concept of living in the present moment is not bound to any one philosophy or religion; it is a universal truth recognised by ancient wisdom and modern psychology alike. In Buddhism, mindfulness is central to achieving enlightenment, urging practitioners to let go of attachment to the past and future. Similarly, in Stoic philosophy, individuals are encouraged to accept the present moment as it is, focusing on what they can control rather than being overwhelmed by uncertainty.
Western psychology, particularly in the realm of cognitive-behavioural therapy, echoes this idea by teaching people to focus on the present as a way of managing anxiety and depression. In everyday life, being present allows individuals to engage fully with the tasks and experiences in front of them. Whether it’s being fully immersed in a conversation with a loved one or tackling a challenging project, the “now” offers a sense of presence and purpose that transcends the distractions of what came before or what might come after.
A powerful everyday example is when one sits with an elderly relative, as they recount stories from their youth. While the stories themselves are rooted in the past, it is the present moment—the act of listening, engaging, and sharing—that creates a deeper connection. The joy in such moments comes not from reliving old memories but from being fully present in the act of remembering together.
Africa’s Unique Connection to the Present Moment
Africa’s relationship with the “now” is profoundly shaped by its history. The continent has experienced colonialism, exploitation, and ongoing neo-colonial forces that still impact its societies today. However, focusing solely on the past risks trapping Africa in a narrative of victimhood and stagnation. Embracing the present moment offers an opportunity for healing, growth, and the reclaiming of Africa’s destiny.
Take, for example, Wangari Maathai’s Green Belt Movement in Kenya. Faced with widespread environmental degradation, Maathai did not wait for sweeping policy changes or massive global movements. Instead, she acted in the present by mobilising women to plant trees, one tree at a time, one day at a time. These small, incremental actions became a catalyst for larger environmental and social change. By focusing on what could be done now, rather than being paralysed by the enormity of the challenge, she created a legacy that continues to inspire today.
In many African nations, the power of the present has become even more critical. For instance, Rwanda’s rise from the ashes of genocide in 1994 stands as a testament to how a nation can focus on healing and rebuilding by choosing to live fully in the present. While acknowledging its painful history, Rwanda has refused to remain chained to it. By focusing on reconciliation, infrastructure development, and future-facing policies, the country is a shining example of what can happen when attention is paid to what is possible now.
This approach mirrors what individuals across Africa face daily. A young entrepreneur in Lagos, Nigeria, might look at the country’s political instability or economic challenges and feel disillusioned. But by focusing on what can be created or solved today—whether that’s launching a small tech startup or finding new ways to market local goods—the potential to transform one’s immediate surroundings becomes real. The present moment offers the clarity and focus needed to make meaningful, albeit incremental, progress. This is where the power of “now” becomes not just a philosophical ideal but a practical tool for change.
The Weight of History and the Freedom of the Now
Africa’s past, marked by colonisation, exploitation, and systemic disenfranchisement, casts a long shadow. For many, the weight of history feels too heavy to shake, and the memories of past injustices shape the collective psyche. However, living in the present does not mean forgetting or dismissing history. It means acknowledging the lessons of the past while embracing the possibilities of today.
Consider the traditional African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This speaks to the importance of collective action, grounded in the present moment. Africa’s future cannot be built on solitary efforts or fragmented approaches. Instead, it will require a collective, present-minded effort that recognises the importance of working together in the here and now.
Rwanda’s national reconciliation efforts offer another powerful example. After the genocide, the country could have easily been trapped in a cycle of revenge and retribution. However, by focusing on national healing and fostering unity in the present, Rwanda was able to rise from the ashes and forge a new path forward. The present moment became a space for healing, allowing individuals to acknowledge the pain of the past without allowing it to define their future.
For Africa as a whole, focusing on the “now” offers a means of overcoming the paralysis that often comes from contemplating the continent’s complex history. By acting in the present—whether that’s investing in education, supporting local businesses, or embracing digital transformation—Africa can shape its own destiny, free from the chains of the past.
African Spirituality and the “Now”
African spirituality, particularly in the understanding of time and interconnectedness, offers profound insights into the importance of the present. Unlike the linear Western concept of time, many African cultures view time as cyclical, where the past, present, and future are deeply intertwined. This cyclical understanding of time is reflected in the concept of ubuntu, the recognition that “I am because we are.” In this worldview, living in the present is not just an individual endeavour but a collective one that acknowledges the interconnectedness of all people.
In traditional African communities, the present is where the living, the ancestors, and future generations meet. Every action taken today has reverberations in the past and the future. Thus, living fully in the “now” is an act of honouring ancestors while also building a legacy for future generations.
This spiritual perspective can be seen in everyday African life, whether through rituals, festivals, or community gatherings. When people come together to celebrate, mourn, or even simply share a meal, they are engaging in the present moment in a way that honours the past and builds a foundation for the future.
Conclusion: The “Now” as Africa’s Path to the Future
The present moment is a universal concept with profound implications for individuals and societies alike. For Africa, the power of the “now” offers a means of healing past wounds while creating space for future progress. By living in the present—whether through environmental efforts, reconciliation initiatives, or daily entrepreneurial activities—Africans can reclaim their narrative and shape their destiny.
The lessons of history will always inform the present, but it is in the “now” that Africa’s future will be written. By focusing on what can be done today, Africa stands at the threshold of a new era, one in which its people and communities rise, not as victims of their past, but as creators of their present and architects of their future.
In a world that constantly pulls us into regret over the past or anxiety about the future, the present moment remains our greatest opportunity. Africa, with its rich spiritual heritage and enduring resilience, is uniquely positioned to harness the power of “now” as a catalyst for change, progress, and unity. The present moment is Africa’s new horizon.