African speculative fiction is redefining how we imagine the impacts of technology, culture, and policy. A new seminar series, Applied African Speculative Fiction, is bringing together writers, academics, and visionaries to explore these themes.
This innovative project, a partnership between the Imperial Centre for Environmental Policy, the University of Nairobi, the African Speculative Fiction Society, and the International Black Speculative Writing Festival, uses storytelling as a tool for research, activism, and policy development.
The series has already hosted several free online seminars, with more exciting events planned for the months ahead.
Spotlight: Dilman Dila’s Seminar This January
Recently, acclaimed writer and filmmaker Dilman Dila led a thought-provoking seminar titled: “Can Science Fiction Engineer Social Development of Africa?”
In his talk, Dila explores how Africa’s cultural heritage and traditional knowledge systems can inspire new models for governance and social development. By looking to Africa’s past—its divination systems, rain-makers, and indigenous innovations—Dila envisions a future free from the constraints of capitalism and colonial narratives.
“Unless we Africans embrace our past and are proud of it, we’ll always remain beggars,” Dila asserts.
With an impressive career that spans both literature and film, Dila’s accolades include nominations for the PKD Awards, BSFA Awards, and the Commonwealth Short Story Prize. His stories, such as Where Rivers Go to Die and The Future God of Love, weave speculative narratives with African cultural traditions.
What’s Next? Upcoming Seminars
The seminar series continues in February with Tanzanian-born writer Eugen Bacon, who will present Art and Science: The Marriage of Figaro. Her session will delve into the intersections of creativity and scientific innovation.
Earlier Seminars: Highlights
For those who missed earlier events, the series has already featured groundbreaking discussions, including:
These seminars offer valuable insights into how narrative evidence can inspire real-world change.
To stay updated, subscribe to the Applied African Speculative Fiction newsletter for notifications about future seminars.
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
