Nobutu’s policy of “authenticity” encouraged Africans to take pride in their African heritage.

Answer 1

It sounds like you're referring to Mobutu Sese Seko, the former president of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo). Mobutu promoted a policy known as "authenticity" during his rule. This policy aimed to encourage Africans to embrace and take pride in their African heritage, culture, and traditions. As part of this policy, Mobutu encouraged the rejection of colonial influences and the adoption of African names, clothing, and customs. The goal was to foster a sense of identity and cultural pride among the people of Zaire. This was important to him because in the late 19th and early 20th centuries the DRC experienced negative things like:

1. Exploitation and Forced Labor: Colonizers brutally exploited Congolese for rubber and ivory, subjecting them to forced labor, violence, and harsh treatment.
2. Loss of Autonomy and Resources: Colonization resulted in loss of political autonomy and control over resources, leading to economic disruptions.
3. Violence and Human Rights Abuses: Belgian authorities committed atrocities like forced labor, mutilations, and mass killings, causing immense suffering.
4. Cultural Disruption: Indigenous cultures and traditions were disrupted, and local governance structures were dismantled or altered.
5. Economic Exploitation: Resources were extracted for colonial powers, hampering local industry and infrastructure development.
6. Division and Conflict: Arbitrary colonial borders caused ethnic tensions and conflicts, impacting regional stability.