Renowned historian, Prof Daniel Abwa, dies.

Prof Abwa was one of the leading figures in Cameroonian historiography. Born around the 1950s, he devoted his life to research and teaching, becoming a reference in the study of Cameroon’s colonial history. 

After his advanced studies in history, notably in France, he returned to Cameroon to join the University of Yaounde I, where he rose through the ranks to become head of the history department.

His expertise in Franco-Cameroonian colonial relations and his meticulous analysis of archival documents contributed to a better understanding of the political, social and economic dynamics of the colonial era.

He was particularly well known for his work on local resistance to the colonisers, social change during the colonial era and the key figures of the period.

Professor Abwa, it should be said, was not only a teacher, but also a mentor to generations of Cameroonian students and researchers. 

The former Head of the History Department at the University of Yaounde I, published numerous books and scientific articles during his career. His works are said to be the basis for research on colonial history in Cameroon and Africa in general. 

The deceased’s contributions to international conferences and collaborations with historians around the world had reinforced his reputation as one of the most rigorous and influential historians of his time.

According to reports, in addition to his academic contributions, he played a role in the revision of school history textbooks. The work sort to integrate a more accurate view of the colonial period to younger generations. 

He was convinced that understanding the past was essential to building the country's future. His death, according to many who knew him, leaves a big gap in the teaching sector.

His tireless work to preserve and disseminate Cameroon's historical heritage, sources say, will benefit generations yet unborn.

Prof Abwa is already being described as one of the few who brought to life the stories of those who lived under the colonial yoke. He also said to have encouraged deep reflections on the impact of the colonial era on contemporary Cameroon.

In 1977, at the age of 24, he was recruited at the University of Yaounde I. He was in turn made assistant to the Head of the History Department, Head. Prof Abwa later became Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Letters and Humanities. 

He was at one time Director of Academic Affairs and Cooperation, Vice-Rector in charge of Teaching, Professionalisation and Development of Information and Communication Technologies, and Secretary General at the University of Yaounde I.

Since August 1, 2019, he had been serving as Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and International Relations, FSSRI, at the Protestant University of Central Africa. His funeral program is yet to be made public.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3248 of Thursday October 03, 2024