Seminar og boglancering: The rising middle class in Africa (København)

In recent years, the growth of a middle class has been a key feature of the ‘Africa Rising’ narrative. At this DIIS seminar Jason Sumich (University of Essex) will present his new book, which explores the formation of the middle class in Mozambique. 

The book answers questions about the basis of the class system and the social order that gives rise to it. 

Drawing extensively on his fieldwork, Sumich argues that power and status in dominant party states like Mozambique derives more from the ability to access resources, rather than from direct control of the means of production. 

By considering the role of the state, he shows how the Mozambican middle class can be both bound to a system they benefit from and alienated from it at the same time. 

The book also explores the ways in which the middle classes attempt to reproduce their positions of privilege, highlighting the deeply uncertain futures that they face.

After Jason Sumich presents his book, Professor Ricardo Soares de Oliveira (Oxford University) will serve as a discussant. Furthermore, there will be an opportunity for the audience to ask questions.

 The seminar is organized in collaboration with the Centre of African Studies, University of Copenhagen, in connection with a seminar on ‘Lusophoning Southern African Studies’, partly funded by the Embassy of Portugal in Denmark, the Centre of African Studies, the Journal of Southern African Studies, and DIIS.

Speakers

Jason Sumich, Lecturer, Essex University.

Ricardo Soares de Oliveira, Professor, Oxford University.

Helene Maria Kyed, Senior Researcher, DIIS.

Programme

15.30-15.40: Welcome and presentations
Helene Maria Kyed

15.40-16.15: Presentation of the book: “The Middle Class in Mozambique: The State and the Politics of Transformation in Africa”
Jason Sumich

16.15-16.30: Discussant
Ricardo Soares de Oliveira

16.30-17.00: Q & A with the audience
Chaired by Helene Maria Kyed

17.30-18.00: Reception

Practical information

The seminar will be in English.

Participation is free of charge, but registration is required. Please use our online registration form no later than Sunday 9 December 2018. 

Sign up