Through Fire With Water: The Roots of Division and the Potential for Reconciliation in Africa

This collection of essays presents fifteen case studies of African countries whose recent past has been shaped by conflict. Its exploration of the historical roots of violence and of the potential for reconciliation and justice reveals the experiences of communities and nations that are struggling to build a peaceful, prosperous future. It is essential reading for students of development, politics, and history, and for the general reader who wants to know more about current affairs in Africa. The case-study countries include: Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Swaziland, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

The contributors are all researchers and analysts of the African countries under consideration and include Tyrone Savage, S’fiso Ngesi, Joseph Rahall, Adewale Segun Banjo, Ricky Khaukha, Manelisi Genge, Susanna Streleau, Edmond Tiku, Mokete Lawrence Pherudi, Gape Kaboyakgosi, Irae Baptista Lundin, Antonio da Cost Gaspar, Shupikayi Blessing Chimhini, Yeki Mosomothane, and both editors, Erik Doxtader and Charles Villa-Vicencio. The preface was written by Justice Richard Goldstone.

Erik Doxtader is an assistant professor of rhetoric at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is a Senior Research Fellow in the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation.

Charles Villa-Vicencio is the director of the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation. He was formerly the National Research Director of the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission.