Family in Africa: Opportunities an Challenges. Opening Remarks

Abstract

As we start our short debate about family life in Africa which is quite a broad topic, allow me to make some observations that will facilitate further input and discussion. First, in our discussion we can use the definition of an African family as a group of people held together by blood ties (A. Tarimo, Applied ethics and Africa's social reconstruction, Nairobi: Acton Publishers (2005), p. 163.). Then, my presentation will oscillate around three areas of family: the cultural aspect of families in Africa followed by the social aspect. Finally I want to point out the fact that the whole concept of family in Africa is undergoing a tremendous change. Needless to say, each area of debate creates opportunities and challenges.