The other Kenya: underground and alternative literature

Most literature available about Kenya today has been written from the point of view of imperialism or of the ruling class. Very little material representing the working people’s interests is available. There is also a scarcity of information about material on Kenya (and Africa generally) from the point of view of the working people. This is a reflection of the lack of control over the process of communication and mass media by the working class. Records literature of the other side ‐ the people’s point of view. Lists some important publications from the Kenyan underground which has been systematically issuing major documents and commentary on the ongoing struggle of the people for social justice and economic liberation. Counters the claim by some that there is no progressive material coming out of Africa. Indeed this literature is indispensable for historical research and in the struggle for true democracy. Without this material, the ideology of the ruling class remains unchallenged. Also includes other progressive material. The survey is partisan and no attempt is made to have a “balanced” view, as the ruling class point of view has adequate resources to propagate itself. Makes some recommendations for information workers.