Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: french
Song Meaning of “Françafrique” by Tomawok
Françafrique tells the story of Africa’s history of colonisation and exploitation by the French. The song paints a vivid picture of the effects of centuries of colonial rule, from the effects of oppressive and exploitative taxation and resource extraction, to the lack of economic development in Africa resulting from the draining of its resources. The chorus of the song which repeats the lines “on n’a pas livré tout c’qu’on a gagné” ( we didn’t give back what we took) speaks to the inequity of the situation and the ongoing exploitation of Africa by Western powers.
The song serves as an indictment of the French and its involvement in the exploitation of Africa and as a call to action for people to recognise and take steps to end the injustices. It highlights the realities of the past, but speaks to the need for African people to take control of their destiny and reclaim their independence. The message of the song is clear, the exploitation of Africa must end as the effects are still being felt today.