On the 19th of June, I had the incredible opportunity to speak with Stéphane Kotto, the founder of the African Plant-Based Alliance, a groundbreaking international non-profit organization created in March 2023 dedicated to reintroducing a plant-based food system in Africa. This interview follows my recent article, which delved into the reasons, motivations, and benefits of such a transformative shift. During our conversation, Stéphane unveiled his inspiring journey, visionary outlook, and the noble mission driving his work.

About the African Plant-Based Alliance (APBA)

The alliance is rooted in the principles of Pan-Africanism, social justice, health, and the environment.

• An ecosystem of doers: The organization aims to build an ecosystem comprising volunteers, professionals, NGOs, investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals who are passionate about promoting plant-based foods in Africa.
• A center for education and resources: Their goal is to dispel myths and misconceptions by sharing engaging posts, videos, and other forms of communication on social media. Education plays a crucial role in addressing objections and forms an integral part of their approach.
  
• Acting on the demand and supply side: Furthermore, APBA strives to reduce the production and consumption of animal-based products. This involves collaborating directly with businesses and governments to enact laws and phase out intensive farming practices.
  
• Empowering and amplifying voices of Afro-vegans: Their mission is to promote and support remarkable initiatives and individuals who are driving positive change on the ground. The essence of the Alliance lies in amplifying their voices and ensuring their efforts are recognized.
  

Emma: What were the motivations behind the creation of the African Plant-Based Alliance (APBA)?

Stéphane: The motivations behind establishing the African Plant-Based Alliance (APBA) are diverse and strongly influenced by my personal journey. For many years, I had no awareness of the plant-based lifestyle and consumed a significant amount of meat and dairy products. However, my health problems became a turning point in my life. When medical professionals explained that the excessive intake of salt and dairy could be the cause of my kidney stones, I embarked on thorough research to understand the root causes of my health issues.

In an effort to find a solution, I decided to experiment with my diet and completely eliminate dairy products for a day. Surprisingly, my health problems vanished overnight after struggling for six months. This experience opened my eyes to the remarkable health benefits of a plant-based lifestyle. Over time, I transitioned to a vegan lifestyle and also became aware of the environmental advantages associated with this way of living.

Moreover, working in the fashion and luxury industry, specifically in the watch sector, exposed me to the detrimental impact these industries have on animal welfare. To meet the demands of my clients while addressing these concerns, I sought alternative solutions to the use of exotic skins and leather. As a result, I proposed the creation of high-quality vegan leather bracelets for the International Watch Company. Upon recognizing my ability to effect change within large organizations and witnessing the positive impact they could have, I made the decision to transition into the non-profit sector. This led me to work for esteemed organizations such as The Vegan Society and Vegan Friendly.

These transformative experiences led me to contemplate deeply, realizing my desire to promote a plant-based lifestyle in Africa. As someone from Cameroon, I hold a profound connection to my cultural heritage, and I believe that Africa is at a crucial juncture in its history to make pivotal decisions regarding its food system.

Thus, the creation of the African Plant-Based Alliance (APBA) was motivated by my desire to combine my industry expertise, personal experience as a plant-based consumer, and my attachment to Africa. I aim to contribute to the development of sustainable food alternatives, encompassing economic, health, and environmental aspects while preserving Africa’s cultural richness.

E: What is your opinion regarding the objections related to the cultural and economic factors that could hinder the development of your movement in Africa?

S: In our life’s journey, we are shaped by the imprints of our childhood, which influence our thoughts and beliefs. The real challenge lies in liberating ourselves from these mindsets. Objections often arise due to a lack of awareness regarding our own heritage, preventing us from fully grasping the fact that our roots were primarily grounded in plant-based practices before colonization disrupted our way of life. Animal consumption served as a secondary option, reserved for hunting or fishing when necessary, during specific seasons or when plant-based resources were scarce. Even today, certain tribes or communities rely on animal consumption purely for survival in times when plant-based alternatives are limited.

Contrary to common assumptions, Africa already boasts a multitude of individuals who wholeheartedly embrace the plant-based movement (see Thrive Philanthropy). Regrettably, these inspiring stories often go unnoticed in Europe and North America, where a prevailing notion persists that veganism is a Western concept confined solely to urban areas. Such misconceptions stem from a certain level of prejudice, reflecting a “bigotry of low expectations” that suggests only Europeans or North Americans possess the intellectual capacity to comprehend the principles of animal rights. However, the depth of compassion for animals extends beyond geographical boundaries, as there are people worldwide who ardently advocate for animal rights and exhibit genuine empathy toward them.

E: What is your perspective on the term “black veganism” coined by Aph and Syl Ko?

S: To me, veganism represents a universal concept that surpasses differences in skin color and enables individuals to acknowledge the significance of respecting animals and allowing them to live freely. However, it is important to recognize that different populations may require varied approaches in order to be convinced, considering their diverse histories and concerns.

The evident connection between various forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, and specism, stems from the belief that certain lives are considered inferior based on arbitrary factors. It is crucial to establish this connection so that each group comprehends the interconnectedness of these oppressive systems. By doing so, we can address cognitive dissonance and foster an understanding that condemning our oppressors’ behaviors while engaging in the same oppressive behavior towards other species is contradictory. It is therefore imperative to align our actions with our values, promoting respect, compassion, and empathy towards all beings.

In Africa, a growing pan-African movement is emerging, advocating for the preservation of our cultural identity. Through exploring our histories and delving into tribal philosophies, individuals can discover that veganism aligns with our ancestral heritage. Many African principles, such as ubuntu and maat, emphasize justice, equity, morality, and respect for others and the natural world. Thus, veganism becomes a path for respecting all beings, regardless of their species. By engaging in research and embracing our cultural identity, we can recognize that veganism is not an ideology imposed by the West but rather a means of reclaiming the cherished values of our ancestors.

E: You brought up the topic of spirituality, which reminded me of the research conducted by Solaire Denaud (@afro_ecologiste) on the Rastafari movement. Considering this, what connections do you observe between veganism and spirituality?

S: Yes, one compelling example is the Rastafari movement with the Ital diet, where adherents embrace a livity lifestyle driven by spiritual motivations. Their aim is to achieve harmony with nature and the environment, recognizing the interconnectedness of all things as energy. They firmly believe that consuming negative energy, stress, or participating in animal cruelty contradicts their spiritual principles. As a result, veganism becomes a form of resistance against exploiting animals and serves as a manifestation of their spiritual beliefs.

In Africa, spirituality holds significant importance, and there are additional instances within various African cultures of respect, kindness, and compassion for all living beings. However, these principles often clash with our everyday actions, particularly regarding meat consumption. This dissonance underscores the inconsistency between our spiritual convictions and our behaviors.

From a religious perspective, some individuals subscribe to the notion that a higher power has granted humans the right to consume animals. Yet, upon closer examination of religious texts, there are passages that can be interpreted as advocating for a plant-based diet. For instance, the story of the Garden of Eden portrays the first humans, Adam and Eve, exclusively consuming fruits and vegetables. Consequently, veganism can align with specific religious teachings.

It is essential to acknowledge that interpretations of spirituality and religion vary among individuals. While some may find justifications for animal consumption within their beliefs, others perceive a conflict between spiritual principles and the infliction of violence upon animals.

E: Considering the exploration of the relationship between gender and food by Nora Bouazzouni, particularly in the context of resistance against veganism, I am intrigued by the connections that may exist between virility and veganism. What connections can you identify between the concepts of masculinity and veganism?

S: I would appreciate an explanation of what is considered masculine about being breastfed by a cow as an adult. Secondly, I believe that 90% of people would be unable to kill an animal if given a knife, so it would also require an explanation of what is considered masculine about hunting in the aisles of a supermarket. Furthermore, what is the benefit of consuming these products at the age of 40 when facing health issues? In my view, a strong man is precisely someone who does not blindly follow the crowd. It is a man who stands up for what is right, who holds values and principles. The marketing industry has done an excellent job since the 1950s in targeting men towards meat consumption.

E: What upcoming projects do you have in the works?

S: There are several projects in the pipeline. One of them is a documentary that aims to provide an African perspective on the subject. Another project involves creating a directory of places and conducting interviews with Afro-vegans, with the goal of sharing their stories.