Ask AI: Explain the meaning of modernization of Africa include references and citation

Modernization in Africa refers to the transformation of traditional societies to modern societies. This often involves changes in various aspects including economic, political, cultural, and social structures. It is uniquely characterized by the transition from agrarian-based economies, tribal political structures, and traditional cultural practices to industrial-based economies, democratic institutions, and the adoption of Western cultural values. Economic changes primarily center around the shift from agriculture to industry and commerce, as well as the adoption of capitalism (Lipset, 1959). For example, several countries in Africa are increasingly embracing technology and digitization in their economic activities, a move that has seen the rise of e-commerce platforms like Jumia (Ndemo, B., & Weiss, T. G. (Eds.). (2017)). Politically, modernization involves the transition to democratic systems and institutions, a trend that has gained traction in Africa since the late 20th century. Notable examples include the end of apartheid in South Africa and the wave of democratization in countries like Ghana and Kenya (Bratton, M., & Van de Walle, N. (1997)). Culturally, modernization in Africa has involved embracing Western culture and values, often leading to a hybrid of African and Western cultural practices. This is evident in sectors such as fashion, film, music, and even in the way of life (Barber, K. (2006)). Social changes encapsulate increased access to education, improved healthcare, and gender equality among other things. A good example is the increased enrollment of children, including girls, into schools across Africa (Lewin, K. M. (2009)). However, it's worth noting that modernization can also have negative impacts such as loss of cultural identity, increased social inequality, and environmental degradation. References: 1. Barber, K. (2006). Popular arts in Africa. African Studies Review, 30(03), 1-78. 2. Bratton, M., & Van de Walle, N. (1997). Democratic experiments in Africa: Regime transitions in comparative perspective. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press. 3. Lewin, K. M. (2009). Access to education in sub-Saharan Africa: Patterns, problems, and possibilities. Comparative Education, 45(2), 151-174. 4. Lipset, S. M. (1959). Some social requisites of democracy: Economic development and political legitimacy. American Political Science Review, 53(1), 69-105. 5. Ndemo, B., & Weiss, T. G. (Eds.). (2017). Digital Kenya: An entrepreneurial revolution in the making. London, UK: Palgrave Macmillan.