These are Africa’s seven independence leaders who were intellectuals in their own rights

It is a thankless job to insist on the difference between “intellectual” and “intelligent”. One word conjures an understanding carried by the other even if what is meant is particularly different.

The two words are, of course, linked in a way, and may sometimes even be sufficiently synonymous but they are not the same.

For purposes of this list, “intellectual” refers to the high-mindedness scholars tend to display on topics. In books, speeches and other literature, intellectuals tend to be particular about their argument, in the end espousing a whole philosophy.

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So granted that all of Africa’s independence leaders were intelligent, we may not say they were all intellectually-inclined.

This list may not include some of your favourites but you are invited to make your case as to why they should be there.