Introduction

E.O. Wilson defines science as "the organised, systematic enterprise that gathers knowledge about the
world and condenses the knowledge into testable laws and principles" in his book, Consilience (WILSON
1998, 58). According to this perspective, science is the deliberate human attempt to have a thorough
grasp of the natural world's history and functioning, with visible physical evidence serving as the
foundation of that understanding.This definition captures the overall spirit and essence of science as
well as what may be broadly referred to as scientific. We set out on a trip that reveals the amazing
knowledge systems and scientific accomplishments of prehistoric African civilizations. Africa, with its rich
history and numerous civilizations, has significantly contributed to various scientific fields that are often
overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream narratives.

ANCIENT MATHEMATICS: In ancient mathematics, we find the remarkable mathematical systems

developed by civilizations such as the Egyptians. The Egyptians not only had a profound understanding
of basic arithmetic but also developed advanced mathematical concepts, including geometry and
algebra. The construction of the pyramids stands as a testament to their mathematical prowess,
showcasing their ability to accurately calculate angles, measurements, and proportions.

ASTRONOMY: African civilizations demonstrated a deep understanding of celestial movements and

phenomena. The Dogon people of Mali, for example, possessed intricate knowledge of the Sirius star
system, including the existence of its companion star, Sirius B, which was not confirmed by Western
astronomers until centuries later. This highlights the sophisticated astronomical knowledge that existed
within African cultures.

Furthermore, traditional African medicine offers a wealth of knowledge and practices that have been
passed down through generations. Traditional healers, often referred to as herbalists or shamans,
possess an intricate understanding of medicinal plants and their healing properties. These healers have
developed effective remedies for various ailments, using plants, roots, and other natural substances.
The knowledge of traditional medicine in Africa is a testament to the deep connection between humans
and nature, as well as the importance of holistic approaches to healthcare.

By shedding light on these lost sciences, we not only honor the accomplishments of ancient African
civilizations but also challenge the narrative that portrays Africa solely as a passive recipient of
knowledge from other parts of the world. It is crucial to recognize and appreciate the intellectual
contributions of African cultures, as they have shaped our collective understanding of the world.

Nevertheless, one of the challenges that traditional African science faces, according to Akpan, is the lack
of an “attitude of free enquiry and openness of mind to criticism” (AKPAN 2010, 19). Akpan’s claim is
that the traditional African scientist has not moved beyond the level of personalization and
esotericization of knowledge. This claim also concerns the inability of the traditional African scientists to
rationally explain their phenomena and show how they arrive at their scientific conclusions. These are
claims which connote that the method that the traditional African scientists employ is shrouded in
secrecy to the extent that their knowledge of science is not displayed in the public sphere.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the exploration of "The Lost Sciences of Africa" invites us to recognize and celebrate the
remarkable scientific achievements of ancient African civilizations. From advanced mathematics and
astronomy to traditional medicine, Africa's rich scientific heritage deserves recognition and appreciation.
By embracing and studying these lost sciences, we contribute to a more inclusive and accurate portrayal
of the intellectual prowess and ingenuity of African cultures throughout history. Let's embark on this
journey together and uncover the hidden treasures of African scientific knowledge!