In Memoriam: Kenneth W. Harrow

We deeply mourn the passing of Kenneth W. Harrow, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Literature and Film Studies at Michigan State University where he taught for 52 years. A specialist in African cinema, Professor Harrow has had a massive impact on African literary and cultural studies, consistently pushing against tired orthodoxies and easy approaches to understanding African cultural forms. His research has been roving and daring, motored by a love for African literature and film, intellectual curiosity, and seemingly endless energy. He published six single-authored books, 10 edited and co-edited volumes, and approximately 100 articles and book chapters. He was an active presence in the Society for Cinema and Media Studies over the years, presenting frequently, as well as a member of the Black Caucus.

He also served as President of the African Literature Association and inaugurated its African Film Caucus. Along with many other awards, he most recently received the prestigious African Studies Association’s Distinguished Africanist Award in 2023. Professor Harrow created the African Studies Association’s Film Prize to promote African films and filmmakers and served as the Chair of the Prize Committee for several years. Over the years, he helped bring many African filmmakers to the US to screen and promote their art, including John Akomfrah, Jean-Pierre Bekolo, Tsitsi Dangarembga, and Djibril Diop Mambéty. He was a tireless advocate and beloved advisor for countless colleagues and students around the world. In the coming weeks, a tribute will be posted on the SCMS website.