Dear All,
We’re pleased to announce the first session of the SPT maintenance and
philosophy of technology special interest group for 2025 on Thursday 13th
February 18-1915 UTC +1. In this session, we’re excited to welcome David
Drengk (Ruhr University Bochum) who’ll be sharing his research exploring
the evolution of bicycle repair in Southern Malawi. David Drengk is a
historian of technology who specialises in the reciprocal relationship
between humans, the natural environment and technology in Southern and
Western Africa. If you'd like a zoom link for the talk, please email me at
mark@markthomasyoung.net
Best,
Mark
"From Lakes to Markets: Bicycle repairers and fish trade in Southern
Malawi"
David Drengk (Ruhr University Bochum)
Thursday 13th February 2025 (18-1915 UTC +1)
Abstract: This presentation explores a compelling chapter in the history
of bicycles in Nyasaland, later known as Malawi, emphasizing the pivotal
role of bicycle repair shops along local fish trade routes in southern
colonial Malawi during the first half of the 20th century. During this era,
fishing activities in the waters of the British Protectorate of Nyasaland
flourished, particularly along the shores of its largest lakes, Lake Nyasa
and Lake Chilwa. As the number of fishermen increased, so too did their
catches. When bicycles were introduced in the 1890s, they were
predominantly used by elite social groups within the colonial
administration. However, by the 1930s, bicycles became an essential tool
for local fish traders, enabling them to transport their goods to urban
markets in the Southern Province. The growth of these trade routes spurred
the establishment of bicycle repair stations along the way. Returning
migrant workers and soldiers also contributed to this evolution, bringing
with them bicycles and financial resources that accelerated the spread of
cycling and increased the prominence of repairers and their workshops. This
talk examines the intricate relationship between fish traders, the natural
landscapes of Lake Chilwa and the Shire River, and bicycles. It shines a
spotlight on the vital yet often overlooked contributions of bicycle
repairers, placing their practices and stories at the heart of this
historical narrative.
(In order to avoid confusion regarding the timing of the talks - the
following table clarifies when the talks begin in different locations)
New York: 12:00
San Francisco: 09:00
London: 17:00
Amsterdam: 18:00
Mark Thomas Young
Postdoctoral Fellow
University of Oslo
https://uio.academia.edu/MarkThomasYoung
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