In "I am an African" story... Explain what Mbeki means when he says "we act out the foolish deeds of the theatre of the day."

When Mbeki says "we act out the foolish deeds of the theatre of the day," he is referring to the way in which Africans are often portrayed and perceived by the rest of the world. He is suggesting that Africans are often seen as playing a role or putting on a performance that conforms to stereotypes and misconceptions about their culture and identity.

Mbeki is highlighting the fact that Africans are often reduced to simplistic and one-dimensional caricatures, rather than being seen as complex and diverse individuals with their own unique experiences and perspectives. By using the metaphor of a theatre, he is emphasizing the idea that the portrayal of Africans is often scripted and controlled by external forces, rather than being an accurate reflection of their true selves.

Overall, Mbeki is critiquing the way in which Africans are often marginalized and misrepresented in the global discourse, and calling for a more nuanced and authentic understanding of African identity and culture.