The Leeds University Centre for African Studies (LUCAS) is convening an international conference entitled `Peasants, Liberation and Socialism` which will be hosted by the University of Leeds. The conference will examine key issues in Africa’s contemporary development as well as reflect on the work of Professor Lionel Cliffe. Lionel Cliffe retired as Professor of Politics at the University of Leeds in September 2001. The conference will explore issues relating to his contribution to African Studies over a career of more than 40 years working in and on Africa. Key themes include taking stock of issues of agrarian reform, nation building and liberation struggles.