Addis Ababa: The 38th African Union (AU) Summit, opened on Saturday in Addis Ababa, has brought to the forefront a pivotal theme for the continent’s future: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.” As leaders from various nations of the continent and heads of international organizations gather to deliberate on this theme, their reflections underscore the urgent need for accountability, healing, and restitution stemming from historical injustices that have long plagued African societies.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, at the heart of the discussions is the acknowledgment of the deep scars left by colonialism, slavery, and systemic racism. These historical injustices have not only disrupted social and economic structures but have also instilled generational trauma in individuals and communities. During the opening of summit, leaders emphasized that true justice cannot be achieved without addressing these past injustices.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of reparations as a means of rectifying the wrongs of the past as the theme calls for a transformative process that acknowledges past harms and takes bold steps to right the wrongs caused upon us, upon society across the continent. The Premier said the theme for this year’s assembly also calls on us to heal the scare of historical injustices and overcome the lingering trauma that had longer hindered our progress. He stated ‘The demand for reparations is not about charity or financial aid. It is a call for justice,” indicating that the theme seeks to restore the dignity of millions and heal the deep scars of poverty, inequality and discrimination.
His words echoed the sentiments of many attendees who recognize that the journey towards true justice involves not just reparatory justice but also systemic changes that empower African nations and communities.
Furthermore, the President of Ghana, John Mahaam articulated the need for a united African front in advocating for reparations on the global stage. President Mahaam, has also emphasized the urgent need for stronger legal and institutional mechanisms at national, regional, and international levels to ensure reparations for the historical trauma inflicted on Africa.
He described the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, and neo-colonial exploitation as heinous crimes against humanity, noting that more than 12.5 million Africans were forcibly displaced, with at least 2 million perishing during the Middle Passage, the sea journey undertaken by slave ships from West Africa to the West Indies.
United Nations Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres for his part underscored that the world must never forget that Africa is the victim of two colossal and compounded injustices. The profound impact of colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade. He said the roots stretch back centuries, and the bitter fruit continues to affect Africans and people of African descent to this day. Hence, he underlined it is high time for reparatory justice frameworks to be put in place.
The leader, therefore, demanded justice for the historical trauma inflicted on global Africa as it is not just a conversation, but a reality.
The discussions at the summit also touched on the role of the diaspora. Several leaders pointed out that people of African descent around the world share in this struggle for justice and acknowledgment of their origins. They stressed the importance of fostering relationships with African diasporas to amplify their voices and experiences in discussions about reparations.
As the summit continues, the reflections of these leaders serve as a powerful reminder that the quest for justice extends beyond rhetoric; it is a call to action that requires commitment, solidarity, and an unwavering dedication to healing the wounds of the past.
The AU’s 2025 theme encapsulates the hope that Africa can lead the charge in redefining justice not only for its people but also for those of African descent across the globe, paving the way for a future where dignity, respect, and equity are paramount.
The messages echoed at the 38th AU Summit mark a significant step towards addressing the multifaceted layers of injustice faced by Africans and people of African descent, igniting a sense of urgency and responsibility among nations to work towards a more just and equitable future.
