Leaders from Africa and the Caribbean, meeting at the Second Africa-CARICOM Summit, have called for a united front to demand justice, reparations, and the dismantling of systemic injustice from former colonial powers.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), urged a joint demand for the acknowledgment of historical crimes, tangible steps toward reparations, and the dismantling of systemic injustice.
Similarly, CARICOM Secretary-General Carla Barnett echoed this sentiment, describing the summit as a “homecoming” and a critical step in a renewed partnership to address historical injustices, operationalize existing agreements, and collectively advocate for reforms in global systems.
Speaking at the Second Africa-CARICOM Summit in Addis Ababa today, the AUC Chairperson stressed the importance of a united front on these issues.
The chairperson said: “Let us jointly demand that former colonial powers acknowledge historic crimes, offer meaningful reparations and dismantle structural and systemic injustice,” describing the summit as a watershed moment, marking a significant turning point in the collective aspirations of Africa and the Caribbean.
The Chairperson emphasized the historic importance of the gathering, stating that future historians will note how Africa and the Caribbean renewed their commitment to honoring their ancestors, uplifting future generations, and reclaiming a shared destiny rooted in freedom, justice, and unity.
He reaffirmed that the African Union stands firmly with Caribbean nations in their pursuit of reparatory justice and true liberation, stressing that by working together, the two regions can forge a path toward healing and reconciliation, underscoring their solidarity in addressing historical injustices.
CARICOM Secretary-General Carla Barnett described the summit as a “homecoming” for the Caribbean, a chance to reconnect with Africa after centuries of separation caused by colonialism.
Expressing gratitude for Ethiopia’s hospitality and the support of the African Union Commission, she stated that the summit strengthens ties based on a shared history and the struggle for freedom.
Barnett highlighted that since the first summit, significant progress has been made to operationalize the CARICOM-AU Memorandum of Understanding.
She noted that commitments in areas like health, transportation, and trade are well underway, including a health development partnership and an initiative with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), which address priority areas for sustainable development.
However, challenges remain, particularly regarding climate change and the need for joint advocacy for reform in international financial systems, she elaborated.
The secretary-general also emphasized for amplifying voices demanding for compensation for the injustices of colonial rule and the transatlantic slave trade while pursuing reparatory justice for Africans and people of African descent.
Moreover, inspired by ideals of Pan-African ideals; the summit would deepen relations between CARICOM and Africa, setting a decisive message of cooperation and determination for future collaboration, Barnett underscored.
BY ENA
