ADDIS ABABA– The African Union has called for continental unity and justice for Africans and people of African descent as part of this year’s Africa Day commemoration.
Delivering the official statement yesterday, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, urged African nations to move forward boldly while acknowledging the historical injustices of slavery and colonialism. He said this year’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” speaks directly to the need for truth, redress, and a shared commitment to building a future not defined by past pain.
Africa Day is observed annually on May 25 to commemorate the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now known as the African Union. In Eswatini, the day was marked by community dialogues and special radio and TV programmes reflecting on the country’s place in the African continent’s collective struggle and progress.
Speaking from Addis Ababa, Youssouf acknowledged that although reparations remain overdue, Africa is no longer a passive actor in its development journey. He described the continent as a rising force, pointing to its growing population—expected to surpass 2.5 billion by 2050—as well as its untapped agricultural and mineral resources, and renewable energy potential.
The AU Chairperson credited African youth and women as the pulse of the continent’s innovation and social transformation. He noted that many African economies had demonstrated resilience and strong growth before the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to recover steadily.
Africa’s entrance into the G20 was described as a recognition of its emerging importance in global governance. Youssouf challenged African leaders to stop exporting raw materials without value addition and to embrace initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to unlock the continent’s economic power.
In Eswatini, where youth unemployment and healthcare system pressures remain critical issues, the AU’s message resonated with ongoing national conversations about inclusive development and regional cooperation.
Youssouf closed his address by urging Africans everywhere to reclaim their narrative, take ownership of their future, and act decisively to protect the continent’s interests on the global stage.
Discussion about this post