The 38th African Union (AU) Summit, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, has reignited a critical conversation: the pursuit of reparations for the historical injustices of slavery and colonialism. This year’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” underscores the AU’s commitment to addressing the enduring legacies of exploitation that have long hindered the continent’s progress.
For centuries, Africa’s vast resources and people were extracted to fuel the development of Western nations, leaving behind a legacy of underdevelopment and systemic inequality. The transatlantic slave trade and colonialism not only stripped the continent of its wealth but also imposed artificial borders and governance systems that continue to foment conflict and economic disparity. The repercussions of these historical injustices are evident today in the form of economic imbalances, social fragmentation, and stunted development.
Critics of reparations often point to the complexities of history, including the involvement of some African entities in the slave trade. However, this perspective overlooks the overarching reality: European colonial powers orchestrated and benefitted from these systems of oppression on an industrial scale. The primary drivers were not African participants but European colonisers who imposed their will through violence and coercion. Acknowledging this fact is essential for any genuine discourse on reparative justice.
The AU’s call for reparations is not merely about financial compensation; it is a multifaceted approach aimed at healing and restoration. This includes formal acknowledgments of past wrongs, policy reforms to dismantle neo-colonial structures, and initiatives to return looted cultural artefacts. Such measures are vital for restoring dignity and fostering a sense of identity and pride among African populations.
Moreover, the pursuit of reparations is intrinsically linked to contemporary global dynamics. As geopolitical tensions rise and alliances shift, particularly with the unpredictability of global leadership exemplified by figures like US President Donald Trump, Europe’s strategic interests may align more closely with Africa’s aspirations. Embracing reparative justice could pave the way for stronger partnerships based on mutual respect and shared values, enhancing global stability and economic growth.
The journey towards reparations is undoubtedly fraught with challenges, including resistance from former colonial powers and political opposition within African nations. However, the moral imperative is clear. Reparations represent a tangible step towards rectifying historical injustices, promoting healing, and empowering African nations to chart their own destinies free from the shadows of colonial exploitation.
As the AU advances this agenda, it is incumbent upon the global community to engage constructively, acknowledging the past and supporting Africa’s right to justice and self-determination. Only through such collective efforts can we hope to build a world rooted in equity, respect and shared prosperity.
Baba Abdullahi Machina, a political scientist, wrote from Damaturu