The transatlantic slave trade and colonial exploitation robbed Africa of its people, resources, and dignity, leaving behind inequalities that persist to this day, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Claver Gatete, told the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU) today. Addressing the meeting in Addis Ababa, which is focused on the theme "Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations," Gatete delivered a powerful call for reparative justice, highlighting the ongoing economic disparities faced by the continent and its diaspora.
Gatete argued that reparations must go beyond financial compensation and address systemic barriers within global financial systems, trade structures, and governance institutions.
He pointed to stark statistics illustrating Africa's economic disadvantage. Despite possessing vast mineral wealth and arable land, Africa accounts for a small fraction of global trade and manufacturing output. Gatete also criticized the unfair credit rating system that inflates borrowing costs for African nations, hindering investment and economic growth. He further noted the disproportionate impact of climate change on Africa, despite minimal contribution to the problem.
Gatete outlined five key areas for action:
Reform of the Global Financial Architecture: He called for debt restructuring, governance reforms in international financial institutions, and the establishment of an African-led credit rating agency.
Harnessing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): Gatete stressed the importance of fully utilizing the AfCFTA to boost industrialization, trade, and regional value chains.
Prioritizing In-Continent Value Addition: He demanded that Africa's mineral wealth benefit Africans first and foremost, rather than being exported in raw form.
Engaging the African Diaspora: Gatete proposed fostering economic and cultural partnerships with the diaspora, including investment platforms, heritage initiatives, and the restitution of stolen artifacts.
Accelerating African Integration: He urged the implementation of the AU Protocol on Free Movement of Persons to facilitate trade, knowledge transfer, and cultural unity.
Gatete concluded by affirming the ECA's commitment to working with AU member states to achieve economic sovereignty and secure a prosperous future for all Africans. The meeting underscored the AU's determination to pursue justice and reparations for the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Africa and its diaspora.