Long-owed injustice merits reparations - African Heads of Missions advocate

African Ambassadors have intensified calls for the payment of reparations to African countries whose citizens have been victims of colonisation, human rights abuse and racial injustice. 

The Vice-Dean of the Group of Africa Head of Missions in Ghana, who is also the Ambassador of Togo to Ghana, Awoki Panassa, said, “Africa's call for just reparations is an expression of a long-owed debt of justice, restoration and recognition of the atrocities committed by colonialists”.

He stressed that the call for the payment of reparations also represented a call “for reconciliation and unity among Africans to courageously confront the psychological and historical scars of slavery, colonialism, neocolonialism, apartheid, marginalisation and the erosion of African culture, languages and identity”.

Mr Panassa affirmed that it was about taking responsibility for the partition of Africa and the fragmentation of once-powerful ethnic groups, which today had led to recurring conflicts, often externally mediated, that systematically slowed the development of the African continent.

The Vice-Dean was speaking at the launch of the photo exhibition on the theme: “Justice for Africans and people of African descent through reparations” in Accra.

It was organised by  the Group of Africa Head of Missions in collaboration with the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU).

The ceremony was attended by a host of Mission Heads in Ghana from other Africa countries as well as other jurisdictions. 

Ghana’s effort

The Togolese Ambassador to Ghana highlighted Ghana's prominent role in pursuing justice and reparations for Africa.

He said Ghana hosted two significant conferences on reparations in 2022 and 2023, reaffirming the need for restorative justice.

Mr Panassa also stated that President John Dramani Mahama's statements on the matter at the launch of this year’s theme for the AU Day at the 38th Ordinary Session of African

Heads of States in Addis Ababa emphasised the devastating effects of historical injustices, including the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, apartheid, and neocolonial exploitation, which had led to economic disparities, social inequalities and systemic discrimination.

He said the ultimate goal, as outlined in the African Union's Agenda 2063, was to create an integrated, peaceful and prosperous continent.

The Vice-Dean said the group would continue to press home their demands for reparations and justice, adding that African ambassadors and leaders were working to mobilise political will, foster partnerships, and raise awareness about the importance of addressing historical injustices.

Photo exhibition

The event also witnessed the display of photographs in the aisles, depicting horrifying history of African countries during the era slave trade and colonisation.

From the capture of slaves, transportation of slaves bound in chains, torturing and killing of slaves who refused as well as some wars fought by various kingdoms and nations with the colonial master.

It also showed photographs of some early African nationals and their activities across the world, leading to the independence of the entire continent.

The exhibition also showcased historic relics and sites from various countries to relive the dark and tragic history of the African continent.