The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Claver Gatete is making a strong case for reparative justice for Africa that goes beyond just financial compensation.
In addition to the financial compensation from the West to Africa, the Executive Secretary of UN ECA says there should be a more transformative agenda that will guarantee the economic prosperity and sovereignty of the African continent.
Claver Gatete made this case when he spoke at the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union in Ethiopia, Addis Ababa. The session was held under the theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”
The call for reparations has gained significant momentum in recent years, with leaders from the African Union, the Caribbean, and other impacted regions making formal demands for compensation.
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has been at the forefront of this movement, actively exploring legal avenues to secure financial restitution for the descendants of enslaved Africans.
Nations such as Barbados and Jamaica have also advocated for direct payments and debt cancellations as essential components of reparative justice.
Amidst these calls, the Executive Secretary of the UN ECA is supporting these demands justifying that colonialism, exploitation, and the slave trade have played a major bane in Africa’s development.
He says the impact of the injustices, from the transatlantic slave trade to colonial exploitation robbed Africa of its people, resources, and dignity while still shaping modern-day economic inequalities.
Speaking at the session, he called for a comprehensive economic transformation that addresses structural barriers perpetuating Africa’s economic dependency.
Among a number of demands in addition to the financial compensation, Mr. Gatete says there is a need for a reformed global financial system that can benefit Africa. Africa remains marginalized in global financial decision-making, often dictated by institutions that do not adequately represent the continent. Gatete called for a restructured financial system that ensures equitable representation of African nations in shaping economic policies.
He is further calling for harnessing the potential of the African Continental Trade Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade and industrialization.
Fostering partnerships with the African diaspora, Gatete says is key to promoting economic collaboration in addition to accelerating African integration through the implementation of the AU Protocol on Free Movement of Persons to enhance regional cooperation.
Despite possessing about 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, the continent earns only a fraction of its earnings. Raw materials are exported cheaply and processed abroad. UN ECA chief says African governments must also prioritize value addition to ensure that they retain the majority of the earnings to benefit their people.
The stance of Claver Gatete sets the stage for a deeper continental conversation on how Africa can move beyond historical grievances to build a self-sufficient and empowered future.
