UNECA Executive Secretary calls for reparative justice and economic sovereignty at African Union Executive Council session

At the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), held under the theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” Mr. Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), delivered a compelling address on the historical injustices faced by Africa and the urgent need for reparative justice. The session, which took place ahead of the AU Summit, brought together African leaders to discuss strategies for addressing the enduring legacies of slavery, colonialism, and systemic inequality.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Gatete expressed gratitude to the African Union Commission for prioritizing the theme of reparations and commended AU Chairperson Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat for his leadership. He also acknowledged the commitment of African Heads of State and Government to champion the reparations agenda in their respective countries, signaling a unified continental resolve to seek justice for Africa and its diaspora.

He highlighted the devastating impact of the transatlantic slave trade and colonial exploitation, which he described as having robbed Africa of its people, resources, and dignity, and argued that these historical injustices have left a legacy of structural inequalities that continue to plague the continent today. “The transatlantic slave trade and colonialism were not just historical events; they were systems of exploitation that have shaped the global economic order,” Gatete stated. “Africa’s wealth was extracted to build other nations, while our people were left impoverished and marginalized.”

He then pointed to the stark disparities in the global economic system, noting that despite Africa’s vast resources—including 30% of the world’s mineral reserves and 65% of arable land—the continent accounts for only 3% of global trade and 1% of manufacturing output. Gatete attributed this imbalance to entrenched structural barriers that perpetuate economic dependency and hinder Africa’s development.

He reaffirmed UNECA’s commitment to supporting African nations in their pursuit of reparative justice and economic transformation. “UNECA stands ready to work alongside African countries to address these challenges and unlock the continent’s full potential,” Gatete said.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye