On May 24, 2025, ENA reported from Addis Ababa that the African Union celebrated Africa Day 2025 with a fresh appeal for justice, solidarity, and collective advancement.
During the event, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who serves as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), gave an inspiring speech. He reflected upon Africa’s past and emphasized the necessity of taking decisive actions towards achieving a fair and thriving future.
The theme for this year, “Achieving Justice for Africans and People of African Heritage Through Reparations,” pays tribute to those who endured the hardships of slavery and colonialism. It also upholds the rights of Africa and its diaspora community to seek truth, justice, and restitution. As stated by the Chairperson, “Although justice and reparations continue to be delayed, they should not go unaddressed; thus, Africa shall not allow itself to be controlled by historical suffering.”
Africa keeps dedicating itself and striving for liberation from strife, underdevelopment, and warfare; he further noted that the continent is progressively shaping a future marked by peace, prosperity, and unity.
Youssouf emphasized Africa’s key resources: a burgeoning young populace, extensive cultivatable land, substantial mineral deposits, and plentiful renewable energy sources. Given that its population is projected to surpass 2.5 billion by 2050, Africa isn’t just seen as the continent of tomorrow; it stands as the driving force behind worldwide change.
The Chairperson also highlighted the strength of African economies, as numerous countries had made significant strides in macroeconomics and even experienced double-digit growth before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He commended the dynamism of African youth and women, who are leading community transformation and innovation across the continent.
The changing role of Africa in global governance was highlighted as a key theme in the speech. The continent’s inclusion in the G20 was celebrated as “a much-earned involvement” and seen as an acknowledgment of Africa’s significance on the world stage.
“We have a responsibility as Africans,” he stated, “to protect our assets and focus on enhancing their value via groundbreaking programs such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The continent should not continue to be overlooked in international geopolitical discussions.”
To conclude, the Chairperson delivered an emphatic appeal for action: “Allow us to strengthen our common principles and assert ourselves confidently on the world platform. Pan-Africanism emerged from the aspirations and resolve of our ancestors, as well as astute planning. We should pay tribute to this heritage through decisive and collective efforts.”
On the occasion of Africa Day 2025 celebrated throughout the continent and among the diaspora, the African Union urged all Africans to embrace their heritage proudly, to face injustice bravely, and to mold the continent’s future with assurance and dignity.
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