The ongoing Africa Dialogue Series 2025 is an opportunity for experts and resource persons all over the world, to exchange views and educate the public about topics of interest to the African continent, focusing on advocating the following three unique sub-themes:

 Subtheme 1: Learning from the Past: Colonialism, Transoceanic Slave Trade, Extractive Economies and Institutions in Africa;
 Subtheme 2: Understanding the Present: Economic and Social Justice for Sustainable Development; and
 Subtheme 3: Building the Future: Healing and Reparations towards Socio Economic Justice for Africans and People of African Descent.

The ADS is jointly organized by the Permanent Observer Mission of the African Union to the United Nations (AUPOM) and the United Nations Office of the Special Adviser on Africa (UN-OSAA) under the theme: "Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations », in alignment with the African Union theme of the year 2025.

Regarding the International Webinar on subtheme 1: Learning from the Past: Colonialism, Transoceanic Slave Trade, Extractive Economies and Institutions in Africa, held on 7 May 2025, keynote speakers discussed the effects of colonial rule on African nations and how they contributed to current socio-economic challenges, the human cost of the slave trade which also had profound psychological and cultural impacts, the importance of education in fostering understanding and reconciliation. The experts also exchanged views on how nations can learn from their histories to build inclusive, resilient societies, highlighting the role of youth and civil society in driving change and promoting historical awareness.

Speaking on behalf of Amb. Fatima Kyari Mohammed, Permanent Observer of the African Union to the United Nations, Mr. Salem Matug, Senior Political Officer stated that, “this year’s theme of the Africa Dialogue Series 2025, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparation”, calls for moving from reflection to concrete action. We must pursue reparative measures, legal, political, moral, and economic, that seek to restore not just material resources, but also memory, agency, and sovereignty. The role of institutions at the national, regional, and multilateral levels, is critical in supporting these transformative efforts through policies that address these enduring injustices”.

“Let us carry forward the insights shared today into our collective efforts, advocacy, and policy spaces”, concluded Mr. Matug.

It is worth noting that, this subtheme provided an essential lens through which to understand Africa's present and future, emphasizing the importance of historical context in shaping policies and societal norms.

Mrs. Esther Azaa Tankou | Head, Media and Information Division, Communication Adviser, Permanent Observer Mission of the AU to the UN | Information and Communications Directorate | E-mail: yamboue@africa-uinon.org, Tel: +251911361185 / +1 3478127195 (WhatsApp);
Mrs. Oumou Daou Koumoue I Communication Advisor I Permanent Observer Mission of the African Union to the UN I E-mail: Koumoueo@africa-union.org I Tel: +1 914 316 3726