Namibia celebrates Africa Day with call for reparations, unity

WINDHOEK, May 25 (Xinhua) -- Namibia on Sunday commemorated Africa Day 2025, marking the 62nd anniversary of the African Union.

"Since its inception in 1963, the then Organization of the African Unity, now known as the African Union (AU), has been dedicated to advocating for reparations and justice for historical crimes committed against Africans and people of African descent," Namibian Vice President Lucia Witbooi said in a statement issued in Windhoek, the country's capital.

"May 25 embodies the spirit of resilience, solidarity, and unity among Africans in their historic resolve to realize their inalienable right to self-determination and to free themselves from the yoke of colonialism," she said.

According to Witbooi, this year's theme, "Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations," is particularly fitting and relevant as Africans pursue dignity, destiny, economic freedom, and independence.

Citing the AU's participation in the 2001 United Nations World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance, where the Durban Declaration and Program of Action acknowledged the tragedies of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade, Witbooi said it is necessary for victims to have access to justice.

In a direct reference to Namibia's pursuit of reparatory justice, Witbooi confirmed ongoing discussions and negotiations with Germany regarding the genocide committed in Namibia from 1904 to 1908.

"These negotiations are ongoing and aim to achieve a comprehensive resolution that adequately addresses Namibia's rightful claim for reparations and meets the needs of the affected communities," she said, adding that by adopting this year's theme, "we, as Africans, acknowledge the significance of inclusive dialogue and cooperation in advancing restorative justice."

The vice president also highlighted Agenda 2063, the continent's development blueprint. "We are now in the Second 10-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063, which is a manifestation of the collective will and determination of the African people to shape their destiny and reaffirm the African dream of unity, dignity, and prosperity for all. This is in line with the objectives of the AU theme for this year," she noted. Enditem