2025 Africa Day: Leaders Celebrate Resilience, Peace Efforts

“Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” is the theme for the 2025 edition of the Africa Day. Commemorative activities to mark the Day were organised at the Ministry of External Relations on May 26, 2025. The Minister Delegate to the Minister of External Relations in charge of Cooperation with the Commonwealth, Felix Mbayu, chaired the event, at the behest of Minister Mbella Mbella. In attendance were some members of government and the African diplomatic corps accredited to Cameroon. With the courtyard of the Ministry embodied in the colours of the African Union and resident African countries, the theme explained by the Minister Delegate reminds everyone of a difficult past and the efforts of the founding fathers to ensure that the errors of the past are not repeated. Indeed, the commemoration was an occasion to reflect on the major axes of Agenda 2063 (The Africa We Want) by constructing a prosperous and inclusive Africa, led by Africans. In his opening statement, Minister Mbayu noted that the Africa Day is an opportunity for Africans to celebrate the continent’s rich cultural heritage, as well as efforts and resilience by leaders towards peace and development for the people. Its international recognition, the Minister said, provides a platform for crosscultural dialogue, raising awareness and promoting diversity. He adds that the theme of this year is designed to dispel the myth, misconceptions and stereotypes usually attributed to the continent. “It is scripted to highlight the diversity and potentials that the African Union embodies. The emphasis of reparation goes beyond monetary value. It is more of a restoration to dignity. They can therefore agree that no amount of money can replace colonialism, slave trade, apartheid and other forms of inhumane treatment,” the Minister stated. The commemoration of the Day thus served as an avenue of charting a path for the future, especially as the past cannot be changed. At a time wh...