The African Union (AU) has designated 2025 as the year for “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” but the potential for this initiative to either uplift or undermine the continent remains a subject of debate. Some argue that prioritizing historical grievances is unhelpful in a world grappling with urgent crises such as climate change, economic instability, and poverty. They believe Africa should focus on immediate development rather than looking to the past. Others contend that justice is timeless and must be pursued regardless of past failures, particularly given the enduring economic and social inequalities rooted in colonialism and slavery.

The demand for reparations is not new. Precedents exist in global history, such as Germany’s imposed reparations after World War I, which contributed to economic turmoil and ultimately the rise of the Nazi regime, culminating in World War II. African nations, individually, have also sought reparations in the past, but the AU’s approach is different. As a unified voice for the continent, it acknowledges the lasting damage caused by the transatlantic slave trade, colonial exploitation, and neo-colonialism. The AU’s initiative seeks to address these injustices through structural and economic reforms rather than mere financial compensation.

Dismissing colonialism as irrelevant ignores its profound and lasting impact on Africa. Colonial-era economic structures and political systems continue to shape the continent’s realities today. Trade agreements, for example, often favor former colonial powers, limiting Africa’s industrialization and economic self-sufficiency. The global financial system is still largely controlled by institutions established during the colonial era, leaving African economies at a disadvantage. Addressing these imbalances is not about dwelling on the past, it is about dismantling barriers to equitable development.

The push for reparations extends beyond financial compensation. It encompasses systemic transformations that could reshape global power dynamics. This includes advocating for fairer trade terms, debt relief, and the re-evaluation of international financial policies that disproportionately burden African nations. Another crucial aspect is the repatriation of cultural artifacts looted during the colonial era. These artifacts, currently housed in European museums, are not merely historical relics; they are symbols of identity, heritage, and cultural sovereignty. Their return is a fundamental step in restoring Africa’s historical narrative.

The AU’s focus on reparations also extends beyond historical injustices to address contemporary global disparities. One of the most striking examples is the continued financial and political dependence of some African nations on their former colonial rulers. West Africa, in particular, has long suffered from external influence, with European nations maintaining control over key resources and security structures. However, recent developments indicate a shift. Several West African states have begun asserting their independence, demanding reparations, and reassessing their political and economic ties. This shift represents a crucial step toward self-determination and economic sovereignty.

Economic independence remains at the heart of the reparations debate. Many African economies still rely on exporting raw materials, a pattern established during colonial rule. Former colonial powers often retain control over these industries, extracting wealth while African nations struggle to industrialize. Addressing colonial legacies means promoting economic diversification, strengthening local industries, and implementing policies that prioritize African citizens’ economic well-being. Reparations should, therefore, be seen as part of a broader strategy to shift Africa from a resource supplier to a global economic force.

The psychological impact of colonialism also cannot be ignored. The legacy of racism and discrimination continues to shape societal structures and individual identities. Generations of Africans and people of African descent have endured systemic prejudice, which affects social mobility, economic opportunities, and mental well-being. Acknowledging these deep-seated issues and promoting cultural pride and historical awareness is essential for healing and progress.

Beyond reparations, the AU must strategically position itself in international forums to amplify Africa’s voice in global decision-making. Aggressively pursuing greater representation in institutions like the United Nations Security Council, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is crucial. The AU’s membership in the G20 is a significant step in this direction, providing African leaders with a platform to influence global policies on trade, climate change, and economic development. By shifting Africa’s role from passive recipient to active contributor in shaping global economic policies, the AU can push for reforms that align with the continent’s interests.

Revisiting the colonial past is not about seeking pity or assigning blame—it is about acknowledging historical injustices and taking concrete steps toward a more just and equitable future. Ignoring the past allows its consequences to persist, while confronting this legacy provides an opportunity to dismantle structural inequalities. The AU’s reparations initiative is a starting point, but rhetoric alone will not be enough. Tangible actions, strategic diplomacy, and economic reforms must follow. The question remains: will Africa seize this moment to transform its future, or will the pursuit of reparations remain a symbolic gesture with little real impact?

By Bethelhem Fikru, Researcher, Horn Review