Midrand, South Africa – The African Union’s 2025 Theme of the Year, “Justice for Africans and People
of African Descent Through Reparations”, was the focal point of a high-level workshop held on February 24, 2025, at the Pan-African Parliament (PAP). Two distinguished leaders in the global reparations movement, Dr. Barryl Biekman and Dr. Tumenta Kennedy, delivered key presentations on advancing reparatory justice for African communities worldwide.

Dr. Barryl Biekman, Board Chairperson of the African Union African Diaspora 6th Region High Council, presented a comprehensive strategy titled “Reparatory Justice: A Multi-Dimensional Approach for African Reparations.” Her address emphasized the urgent need for African governments, diaspora organizations, and international stakeholders to adopt a unified and structured reparations framework. Dr. Biekman highlighted historical injustices and contemporary inequalities that necessitate a transformative, legally sound approach to reparations.

Dr. Tumenta Kennedy, Commissioner of the African Diaspora Development Agency (ADDA), followed with an insightful presentation on “Reparations: Developing an Integrated Framework to Accelerate the Process through Diaspora Diplomacy.” He underscored the strategic role of African Diaspora communities in advocating for reparations at international levels. His presentation laid out key mechanisms to enhance diplomatic efforts, economic collaboration, policy advocacy and institutions of change in pursuit of justice for African-descendant populations. The reparations integrated framework details ”who is going to do it and how are we going to do it” as explained by Dr. Kennedy.

“We have a new political reality of nationalism. We need a paradigm shift of multilateralism with people of African origin.” #YearOfReparations #PAPCommitteeSittings

Dr. Tumenta Kennedy

Dr. Kennedy also presented the expanded definition of Diaspora: “The African Diaspora consists of peoples of African origin living outside the continent or returnees without permanent residency or citizenship in an African country, irrespective of their citizenship and nationality and who are willing to contribute to the development of the continent and building of a united Africa and its Diaspora.”

Both leaders engaged in plenary discussions and expert panels, contributing to deliberations on best practices, legal frameworks, and the role of parliaments in facilitating reparations. Their expertise and unwavering commitment to reparatory justice reaffirmed the critical role of African and diaspora leaders in shaping policies that address historical injustices and forge pathways for economic and social restitution.

As the African Union advances the 2025 reparations roadmap, the insights from Dr. Biekman and Dr. Kennedy will be instrumental in shaping policies and initiatives that promote sustainable justice for African communities worldwide.

“The inclusion of the African diaspora in the Pan-African movement is a crucial step toward unity, justice, and reparations. Dr. Barryl Biekman’s address underscores the importance of engaging all people of African descent in shaping our collective future. The Sixth Region’s active participation strengthens the African Union’s mission for justice and economic empowerment. #YearOfReparations #PAPCommitteeSittings”