On 6th Dec, 2024, Dr. Barryl Biekman, Chair of the African Diaspora 6th Region High Council (AUADS HIGH COUNCIL), delivered an impactful speech at the ongoing conference themed “Pan African Parliament Engagement with Civil Society, the Diasporas, and the Media: Fostering Pan African Synergies for Citizen Engagement and Reparative Justice.”

This significant event, taking place from December 5-8, 2024, in Dakar, Senegal, has gathered esteemed representatives from the African Parliamentary Press Network, the Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) of the African Union, and the Vice President of the Pan African Parliament, Honorable Lucia Passos.

In her opening remarks, Vice President Passos emphasized the critical need for African nations to create conducive conditions for attracting their diasporas. She acknowledged the exceptional work accomplished by the African diaspora in the past and underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to promote the full integration of Africa and its diaspora.

Dr. Biekman’s speech resonated with themes of unity, reparative justice, and the vital role of the Diaspora in Africa’s development. She underscored the significance of Diaspora engagement with civil society and highlighted the historical connection between the continent and its scattered peoples. Her dedication to fostering a spirit of collaboration was evident as she reflected on the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in building a united African future. She emphasized the vital role of the Europe Pan-African Coalition on Reparatory Justice, NCOBRA, and PARCOE in the broader reparations movement, highlighting the contributions of elder leaders who have been central to the struggle for reparations. She also underscored the importance of honoring these elders and ensuring they have a prominent voice in shaping the Program of Action for the proclaimed Diaspora Year 2025, in alignment with the principles of the Durban Declaration and Program of Action.

As discussions continue at this important conference, we look forward to more insights on how we can collectively work towards a more integrated Africa.