At the close of the 13th High-Level Dialogue in Accra, Ambassador Perpetual Dufu, Coordinating Director for Multilateral and International Organizations, delivered a statement on behalf of the Government of Ghana, expressing “cautious optimism” for Africa’s future. The dialogue, preceded by pertinent forums on gender and youth, concluded with a constructive Call to Action emphasizing truth, justice, and accountability as fundamental to African statehood and progress.
Acknowledging Historical Injustices and Reimagining the Future
Ambassador Dufu highlighted the pervasive and lingering impact of colonial exploitation, enslavement, and systemic racism on African institutions, economies, and civic landscapes. She stressed that the discussions moved beyond merely acknowledging past traumas to actively reimagining and transforming these structures to reflect African identity and aspirations. The dialogue benefited from insights shared by former heads of state, distinguished scholars, civil society leaders, and passionate youth voices, all contributing to a renewed sense of purpose.
The dialogue achieved consensus on several significant outcomes. A strong commitment was expressed for the operationalization of a permanent African Union mechanism on reparatory justice, with a committee of experts set to be established. This mechanism is intended to provide enduring continental leadership on reparations, deemed “timely and essential” for collective progress.
Furthermore, the importance of civic space within the framework of African governments was highlighted. The dialogue underscored that true democracy embraces diverse opinions, supports journalism, and values the contributions of youth and marginalized groups, calling for robust protections, both articulated and enshrined in law, to safeguard civic freedoms.
The significance of political education was also reaffirmed as a fundamental element of state-building, essential for fostering legitimacy in institutions and empowering a citizenry informed about its rights and roles.
The 13th High-Level Dialogue warmly embraced the Diaspora and civil society organizations as invaluable partners, recognizing their contributions as vital and deeply rooted in shared traditions and experiences.
Ambassador Dufu noted the launch of two significant reports during the two-week dialogue: the 2025 African Governance Report and the State of CSOs in Africa Report. These publications, she revealed are intended to serve as crucial tools for informing budgetary decisions, shaping legislative initiatives, and guiding leadership at all levels across the continent.
She emphasized that the dialogue transcended historical reflection, focusing instead on addressing history through proactive engagement and action. She articulated a core message: “Africa’s future is not something to be inherited. It is something we must continue to actively work together to build.” This future, she asserted, must be built upon the principles of equity, truth, and uncompromising justice.
In conclusion, the ambassador reiterated a collective commitment to ensuring that the dialogue’s outcomes resonate not just in reports, but “profoundly within the everyday lives of the individuals” they serve. She stressed the importance of institutions embodying core values, leadership reflecting collective aspirations, and genuine and substantive justice serving as a foundational pillar for African states.
The Government of Ghana extended its appreciation to all distinguished guests from the continent and the Diaspora for their participation.
