In a landmark gathering that could reshape Africa's global position, leaders and activists from across the continent and diaspora converged in Accra to launch an ambitious new vision for justice and unity. The International Conference of the Pan-African Progressive Front (PAPF), held on November 21, 2025, marked a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for African empowerment.
Historic Gathering for Pan-African Solidarity
More than two hundred delegates from fifty-seven countries participated in the conference, which commemorated the eightieth anniversary of the historic Fifth Pan-African Congress. The event brought together representatives from Africa, the Caribbean, and the wider Black diaspora under the powerful theme "From Historical Memory to Economic and Political Justice."
The conference featured an impressive roster of senior participants, including Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama, who serves as the African Union's Champion for Reparations. Other notable figures included former Ghanaian President John Kofi Agyekum Kufuor, Congolese opposition leader Martin Fayulu, South Africa's influential labour voice and NUMSA General Secretary Irvin Jim, and Zambia's Socialist Party leader Fred M'membe.
From Symbolism to Concrete Action
After two days of intensive discussions focusing on political cooperation, continental unity, and historical accountability, delegates adopted the Accra Declaration - a comprehensive programmatic document outlining a detailed roadmap for shared action.
The declaration proposes establishing national, regional, and continental mechanisms to pursue broad-based political, economic, and restorative justice. It emphasizes the need for a global framework aligned with international principles of:
- Restitution
- Compensation
- Rehabilitation
- Non-repetition
Ouzeirou Mamane, President of the Pan-African Movement for Reparations, Justice, and Restoration of Historical Memory, highlighted the conference's practical significance. "It is very important that we have moved to practical steps," he stated, noting the gathering marked a decisive shift from symbolism to implementation.
International Recognition and Next Steps
The presence of United States Chargé d'Affaires in Ghana, Rolf Olson, signaled growing international engagement with Africa's calls for justice and structural reform. Participants viewed this diplomatic interest as evidence of widening acknowledgement of Africa's expectations regarding historical grievances.
Organizers described the event as a crucial step toward realizing the vision of Kwame Nkrumah, who famously insisted that Ghana's independence was meaningless unless tied to the liberation of the entire African continent.
The conference reinforced Accra's position as a historic center of Pan-African thought and activism. With the adoption of the Accra Declaration, Africa and its global diaspora are now charting a more assertive path that directly links historical memory with coordinated pursuit of political and economic justice.
