By: Alphanso G. Kalama

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – In a momentous address at the 38th Ordinary Summit of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai reaffirmed his nation’s unwavering commitment to justice, reparations, and sustainable development. Speaking for the first time as Liberia’s Head of State at the prestigious gathering, President Boakai emphasized the urgency of addressing historical injustices while outlining Liberia’s ambitious roadmap for national growth and regional cooperation.

The summit, hosted in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, saw President Boakai expressing profound gratitude to Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed and recognizing the transition in AU leadership, congratulating President João Lourenço of Angola on his election as AU Chairperson for 2025. He also lauded the efforts of outgoing AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat for his commitment to institutional reforms within the Union.

Advocating for Reparations and Historical Justice

With the 2025 AU theme focused on “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” President Boakai passionately called for a reckoning with the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, and systemic racism. He stressed that reparations are a vital step toward healing, reconciliation, and fostering unity across Africa and its global diaspora.

“Liberia firmly believes in the importance of reparations as a critical first step toward addressing the lasting legacy and impacts of these historical injustices,” President Boakai declared.

He underscored Liberia’s unique historical role as a nation founded by freed slaves, with 5% of its population being direct descendants of those who sought refuge in Africa. “As a nation that played a leading role in Africa’s liberation movements, Liberia stands as a natural advocate for reparations,” he asserted.

Liberia’s Commitment to Democratic Governance and Continental Leadership

President Boakai extended appreciation to the AU for its support during Liberia’s 2023 elections, where over 60 observers ensured a transparent process, reinforcing Liberia’s democratic stability.

He also highlighted Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for 2026-2027, expressing gratitude for the AU’s endorsement and seeking continued support. He pledged that Liberia, alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo—also vying for a seat—would champion key African interests, particularly on peace, security, gender equity, youth empowerment, and economic development.

The ARREST Agenda: Liberia’s Blueprint for Inclusive Development

Since assuming office on January 22, 2024, President Boakai has introduced the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, a comprehensive five-year plan focusing on Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. This initiative aims to modernize Liberia’s infrastructure, promote good governance, revitalize the economy, and empower citizens—especially women and youth.

“We look forward to continued collaboration with the African Union to address our shared challenges and opportunities,” Boakai noted, reinforcing Liberia’s role as a committed partner in advancing the Union’s vision for a prosperous and united Africa.

A Call for Unity and Progress

As Liberia positions itself as a driving force for justice, economic growth, and regional stability, President Boakai’s address at the AU Summit underscored the nation’s renewed engagement on the continental stage. His call for reparations, democratic reinforcement, and strategic development reflects Liberia’s dedication to shaping a brighter future for Africa and its people.

The Summit continues to deliberate on key continental issues, with leaders poised to make significant strides toward justice, economic progress, and sustainable developments.