Africa must boldly defend its dignity and heritage — Chambas

The African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas, has urged Africans to resolutely defend their dignity, heritage, and identity, warning that the continent is becoming “too timid” in confronting both historical and present-day injustices.

Dr. Chambas made the call on Saturday, December 6, at a commemorative symposium organised to mark his 75th birthday at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC). In his address, he reflected on Africa’s standing in global affairs, pointing to centuries of exploitation, racism, and marginalisation.

He said Africans must no longer hesitate to assert their worth, stressing that the legacy of colonialism, slavery, neo-colonialism, and systemic racism continues to shape the continent’s experience, particularly in Europe and North America.

Dr. Chambas called on citizens, intellectuals, policymakers, and cultural leaders to take charge of Africa’s narrative and project it with confidence and pride. He commended cultural institutions such as the Pan-African Heritage Museum for their role in safeguarding and promoting African identity.

He emphasised the need for Africans to actively defend their history and heritage, warning against allowing external forces to denigrate the continent and its people, noting that current global developments make this responsibility even more urgent.

The former ECOWAS Commission President and United Nations diplomat also outlined a vision for Africa anchored in unity, human rights, peace, and stability, as well as the strategic use of its vast natural resources and youthful population.

He expressed optimism that through solidarity and self-determination, Africans can create a future built on dignity and prosperity, adding that collective commitment would enable the continent to thrive for generations to come.