ADDIS ABABA-
At the first edition of the Africa Tourism Dialogue, a stirring keynote address by Hon. Catherine Afeku, former Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Ghana, spoke powerfully on the need to implement the theme of the event, “Reparative Tourism: Advancing Justice, Economic Redress and Dignity for Africans and People of African Descent.”
The event, held on 6th November 2025 at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa, marked a historic collaboration between AITEC World and Africa Celebrates — a partnership Afeku described as “historic and timely.”
Setting the stage, Afeku provided a strong contextual background, reminding participants of the United Nations’ proclamation of 2015–2024 as the Decade for People of African Descent under the pillars of recognition, justice, and development. Following its success, a second decade — 2025 to 2034 — has now been declared. She emphasized that this renewed global commitment is a “call to action to secure human rights and freedoms for people of African descent worldwide,” making the maiden Africa Tourism Dialogue perfectly aligned with this mandate.
Afeku defined Reparative Tourism as a strategic and emotional invitation for Africans in the diaspora — both voluntary migrants and descendants of those forcibly taken during slavery — to return home. This return, she stressed, must be meaningful, structured, and anchored in deliberate government policies that ensure a dignified reconnection.
She outlined critical issues that African governments must urgently address to enable a smooth homecoming:
- Visa Protocols and Residency Permits: Processes must be simplified and non-cumbersome.
- Accessible Citizenship Pathways: The journey to citizenship should be affordable, clear, and streamlined for diasporans.
- A Supportive Economic Ecosystem: The continent must create enabling environments that attract diaspora investments, particularly in tourism and the creative industries.
Afeku applauded AITEC World’s commitment to developing a centralized continental database — a “one-stop shop” for reliable data — which she believes is essential for guiding investments, settlement options, and opportunities for returning diaspora communities.
Drawing inspiration from history, she recalled that the very halls of UNECA once echoed with the voices of Kwame Nkrumah and other African visionaries who championed unity and self-determination. “We cannot wait another sixty years,” she urged. “This generation has the tools, power, and will to transcend borders, defy barriers through technology, and triumph through collaboration.”
Afeku called on Africans to embrace intra-African travel as part of Reparative Tourism — a pathway to healing, restoration, connection, and economic revival. She noted that the continent must ensure a “soft landing” for those returning, backed by efficient systems and supportive policies.
Her speech ended on a deeply inspirational note, invoking the legacies of great African leaders and icons such as King Mansa Musa, Emperor Haile Selassie, Rosa Parks, and Kwame Nkrumah. Their enduring strength and wisdom, she said, remind us that Africa has never been poor and that its people must reclaim their collective power.
“With the efforts of AITEC World and Africa Celebrates,” Afeku concluded, “we shall reclaim our identity, restore our pride, and let the world know — this is Africa’s time. Africa must unite.”
