une occasion pour affirmer que la justice n’est pas une revendication conjoncturelle mais un droit collectif
Summary of the Africa Day Celebration in Algeria (Approximately 800 Words)
On Monday, during the World Africa Day event held at the Moufdi-Zakaria Cultural Palace in Algiers, Bakhta Selma Mansouri, the Secretary of State for African Affairs, articulated the importance of the day as an affirmation of history and the pursuit of collective justice. She emphasized that the observance of Africa Day serves as a reminder that history cannot be ignored and that justice is not a temporary demand but a fundamental right for all.
In her speech, Mansouri expressed the significance of Africa Day as a solemn tribute to the struggles against barbaric colonization, slavery, and various forms of exploitation and discrimination faced by African peoples. She honored the sacrifices made by previous generations that paved the way toward unity and independence for the continent.
This year’s celebration carried a powerful and symbolic theme: "Justice for Africans and people of African descent through the issue of reparations." Mansouri highlighted that this slogan reflects Africa’s commitment to restoring its historical narrative and demanding justice that can help in restoring the dignity of all victims of historical injustices spanning centuries.
Mansouri reaffirmed Algeria’s unwavering support for this emancipatory vision, guided by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. She noted that Algeria has historically stood at the forefront of these efforts and remains committed to the cause.
Furthermore, Mansouri underscored the role of President Tebboune as the leader of the Forum of African Heads of State and Government of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), stressing the importance of good governance and social justice as foundational elements for a global African renaissance. She highlighted the promotion of South-South cooperation and tripartite partnerships as essential strategies to establish equitable collaborations.
As a leader in the African Union’s fight against terrorism and violent extremism, Mansouri noted that President Tebboune advocates for an integrated approach that prioritizes human security and links stability, development, and justice as prerequisites for building resilient and prosperous societies.
In addition to the speeches and commemorative elements of Africa Day, African embassies in Algeria organized exhibitions to showcase their rich traditions and cultures. These exhibitions included artworks and photographs depicting historical encounters among various African leaders, particularly illustrating the continent’s struggles and Algeria’s support for liberation movements across Africa.
Images displayed portrayed the suffering endured by African nations, thereby highlighting Algeria’s long-standing solidarity with liberation causes on the continent.
Thus, the Day served as a powerful reminder of the historical context of Africa’s struggles against colonial oppression and a reaffirmation of the ongoing quest for justice, dignity, and recognition of the contributions made by Africans throughout history. It emphasized the necessity for unity and collaborative efforts among African nations to address the challenges currently facing the continent while celebrating its diverse cultural heritage and collective achievements.
In concluding her address, Mansouri encouraged all nations to continue striving for justice and equity, asserting that the fight for reparations is crucial in restoring the historical dignity of African nations and peoples. She called for collaborative relationships not only among African countries but also in engagement with the global community to confront lasting disparities.
Overall, Africa Day in Algeria was not just a celebration but a call to action, urging all stakeholders to be part of the narrative concerning justice and reparations while remembering the indelible impact of historical events on the present. This day stood as a poignant reminder of both past sacrifices and future aspirations, reinforcing the importance of collective memory and recognition in forging a path towards a just and equitable future for Africa and its people.
The event underscored the commitment of Algeria and other African nations to uphold their dignity and push for systemic changes that honor their history and pose a challenge to the ongoing injustices that stem from colonial legacy.
