Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud Youssouf, has paid tribute to victims of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade.

Mr Youssouf made this known in a statement by his spokesperson, Nuur Sheekh. 

He said that the tribute was in commemoration of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, often celebrated on March 25 annually.

“On this solemn occasion, the AUC pays tribute to the millions of African men, women and children who were forcibly uprooted and subjected to inhumane suffering.

“We also pay tribute to those deprived of their dignity and fundamental rights in what remains one of the darkest chapters in human history,” Mr Youssouf said.

He said that the transatlantic slave trade was not only a profound human tragedy but also a structural injustice whose enduring consequences had continued to affect societies across Africa and those in the diaspora.

“In such regard, preserving the memory of such atrocities becomes essential for renewed collective commitment to justice, dignity and equality.

“The AUC calls for strengthened global efforts to confront the legacy of slavery and to tackle its lasting socio-economic and cultural impacts,” he said.

The chairperson also affirmed the importance of education, remembrance and dialogue as critical tools to combating racism, discrimination and all forms of intolerance.

He reiterated the AU’s commitment to advancing the global agenda of reparative justice, in line with the continent’s priorities and the aspirations of Africans and the diaspora.

“As the African Union continues to promote unity, solidarity and shared prosperity, this day stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience of African people.

“It also stands as an enduring imperative to upholding human dignity and justice for all,” Mr Youssouf said.

(NAN)