The Antigua and Barbuda Reparations Support Committee (ABRSC) is calling for stronger cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean, arguing that their shared history and ancestry must be transformed into economic opportunities, cultural renewal and collective advancement.

The committee issued the appeal as Antigua and Barbuda joined the Caribbean Community, the African Union and the wider African Diaspora in observing Africa-CARICOM Day today, September 7.

ABRSC said the annual observance is an important affirmation of the shared ancestry, cultural identity and aspirations of African and Caribbean people. However, it stressed that the vision of closer unity must move beyond declarations and produce measurable action and tangible results.

“Africa-CARICOM unity is inseparable from the pursuit of reparatory justice,” the committee stated.

It called upon governments, regional institutions, civil society organisations and citizens across Africa and the Caribbean to deepen the partnership and strengthen advocacy and action for reparatory justice.

Africa-CARICOM Day emerged from the inaugural Africa-CARICOM Summit held on September 7, 2021. During that meeting, then CARICOM Chairman and Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne proposed that the date be observed annually.

Browne advocated greater cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, transportation, diplomacy and development. He also highlighted the considerable global bargaining power that Africa and CARICOM could exercise by working together.

ABRSC said both regions possess extensive human, cultural and natural resources that could support a more strategic partnership.

It identified agriculture, energy, minerals, the blue economy, tourism, technology, creative industries, education and financial services as key areas for expanded cooperation. The committee also highlighted the potential of the regions’ young and increasingly connected populations.

“The greatest resource shared by Africa and the Caribbean is our people and our collective capacity to determine our own future,” ABRSC said.

The committee urged both regions to convert their historic and ancestral ties into practical cooperation that delivers meaningful benefits for their people.

“Happy Africa-CARICOM Day 2026. One People. Shared History. Common Purpose. A United Future,” its message concluded.