The 9th Pan-African Congress is set to unfold in the vibrant city of Lomé, Togo, from October 29 to November 2, 2024. It will be a moment to celebrate, reflect, and envision a future where Africa and its diaspora stand united in purpose and strength. In a world where the echoes of history mingle with the aspirations of the future, the Pan-African spirit shines brightly as a beacon of unity, resilience, and progress. The theme of this year’s Congress, “Renewal of Pan-Africanism and Africa’s Role in the Reform of Multilateral Institutions: Mobilizing Resources and Reinventing Itself to Act,” encapsulates the essence of the challenges and opportunities facing the continent in the 21st century. From the legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois to the Agenda 2063 of the African Union, the Congress draws on a rich tapestry of history and vision to chart a course toward a more empowered, united, and prosperous Africa…Read more on talkafrica.co.ke
Declaration of the Bamako Regional Conference
Declaration of the West Africa Regional Conference as prelude to the 9th Pan-African Congress. English version French version English version Download File View Fullscreen × French version Download File View Fullscreen ×
Western African regional conference of the 9th Pan-African Congress of Lomé 2024
The second regional conference, a prelude to the 9th Pan-African Congress, was held in the Malian capital Bamako on 14 and 15 March 2024 under the theme: Diasporas, Afro-descendants and development. The Bamako conference, which brought together leading figures from the African continent, the diaspora and Afro-descendants, is one of 6 regional conferences to be organised before the 9th Pan-African Congress, to be held in Lomé from 29 October to 02 November 2024. “The choice of the Malian capital for this meeting is an expression of the fraternity, commitment and solidarity of the West African states alongside Mali in the fight against terrorism”, explained the Togolese head of diplomacy at the opening of the discussions. As a reminder, the 1st regional conference (Southern Africa zone conference) was organised on 04 and 05 December 2023 in South Africa. Click here for more content about the Bamako Conference.
[Press briefing] 9th Pan-African Congress: Africa to mobilise resources and reinvent itself to take action
A press briefing on preparations for the 9th Pan-African Congress in Lomé was held on March 11, 2024 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Togolese Abroad. The press briefing was led by Mrs. Afognon Kouakou SEDAMINOU, Diaspora desk coordinator and Essohanam PETCHEZI, director of African integration, both senior officials of the ministry. In his speech, Mr. SEDAMINOU informed both the national and international press that the 9th Pan-African Congress will be held from October 29 to November 02, 2024 in Lomé on the theme “Renewal of Pan-Africanism and Africa’s role in the reform of multilateral institutions: mobilizing resources and reinventing itself to act”. He recounted the background of the congress, its specificities, objectives and expected results, the preparatory stage up to March 11, 2024, and future activities. This were followed by questions-and-answers session, which gave the journalists who were present the opportunity to ask questions. Background of the 9th Pan-African Congress of Lomé 2024 Regarding the background, it appeared that the 9th Pan-African Congress is the result of a Togolese initiative endorsed by the African Union Commission. Indeed, in accordance with the vision and orientations of the President of the Republic H.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, the minister of foreign affairs, regional integration and Togolese abroad, Prof. Robert DUSSEY, proposed to the 33rd session of the African Union Heads of State and Government in February 2020 that a decade be dedicated to African roots and the African diaspora. In view of the positive reactions to this plea, the Heads of State and Government Conference recommended that reflections on this subject of continental interest should continue, and that Togo should prepare the appropriate documents for submission to the next ordinary session for decision. Togo then submitted a note on the Decade, which fitted in well with the African Union’s theme for 2021: “Arts, culture and heritage: levers for building an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa in the context of multi-sectorial challenges”. The Togolese proposal was endorsed by the African Heads of State and Government. Indeed, at the 34th Summit of Heads of State and Government on February 6 and 7, 2021, the African Union, by decision Assembly/AU/Dec.807(XXXIV), decreed the Decade 2021-2031 “Decade of African Roots and the African Diaspora”. The Assembly also decided to set up a High Committee chaired by the Republic of Togo, responsible for implementing the Agenda of the Decade of African Roots and the African Diaspora. On the occasion of the 36th Summit of the African Union on February 18 and 19, 2023, Togo presented, under the Decade 2021-2031, a progress report on the activities and prospects for the establishment of the High Committee in charge of the Agenda of the “Decade 2021-2031 of African Roots and the African Diaspora” in accordance with Decision Assembly/AU/Dec. 807(XXXIV) of the AU Summit of February 7, 2021. In Decision Assembly/AU/Dec.848 (XXXVI) adopted at the 36th Summit held on February 18 and 19, 2023 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the Heads of State and Government approved the mandate and missions of the High Committee in charge of the Agenda of the Decade of African Roots and Diaspora. The High Committee, composed of fifteen (15) member states, considered the geographical configuration of the AU (all five (05) regions are represented) as well as the linguistic criterion (English-speaking, Arabic-speaking, French-speaking and Portuguese-speaking). In the same decision, the Heads of State and Government also approved the project for Togo to organize, in collaboration with the African Union Commission, the 9th Pan-African Congress in Lomé on the theme “Renewal of Pan-Africanism and Africa’s role in the reform of multilateral institutions: mobilizing resources and reinventing itself to act”. The 9th Pan-African Congress is part of the activities of the “Decade 2021-2031”, which remains an institutional and Pan-African tool for valorizing and mobilizing the contributions and talents of Diasporas and Afrodescendants in the service of development and a reinvented Pan-Africanism. It is therefore a flagship activity in the implementation of the decade of African roots and the African diaspora. Specificities of the 9th Pan-African Congress The 9th Pan-African Congress has several specific aspects: Firstly, it is part of both a historical filiation and a forward-looking vision. In fact, the first Pan-African Conference was held in London in 1900. After this historic event, the first Pan-African Congress was held in 1919, followed by seven (07) other editions attended by participants from the diaspora and Africa. The Pan-African Congress of Lomé is part of this historical continuity, while addressing current issues concerning the future and place of the continent in international institutions. Furthermore, it is co-organized by Togo and the African Union. Indeed, it falls within the continental institutional framework based on Decision Assembly/AU/Dec.848 (XXXVI) adopted at the 36th AU Summit on February 18 and 19, 2023, approving the holding of the said Congress, and on the African Union’s Agenda 2063. It is marked by preparatory stages consisting of six (6) regional conferences or pre-congresses scheduled in six (6) regions of Africa, including the Diaspora region, up to the climax in Lomé in 2024, as decided by the High Committee. These regions are North Africa, Southern Africa, East Africa, West Africa, Central Africa, and the Diaspora region. It is also based on a “Pan-Africanism of the people”, involving more strongly the Diaspora and Afrodescendants, who play a vital role in the emancipation of the continent, supporting development programs in Africa through multiple initiatives. Finally, the 9th Pan-African Congress is the very first to be organized by a French-speaking African country, following those held respectively in Dar-es-Salam in Tanzania, Kampala in Uganda and Johannesburg in South Africa. Objectives of the 9th Pan-African Congress in Lomé Firstly, to make it a privileged space for Africans, the African Diaspora and Afrodescendants, who will have the opportunity to question their human, political, cultural, social and societal future, in an increasingly unstable world, lacking in collective responsibility and concerted governance involving Africa. Secondly, to enable African countries to define what they want and can do for themselves and by themselves, alongside
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: PARTICIPATION OF YOUTH FROM AFRICA, AFRICAN DIASPORAS, AND COMMUNITIES OF AFRICAN DESCENT IN THE 9TH PAN-AFRICAN CONGRESS OF LOME 2024
[CLOSURE OF APPLICATIONS] In a reshaping, marked by geopolitical repositioning against the backdrop of a shaky international order, the “Africa of the 6” is seeking its path. The current renewal of Pan-Africanism, in this crucial period, promises to inject new momentum into its emancipation. In order to support this dynamic, while ensuring a historical continuity to Pan-Africanism to reignite the flame of the movement, Togo, in collaboration with the African Union, is organizing the 9th Pan-African Congress in Lomé from October 29 to November 2, 2024. Focused on the theme “Renewal of Pan-Africanism and the Role of Africa in the Reform of Multilateral Institutions: Mobilizing Resources and Reinventing Oneself to Act”, this Congress calls on the youth of Africa, African diasporas, and those of African descent to take a leading role in the transformation dynamic. Indeed, as the predominant age group and the first abundant resource, young people represent a transformative force. As the driving force behind and major actors of change, and inevitable decision-makers of tomorrow, they play a central role in the renewal of Pan-Africanism. The renewal of Pan-Africanism, at the core of the 9th Congress, requires a fresh and renewed vision to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Young people, with their dynamism, innovation capacity, and forward-looking perspectives, are key players in creating and expressing this vision. Their ability to envision a future in which Africa proudly and actively occupies its place on the world stage makes them a driving force in the renewal process. As key players in the revitalisation of Pan-Africanism, young people in Africa, the African diasporas, and those of African descent will enable the continent to develop its own narratives and confidently march towards a promising and more inclusive future. To ensure meaningful and high-quality participation of youth in the 9th Pan-African Congress, a writing competition is launched on the sub-theme “Youth of Africa, Diasporas, and the Renewal of Pan-Africanism: Tackling Challenges Together to Build a Common Future.” This competition aims to select the top twenty young participants who will be offered the opportunity to present their ideas and perspectives on Pan-Africanism, the new challenges to address, and the best ways to explore for a better future. The objective of the competition is therefore to encourage young people to reflect on the challenges they face, both in Africa and the Diasporas, and to propose innovative solutions for building a common future based on the principles of Pan-Africanism. It provides an opportunity for young people to share their perspectives with Pan-African leaders, activists, and committed thinkers. Main themes of Contributions: The various proposals may fall under one of the following headings, without being limited to them, with the aim of stimulating reflection that can lead to new ideas and action-oriented proposals rooted in the present and oriented towards the future: Science, technology and innovation: In an era dominated by technological progresses and rapid change, young people are at the forefront of innovation. Their expertise in technology usage and in adopting innovative approaches positions them as the architects of a new Pan-Africanism. From digital diplomacy to grassroots initiatives, young people harness the power of innovation to solve contemporary problems and contribute to the development of a resilient, future-oriented Africa. Youth representation in international forums and Africa’s voice on the world stage: At the heart of the renewal of Pan-Africanism is the struggle for increased representation on the world stage. Increasingly, youth advocate for a seat at the table, recognizing that their perspectives, experiences, and aspirations must be integrated into decision-making processes that shape the continent’s destiny and the world’s future. By actively participating in diplomatic forums, international conferences, and global initiatives, youth amplify Africa’s voice and influence. The experience of the Lome Peace and Security Forum (LPSF) has taught us a great deal in this regard. Arts, Cultures, and African Renaissance: As custodians of diverse African cultures, young people play a pivotal role in revitalizing African cultures. Through art, music, literature, and various forms of expression, they celebrate the richness of African heritage, fostering a sense of pride and unity. This cultural revitalization becomes a powerful tool for shaping a positive and authentic narrative that transcends borders and serves the cause of Pan-Africanism. Youth, Commitment, and Pan-Africanism: Pan-Africanism emerged in its early days as a militant movement, a commitment against the oppression of the sons and peoples of Africa and people of African descent, striving for dignity, emancipation, and freedom. This activist dimension remains essential in the current context where Africa is working to take its rightful place for itself on the international stage, and the commitment of young Africans, African diasporas, and communities of African descent is a necessity. The mobilisation and militant commitment of young people around the cause of Pan-Africanism will certainly add value to Africa’s efforts to better position itself in the world. Building Liberating Bonds, Creating Alliances, and Addressing Common Challenges: Collaboration is vital to the renewal of Pan-Africanism, and young people excel at building intercultural and transcultural alliances. Through international networks, partnerships, and exchanges, they bridge gaps, promoting understanding and cooperation on a global scale. This interconnectedness, especially among youth from Africa, African diasporas, and communities of African descent, becomes a driving force to position Africa as a dynamic and proactive player in the global community. Africanity, Pan-Africanism, and the Coexistence of Peoples: Africanity is the most fundamental link between the peoples of Africa, communities, and individual people of African descent. It reminds them of their cultural references, their common roots and values, as well as their shared destiny. At the heart of Pan-Africanism, there is a deep sense of Africanity. It is not a closed Africanity, but one that is open to otherness and a receptacle of essential human ethical values necessary for peaceful coexistence among the peoples of the world. The renewal of Pan-Africanism itself is underpinned by the awareness of a community facing challenges together in a historical context in which Africa continues to experience a fate that is clearly out of
Southern African Regional Conference of the 9th Pan-African Congress of Lomé 2024
Togo is preparing to host the 9th Pan-African Congress next year. After the official launch last May in Lomé, preparations have now begun. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey, has been in Pretoria (South Africa) since 04 December 2023, where the Regional Preparatory Conference for Southern Africa is taking place. The event, which is one of six of its kind planned in the various regions, is being held under the theme of “Pan-Africanism, science, knowledge and technology”. The aim is to build institutional bridges between the countries of the southern region and their diasporas in the run-up to the Lomé meeting, to work on concrete proposals to be submitted at the Congress, and to facilitate South-South cooperation in the various areas covered by the theme. The work that ended on Tuesday 05 December will be followed by five other regional conferences. The Lomé Congress will be the fourth on the continent, following those held in Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Kampala (Uganda) and Johannesburg (South Africa). The first five Pan-African Congresses were held outside Africa (mainly in Europe, with the exception of the 4th in New York).
Declaration of the Pretoria regional conference
[Press release] Launch of the 9th Pan-African Congress Lome-2024
1 – Togo and the African Union, as part of the 2021-2031 Agenda of the “Decade of African Roots and the African Diaspora”, proceeded, on Monday, May 22, 2023 in Lomé, to the official launch of the 9th Pan-African Congress scheduled for 2024 on the theme “Renewal of Pan-Africanism and Africa’s Role in the Reform of Multilateral Institutions: mobilizing resources and reinventing Itself to act”. 2 – The launching ceremony presided, on behalf of H.E. Mr. Faure Essozimna GNASSINGBE, President of the Republic, by H.E. Mrs. Victoire TOMEGAH-DOGBE, Prime Minister and Head of Government, was marked by the presence of members of the Togolese Government, Presidents of the institutions of the Republic, as well as other personalities from the African Union, of the continent, African diasporas and communities of Afro-descendants. 3 – The launching ceremony was marked by several speeches and H.E. Mrs. Victoire TOMEGAH-DOGBE, in her speech, thanked the African Union and its Member States for the choice of Togo to host the 9th Pan-African Congress which will be the privileged opportunity for the Africans living on the continent and outside Africa (the diaspora and Afro-descendants) to question the question of their future in an increasingly unstable world, marked by multiple crises and in full reconfiguration. 4 – According to the Prime Minister, the current context is that of the renewal of Pan-Africanism and the9th Congress will not only respond to the need to ensure historical continuity to the Pan-African movement, but also reaffirm its unavoidable importance in the efforts and collective impetus of the peoples of Africa and the African diasporas for a better representation of the continent in the multilateral institutions for international cooperation and for its equitable participation in global governance. 5 – Speaking on behalf of the African Union Commission, H.E. Dr Monique NSANZABAGANWA, Vice-Chairperson of the Commission of the Continental Institution, praised the leadership of H.E. Faure Essozimna GNASSINGBE and Togolese diplomacy on the issue of African diasporas and recalled the importance that the AU accords Pan-Africanism, the African diaspora and Afro-descendants in its Agenda 2063. According to her, the project of organizing the9th Pan-African Congress meets current challenges and the African Renaissance is only possible within the framework of a renewed Pan-Africanism adapted to our time. 6 – In their speeches, H.E. Mrs Naledi PANDOR, Minister for International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa, and H.E. Mr Jean-Claude GAKOSSO, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Franceand Congolese Abroad, welcomed Togo’s pan-African commitment respectively. H.E. Mrs. Naledi PANDOR highlighted the contemporary importance of Pan-Africanism and the determination of her country to work alongside Togo and the AU for the success of the 9th Pan-African Congress. As for H.E. Mr. Jean-Claude GAKOSSO, he stressed the relevance of this edition of the Congress which will federate energies around the issues of continental development and representativeness of Africa in global governance. 7 – In his speech on the occasion, H.E. Prof. Robert DUSSEY, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Togolese Abroad, outlined the next steps in the preparations for the Lomé Congress, which will accelerate through a series of activities, including the installation of members of the International Committee of the Congress, the mobilization and international communication campaign, the installation of subcommittees in charge of thematic work and the tour of the renewal of Pan-Africanism in several countries of the continent and in diasporas. 8 – The launch ceremony follows Decision Assembly/AU/Dec.22(XXXVI) of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU meeting at its 36th Ordinary Session on 18 and 19 February 2023 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, through which it requested Togo to organize, in collaboration with the AU Commission, the 9th edition of the Pan-African Congress. 9 – The Lomé Congress in 2024 will be the 4th Pan-African Congress held on the continent after the 6th Congress in Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, the 7th in Kampala in Uganda and the 8th in Johannesburg in South Africa. The first five Pan-African Congresses were held outside Africa including the 1st in Paris in 1919, the 2nd in London, Brussels and Paris, the 3rd in London and Lisbon, the 4th in New York and the 5th in Manchester.
