Africa is moving towards real political and economic independence, and this will be highlighted as Ghana gets ready to host the 80th anniversary of the historic Fifth Pan-African Congress.
Originally held in Manchester, UK, in 1945, the Congress will take place in Accra from October 20 to 21, 2025. It will gather political parties, farmers, women’s groups, youth and student organizations, trade unions, and many other grassroots organizations from 50 countries in Africa and the Caribbean.
The theme is: “From Historical Memory to Economic and Political Justice – Uniting Pan-African Progressive Forces,” where the conference will discuss the ongoing national liberation struggle in Accra and beyond; the strengthening of national independence; creating a framework for continental unity based on anti-imperialism; reparative justice; and developing a new model of economic and social growth to liberate Africans from neocolonialism.
At a press briefing in Accra, Pan-Africanist Kwesi Pratt Jr emphasized that this commemoration is not merely a reflection of the past.
He stated: “It is a positive gathering of Africans to assert their rights in a world that works against their dreams of freedom from all forms of poverty caused by the heavy burden of exploitation of their resources. Africa cannot remain a spectator in the global arena.”
He also noted that the gathering will highlight Africa’s role in the rapidly changing global environment, characterized by digital changes, currency shifts, and evolving geopolitical relationships.
Notable Pan-Africanists expected to attend include Comrade Ivan Djinn, General Secretary of the Metal Workers’ Union of South Africa; Professor Ekwia Brichou from the University of Cape Coast and Chairperson of Ghana’s National Media Commission; and Dr. Gamal Nasser Adam, former Vice-President of the Islamic University.
The conference will also include John Dramani Mahama, the President of Ghana, who will give the keynote address. Additionally, there is hope for the participation of Burkina Faso’s President, Ibrahim Traoré, representing the Alliance of Sahel States.