UNFPA Forum in Ghana Focuses on African Diaspora

A forum focused on advocating for the recognition of the diversity and cultural contributions of people of African descent was held in Accra, Ghana. The event, called The Return Mission, is part of a United Nations initiative to advance the rights of people of African descent globally.

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) convened the forum, which included Natalia Kamen, UN Under-secretary General and UNFPA executive director, Costa Rican Vice President Epsy Campbell Barr, and Ghanaian Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.

Forum Objectives and Statements

Natalia Kamen described the forum as an “unprecedented opportunity to strengthen cooperation for our collective progress and to promote equity, healing, and social justice for our communities across the globe.” Epsy Campbell Barr emphasized the importance of realizing the vision of Marcus Garvey, advocating for a global union of Black people and policies that strengthen ties between Africa and the diaspora. She stated that people of African descent have been victims of systemic historical racism and exclusion, and it is time to fulfill the promise of recognition, justice, and development.

Global Population and UN Declarations

An estimated 200 million people of African descent reside in the Americas, with millions more in other regions worldwide. In December 2013, the UN General Assembly declared 2015–2024 the International Decade for People of African Descent, urging the international community to promote and protect the human rights of this distinct group. The theme of the decade is “People of African descent: recognition, justice, and development.” The UNGA also designated August 31 each year as the International Day for People of African Descent.

African Union and Ghana’s Role

The African Union has recognized the African Diaspora as its sixth region, alongside North, South, East, West, Central, and Diaspora Africa. Ghana has been a leading voice in fostering stronger relationships between Africa and the African diaspora.

The ‘Year of Return’ Initiative

In 2019, President Nana Akufo-Addo launched the ‘Year of Return,’ encouraging members of the African diaspora to return to the continent, particularly Ghana, to settle and invest. This initiative commemorated the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first group of enslaved Africans in America.

Historical Context and Slave Trade Legacy

Ghana’s history is deeply intertwined with the African diaspora due to its significant role in the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. The country’s 550-kilometer coastline features numerous forts and castles that served as slave dungeons, facilitating the procurement, transportation, and sale of Africans to European countries and North America.

Site Visits and Remembrance

Natalia Kamen and Epsy Campbell Barr visited several historic sites related to the slave trade, including the Assin Manso Slave River Site, where enslaved people rested and bathed before being taken to dungeons at Elmina and Cape Coast Castle. The UN delegation also toured the dungeons at these castles.