Prime Minister Gaston Browne delivered a powerful ‘call to action’ address at the 2nd Africa-Caribbean Summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from September 6 to 8.
In his usual frank and no-nonsense manner, PM Browne urged attendees to ‘seize’ the opportunities before them to forge greater and meaningful ties between Africa and the Caribbean as the time for ‘fancy’ speeches was over.
“We face a challenge greater than resources or skills; it is the challenge of political will. Too often, we have allowed hesitation to paralyze action. Too often, eloquence in speeches has not been matched by courage in deeds. Let this Summit be remembered as the moment we turned the tide when Africa and the Caribbean chose unity over fragmentation, action over inertia, and courage over complacency,” he urged.
On this critical issue of Africa-Caribbean partnerships, the prime minister noted that if reparations form the moral foundation, then the Africa–Caribbean partnership must be the practical vehicle as he called for action in three critical areas.
Firstly, he noted that the combined market of Africa and the Caribbean is 1.5 billion people, yet trade between the two regions is negligible. “This cannot continue,” he emphasized.
“Africa’s grains, textiles, fruits, and energy should flow into the Caribbean; while the Caribbean’s rum, sugar, spices, tourism, and creative products should find eager markets in Africa. Let us negotiate a preferential trade agreement and finally unleash our economic potential.”
Secondly, PM Browne wants to see leaders of Africa and the Caribbean tap into the enormous talents and possibilities that lie in the youth and the need to unearth these skills through education.
“Our greatest wealth lies in our young people. Student exchanges, joint degree programs, and shared research networks can prepare us for the challenges of the future, from climate change to public health to technological innovation. An Africa–Caribbean Academic Network would allow our brightest minds to collaborate, innovate, and solve common problems together,” he suggested.
Thirdly, the Antigua and Barbuda leader returned to a topic that is close to his heart; the vital necessity of having air and sea bridges between the Caribbean and Africa.
“Today, Africa has the strategic assets: Air Peace, Ghana Air and Ethiopian Airlines. The Caribbean has the will. Let us not delay further. Even one weekly flight can begin the process. If it requires subsidies from a coalition of our states, let us boldly make that investment,” he again emphasised.
PM Browne added that the cost of inaction is far higher than the price of a subsidized route. “That single flight will carry not only passengers but the promise of expanded trade, cultural exchange, tourism, and investment,” he stated.
My pm is right, the time for action is now more than ever. Unity is strenght