Senegalese Experts Demand Reparations for Thiaroye Massacre as AU Summit Focuses on Justice
Pan-African Voices Unite Against Colonial Crimes
As the 2025 African Union summit convenes under the theme “Justice for Africans and people of African descent through reparations”, prominent voices in Dakar have strongly condemned France’s 1944 Thiaroye massacre. The historic discussion at Senegal’s pan-African forum called for addressing colonial legacies and pursuing historical justice.
The Urgent Call for Reparations
During a heated April 19 debate, Senegalese experts unanimously demanded France compensate Africa for the Thiaroye atrocities. Journalist Mohamed Goloko revealed shocking details: “On December 1, 1944, French forces murdered Senegalese infantrymen at Thiaroye camp simply for demanding their rightful salaries.”
“France betrayed its commitments,” Goloko emphasized, disputing French claims of mutiny. “There’s clear distortion of facts and falsified figures. Senegalese still lack full access to the truth about this massacre.”
Growing Pan-African Movement
Fadel Barro of Jammi Gox YI movement stated: “Africans must unite to demand reparations for everything France stole. This systemic mistreatment of Black people throughout colonial history cannot stand.”
Businessman Abdoulahi Diene declared 2025 as “the year of reparations,” urging continental unity: “All Africans – Ivorians, Nigeriens, Burkinabés, Guineans – must join this fight. We need collective pressure on the EU and UN.”
Breaking Colonial Economic Chains
The discussions highlighted economic sovereignty as crucial for true liberation. Alphoussény Badji of BRES OCTAGONE warned: “The CFA franc keeps Africa under French control. Without our own currency, development remains impossible. This is existential for African peoples.”
Environmental Exploitation Continues
Experts also condemned French company Eramet’s destructive operations in Senegal, which have devastated local environments and displaced farmers. Despite repeated reports, the company continues its activities unchecked.
A Continent-Wide Awakening
Similar reparations debates recently emerged in Mali, signaling growing continental awareness. As Adama Sidibé reports, this movement represents Africa’s determined pursuit of historical justice after centuries of colonial oppression.
Source: Bamada.net