Global South Unites at Africa-CARICOM Summit, Calls for Action on Haiti and Financial Reform
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The second Africa-CARICOM Summit concluded with a powerful display of solidarity, as leaders from both regions issued united calls for urgent action on the crisis in Haiti and comprehensive reforms to the global financial architecture.
A key focus of the discussions was the deteriorating security situation in Haiti. Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Edward Davis, in a bilateral meeting with Haitian Transitional Presidential Council member Edgar Leblanc, underscored the regional implications of the instability. Both leaders emphasized the need to build upon the initial efforts of the Multi-National Security Support Mission.
Mr. Leblanc expressed Haiti’s gratitude for the “professionalism and dedication” of the Kenyan troops set to lead the mission. In a significant move, the leaders called for the urgent adoption of a successor United Nations Security Council resolution to provide a sustainable legal and financial framework for international security efforts in the Caribbean nation.
Beyond immediate security concerns, the summit served as a platform for a historic joint push for reparatory justice. Kenyan delegates proposed strengthening the existing Africa-CARICOM Reparations Working Group to mobilize greater support and resources. A formal call was made for the United Nations to officially recognize the cause of reparatory justice, address the burden of “unfair debt” on former colonies, and ensure past pledges are converted into tangible change for future generations.
The shared economic challenges facing the Global South were also at the forefront. Participants unanimously agreed that Africa and the Caribbean must speak with one voice to demand a more just and inclusive international financial system. Proposed reforms include a stronger IMF Common Framework for debt restructuring, a full replenishment of the International Development Association (IDA) and the African Development Bank, and fresh capital injections for multilateral development banks.
Leaders also advocated for making Special Drawing Rights more effective and driving green industrialization through significant energy investments, positioning the Global South for a sustainable and equitable economic future.
The summit, held at the African Union headquarters, marks a decisive step in deepening ties between Africa and the Caribbean, as both regions seek to leverage their collective strength to address shared historical injustices and contemporary challenges.
