8 minute read
Vision Rooted: A Blueprint For Social Justice, Equity and Inclusion in South Africa
By H.E. Ambassador Lavina Ramkissoon, African Union
If there’s one thing we’ve learned in the post-pandemic, hyper-digital era, it’s this: collaboration is not just a nice-to-have - it’s a must-have. And when it comes to Africa, collaboration isn’t just about sharing resources; it’s about rewriting the narrative of a continent that has been underestimated for far too long.
In 2025, the African Union’s theme of the year, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” couldn’t be more bold and timely. It’s a call to action for Pan-African collaboration, economic growth, and, ultimately, greater social justice, equity, and inclusion. This theme encapsulates a vision not only for reckoning with Africa’s colonial past but also for paving the way towards a brighter, more inclusive future.
While reparations are an essential part of this equation, the road to justice and repair is multifaceted. One crucial pillar in achieving the AU’s goals is economic growth, powered by Pan-African collaboration. In South Africa, this presents a unique opportunity to address some of the country’s most pressing issues: transformation, social justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (JEDI).
Colonial period (1860-1940s): This was a time of exploitation, racism, and exclusion for Africans. There was little to no access to social or economic justice, and systems were designed to keep people (African and Indians) of slavery in subjugation.
Pan-African movements (1940s - 1960s): As African intellectuals and political leaders began to articulate the need for self-determination, the fight for equality and justice began to take root. The establishment of the OAU marked a significant step toward Pan-African unity, though social and economic inequities persisted.
Post-independence struggles (1960s - 1990s): Turning on each other as African nations became a norm. Even after political independence, many African nations struggled with economic inequalities and the enduring effects of colonialism. South Africa’s struggle against apartheid was a focal point for social justice efforts, leading to the eventual dismantling of apartheid in 1994, and a focus on racial reconciliation and inclusivity.
Modern era (2000s - 2025): Africa has increasingly looked to collaboration through regional frameworks like the African Union and economic agreements like AfCFTA. Technology, particularly in the realms of digital commerce and innovation, has played a role in driving inclusivity and economic growth.The year 2025, with its focus on reparations, marks a critical point for justice and equity. African nations are beginning to acknowledge historical wrongs and are committed to redress through Pan-African solidarity.
South Africa, as the continent’s most industrialised nation, has the potential to be a catalyst for change in the quest for equity and inclusion. However, to realise this potential, it must lean into Pan-African collaboration. But how does economic growth, fostered through partnerships across the continent, contribute to these goals? How does technology play a key role in resetting transformation and ensuring a fairer society for all? Let’s dive into this!
The African Union's Vision: Justice, Reparations and Economic Growth
The African Union’s 2025 theme is not just about acknowledging historical wrongs; it’s about repairing and healing from them. Justice and reparations are not just moral obligations - they are economic opportunities. Imagine a world where the wealth extracted from Africa over centuries is reinvested into its people, infrastructure, and innovation. That’s not just justice; that’s transformation. But here’s the kicker: for reparations to truly work, we need more than just financial compensation.
We need collaboration that addresses the root causes of inequality, fosters diversity, and ensures that no one is left behind. And that’s where technology comes in. From AI-powered supply chains to blockchain-enabled reparations frameworks, technology is the glue that can bind Africa’s economies together. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. First, let’s talk about why this matters for South Africa. South Africa has the largest economy on the continent, and its position as an economic hub offers it the unique ability to lead Pan-African economic initiatives.
One of the most exciting opportunities for collaboration is through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Launched in 2021, AfCFTA is designed to create a single continental market for goods and services, with free movement of businesspersons and investments. By 2030, the agreement is expected to boost intra-Africa trade by 52%, which will be pivotal for economic growth.
South Africa's Transformation Journey: Where Are We Now?
South Africa is a country of contrasts. On one hand, we’re a leader in innovation, with tech hubs like Cape Town and Johannesburg driving global trends. On the other hand, we’re still grappling with the legacy of apartheid, where inequality and exclusion remain stubbornly entrenched. Here’s a quick snapshot of where we stand: The good news? South Africa doesn’t have to tackle these challenges alone. By leveraging Pan-African collaboration, we can accelerate transformation and create a more inclusive future.
Indicators, Progress & Challenges
Indicator: Economic Growth
Progress: GDP growth projected at 2.5% in 2025, driven by mining and tech sectors.
Challenge High unemployment (32.9%) and income inequality persist.
Indicator: Social Justice
Land reform and affirmative action policies are making slow progress.
Implementation gaps and political resistance hinder transformation.
Indicator: Diversity & Inclusion
South Africa ranks high in gender diversity in corporate leadership.
Rural areas and informal sectors remain excluded from economic opportunities.
Indicator: Technology Adoption
Digital divide limits access for marginalised communities.
Rapid adoption of AI, fintech, and renewable energy solutions.
How Does This Benefit Social Justice, Equity and Inclusion?
1. Trade and investment: By reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers.
2. Job creation: Collaboration between African nations leads to the opening of more factories, distribution networks, and businesses across borders.
3. Addressing historical disparities: Pan-African collaboration, if done right, can offer opportunities for economic redress.
4. Skills development and education: Collaboration will lead to the exchange of knowledge and expertise across African nations. South African professionals can learn from their counterparts in other parts of the continent, while also offering their own expertise in key areas.
Reparations As A Catalyst For Economic Growth
Reparations are not just about righting historical wrongs; they’re about creating a foundation for future growth. By reinvesting reparations into infrastructure, education, and technology, South Africa can unlock new opportunities for its citizens.
Example: South Africa can collaborate with the African Diaspora to create a Pan-African Reparations Fund, which invests in projects that drive economic inclusion, such as affordable housing and digital infrastructure.
Impact: Increased investment leads to job creation, reduced poverty, and greater economic inclusion.
Technology As A Great Equaliser
Technology has the power to level the playing field, but only if it’s accessible to all. From AI to blockchain, here’s how tech can drive transformation:
AI for agriculture: South Africa can collaborate with example Kenya’s AgriTech startups to deploy AI-powered tools that help smallholder farmers predict weather patterns and optimise crop yields.
Blockchain for reparations: Blockchain can be used to create transparent reparations frameworks, ensuring that funds are distributed fairly and reach those who need them most.
Digital education: Partnering with Rwanda’s EdTech innovators, South Africa can scale digital learning platforms to reach rural and underserved communities.
Social Justice and Equity: Learning From Each Other
Africa is a continent of 55 countries, each with its own unique challenges and solutions. By sharing best practices, we can accelerate progress on social justice and equity.
Example: South Africa can learn from Ghana’s success in using mobile money to drive financial inclusion, particularly for women and rural populations.
Impact: Greater financial inclusion leads to reduced inequality and increased economic participation.
A Touch Of Humour: Transformation Doesn't Have To Be Boring
Let’s be honest: talking about transformation, social justice, and equity can feel very sensitive and heavy. But it doesn’t have to be. After all, if we can’t laugh at the absurdity of trying to explain blockchain to your aunt at a family braai, what’s the point?
Consider this: in 2025, South Africa launches an updated version of their AI-powered chatbot to help citizens. The chatbot, named Thuli (after the iconic Thuli Madonsela), as an example is designed to be patient, empathetic, and unflappable. But within days of its launch, Thuli starts cracking jokes about loadshedding and offering relationship advice. Suddenly, government services don’t seem so intimidating anymore.
The lesson? Transformation doesn’t have to be serious all the time. Sometimes, a little laughter can go a long way in making complex ideas accessible and relatable.
Conclusion: The Future Is Pan-African
The African Union’s theme for 2025 is a reminder that our future is not just national - it’s continental. By embracing Pan-African collaboration, South Africa can accelerate its transformation journey, driving greater social justice, equity, and inclusion. Technology is the enabler, but the real power lies in our ability to work together, share knowledge, and lift each other up. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, embrace the spirit of Ubuntu, and build a future that leaves no one behind.
The African Union’s Sixth Region has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at centralising and digitising the historical injustices, land, and artifacts catalogue, in collaboration with several key AU organs. This project marks a significant step toward preserving Africa’s rich history, addressing past wrongs, and ensuring that the continent’s cultural heritage is safeguarded for future generations. We invite you to join and contribute to this historic movement, as we collectively work toward healing, reconciliation, and a future built on justice and equity for all Africans.
After all, as the saying goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” And in 2025, Africa is going far - together. The path to this future may be long, but as the African Union has so aptly put it, the determination to walk it is what matters most. Let’s walk this journey together.
P.S. If anyone tells you Africa’s best days are ahead, kindly remind them: we’re already living them.
