The Ninth African Congress has opened at the Palace of Conferences in Lomé, Togo’s capital, under the theme: “Renewing African Unity and Africa’s Role in Reforming Multilateral Institutions.” It marks the first gathering of its kind in ten years, following the last congress held in Accra.
The event—prepared over more than two years under the supervision of Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey—brings together representatives from across the continent and the African diaspora, including Angola’s Minister of Culture, Togolese economist Kaku Nubukpo, Senegalese diplomat Doudou Diène, along with academics and influential public figures.
The congress aims to reinvent the concept of African unity, discuss the continent’s role in international institutional reforms, and address the issue of reparations for historical injustices.
Meanwhile, the event has drawn criticism from some opposition figures in Togo, who accuse the Lomé government of exploiting the congress’s message, which resonates strongly with African youth.
The M66 movement, which emerged on social media, has also called for mobilization on opening day to protest against the current government, the new constitution, and to demand the release of political prisoners.
