For five days, Lome hosted the 9th Pan-African Congress, bringing together nearly 1,000 participants from more than 40 African and diaspora countries. Scholars, policymakers, and Afro-descendant leaders discussed issues of sovereignty, economic integration, and cultural renaissance. The panels were enriched with key data on population trends, youth demographics, and diaspora financial transfers. The closing ceremony emphasized the importance of an operational Pan-Africanism—one that combines political action with cultural expression. An event that reaffirms the vitality and determination of Africans and Afro-descendants to build a shared future.
The 9ᵗʰ Pan-African Congress wrapped up on 12 December 2025 in Lomé after five days of debates and high-level panels that gathered nearly 1,000 participants from Africa and the diaspora. Discussions highlighted crucial indicators: Africa accounts for 18% of the world’s population but holds only 3% of global decision-making power, while the diaspora sends over 95 billion USD in annual remittances. Organizers emphasized the need to translate recommendations into concrete actions, placing African culture and youth at the center of a renewed Pan-African vision.
“Let us not be overly modest in the face of this success. The successful organization of the 9th Congress is the result of our unity, our courage, and our determination. Yes, we dreamed it together, we built it together, and we achieved it together. More than a decade after the 8th edition, we have finally succeeded in revisiting our bond and our belonging to our beloved Africa—rediscovering our roots and identifying the deep structural obstacles that undermine our progress.
Komi Sélom Klassou , President of the National Assembly – Togo
The discussions were backed by key data. Africa represents 18% of the world’s population but holds only about 3% of the decision-making power within major international institutions. Financial transfers from the African diaspora exceed USD 95 billion per year, surpassing official development assistance. In addition, 60% of Africa’s population is under 25, making the continent the world’s largest youth reserve, while the creative economy is growing at an average rate of 5% annually. These figures fueled debates on sovereignty, economic integration and efforts to address the structural fractures inherited from colonization.
The discussions within the various commissions and panels were frank and uncompromising, approached with the utmost seriousness. They were lively, intense, passionate, and committed, reflecting your determination to mark this 9th Congress with the seal of action and African awakening. Ladies and gentlemen, what you have accomplished here in Lomé goes far beyond the walls of this Conference Palace. It forms the foundation of a continent that is asserting itself, inspiring, and shining. With this Congress, the Africa we dream of is no longer a distant promise. It is on the move, ready to become an essential geopolitical center and a respected cultural force.”
Komi Sélom Klassou , President of the National Assembly – Togo
The closing ceremony was marked by artistic performances and speeches highlighting that Pan-Africanism is expressed as much through culture as through political action. Organizers stressed the importance of turning Congress resolutions into tangible measures by strengthening cooperation among states, Pan-African networks and the diaspora. The event reaffirms the commitment to building a modern, operational Pan-Africanism driven by youth and capable of addressing the economic, social and cultural challenges facing the continent and its global communities.
