The PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy held its inaugural symposium aimed at fostering robust collaboration between both historically interconnected regions at The University of the West Indies (The UWI) Regional Headquarters on Wednesday, March 20, 2024.

The symposium, which marked a seminal moment in the annals of international cooperation and was attended by a distinguished cohort comprising current and former heads of State from both the Caribbean and Africa, alongside eminent academic luminaries.

It was held under the theme ‘Strengthening Cooperation Between African and Caribbean States: Facing The Challenges, Creating Solutions’

“This inaugural symposium seeks to face the challenges and find creative solutions as we move forward to strengthen cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean,” said Patterson, the institute’s statesman in residence and former Jamaica prime minister .

Adding her insights to the discourse, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley said, “The pursuit of reparative justice demands we stand together as partners and allies, amplifying our voice and advancing our common interests on the global stage.”

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former president of Nigeria, extolling the historical bonds between the two regions, said, “The ties between the Caribbean and Africa run deep, forged by a shared history, culture, oppression, and identity.”

He went on to express concern that both regions have not invested enough in critical areas to improve development and improve the lives of the citizens significantly.

Pro vice-chancellor of The UWI Sir Hilary Beckles articulated the pivotal role of the institute as it collaborates with the university in advancing collective interests, emphasising the commitment to nurturing a synergistic partnership at this crucial time for global Africa.

“This 21st century will be the century of reparatory justice, African diaspora solidarity, and institution building. This is now the moment,” he said.

Among the topics examined during the symposium were skill and digital transformation, advancing Africa-Caribbean cooperation, climate mitigation, policy perspectives, and the impact of artificial intelligence.