Somalia has joined African nations in a high-level international conference held in Algiers from November 30 to December 1, focusing on accountability for colonial-era injustices and advancing efforts to secure global recognition for the historical crimes committed across the continent.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Balcad, represented Somalia at the two-day gathering, which brought together countries that experienced colonial rule. The meeting aimed to strengthen a unified African position on acknowledging past violations, promoting transitional justice, and exploring mechanisms for effective reparations.
The conference centered on documenting the long-standing impact of colonialism,ranging from human rights violations to economic exploitation, and developing a continental framework that supports affected nations in pursuing justice and compensation.
A key outcome of the summit is the drafting of the Algiers Declaration,”a comprehensive document capturing the major recommendations, policy proposals, and commitments agreed upon by participating countries. Delegates are expected to finalize the declaration at the close of the conference.
Once completed, the declaration will be submitted to the African Union (AU) Heads of State Summit in February 2026, where member states will review and consider it for adoption as an official AU document recognizing colonial crimes and their enduring effects on Africa.
On the sidelines of the conference, Minister Ali Balcad held a bilateral meeting with Salma Mansouri, Secretary for African Affairs at Algeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two officials discussed strengthening diplomatic cooperation and advancing shared interests between Somalia and Algeria.
Organizers and participants described the conference as a timely opportunity for African countries to collectively address historical injustices, promote reconciliation, and advocate for international acknowledgment of the long-term harm caused by colonialism.
The Algiers meeting underscores a broader continental effort to pursue historical justice, ensure that the legacies of colonial exploitation are neither overlooked nor forgotten, and build a more equitable and informed future for African societies.