#Senegal #Dakar #Colonial Justice #Senegal Activists #Reparations Demands

France's Colonial Legacy Under Scrutiny at Dakar Roundtable

On July 29, 2025, a significant roundtable was held at African Memorial Square in Dakar, Senegal, where journalists, historians, and pan-African activists came together to discuss France's colonial legacy and advocate for reparations. This gathering not only highlighted historical injustices but also brought to the forefront the urgent calls for economic justice and the need for France to acknowledge its role in Senegal's past.

The event saw active participation from numerous advocacy groups, including the Association of Descendants of Senegalese Soldiers, the Front for the Withdrawal of French Military Bases (GASSI), and JIF'AFRIK. Together, these organizations pushed the dialogue towards actionable outcomes that aim to repair the damages caused by colonialism. Among the prominent figures was Babacar Dioh from the Thiaroye 44 Movement, a coalition representing the descendants of Senegalese tirailleurs, who have long been advocating for recognition and compensation.

During the discussions, Dioh and other speakers articulated two primary demands: official reparations for colonial-era injustices and the renegotiation of trade and military agreements that activists assert continue to create economic dependency on France. “The time for symbolic gestures is over,” Dioh declared emphatically. He continued, “We are now filing an official reparations claim and taking concrete steps to hold France accountable.” This resolute stance marks a pivotal shift towards a more direct approach in addressing long-standing grievances against France.

The roundtable further emphasized the dismantling of neocolonial structures that have perpetuated economic hardship and social inequalities since the end of colonial rule. Activists articulated that the ecological, financial, and social ramifications of colonialism continue to affect the lives of many in Senegal and West Africa. The sense of urgency resonated across the forum, making it clear that this was not merely an academic discussion, but a call to action for reparative justice.

The timely event in Dakar stands as a testament to the city’s emerging status as a hub for coordinated advocacy efforts championed by African voices. This gathering not only underscored the necessity for reparations but also reinforced a broader continental movement seeking accountability from former colonial powers. By pushing for equity and autonomy, activists are demanding that historical truths be acknowledged and rectified.

The discussions in Dakar mirrored growing sentiments across Africa and beyond, where former colonies are demanding justice for past wrongs, aiming to reclaim their narratives and ensure that future generations inherit a more equitable reality. As the conversation around reparations gains traction, the winds of change seem to be blowing through the African continent, indicating a potential reconfiguration of relationships between former colonizers and colonized nations.

In conclusion, the Dakar roundtable marked a significant step towards addressing the colonial legacy that France left behind in Senegal. Activists, historians, and community leaders are now more united than ever in their pursuit of reparatory justice. As they mobilize for accountability, they are setting a precedent for future engagements, ensuring that the historical injustices are not merely discussed but rightfully addressed.

Photo Credit: Dakar Roundtable Image