Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia, today delivered his first address at the 38th Ordinary Session of the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to justice, democracy, and African unity.

In his address to the Assembly as President of Liberia, President Boakai expressed gratitude to the AU and the Ethiopian Government for their warm hospitality.

He congratulated His Excellency João Lourenço, President of Angola, on his election as Chairperson of the African Union, while commending the leadership of the outgoing Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat.

Speaking on the AU’s 2025 theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” President Boakai joined other African leaders to call for the need for reparations to address the enduring legacies of slavery, colonialism, and systemic racism.

“Liberia firmly believes in the importance of reparations as a critical first step toward addressing the lasting legacy and impacts of these historical injustices,” President Boakai stated, pointing out that, “As a nation founded by freed slaves, Liberia is uniquely tied to this struggle and stands as a natural advocate for reparations.” He noted.

He emphasized Liberia’s continued role in advocating for justice, healing, and reconciliation, stressing that reparations would foster unity and trust across Africa and the global African diaspora.

President Boakai also highlighted Liberia’s appreciation for the AU’s support during its 2023 elections, which ensured a peaceful and transparent process, reinforcing Liberia’s democratic stability.

Additionally, he welcomed the African Union’s endorsement of Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (2026-2027) and called for continued support to advancing key African priorities, including peace, security, youth empowerment, and economic development.

Sharing Liberia’s vision for inclusive development, President Boakai outlined his Administration’s ARREST Agenda, a five-year plan focused on Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. He reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to working closely with the AU and fellow African nations to build a prosperous, united, and resilient continent.

“Liberia will remain an active and committed partner in advancing the Union’s agenda for a stronger and more prosperous Africa,” President Boakai assured.