The Honourable Philip Davis, Prime Minister of the Bahamas, delivered a stirring speech at the Afreximbank’s annual meetings in Nassau, Bahamas, articulating a vision for “Global Africa” that transcends geographical boundaries to unite African and Caribbean nations in economic prosperity and self-determination.
Mr Davis acknowledged the global economic landscape’s shift towards protectionism and nationalism, emphasizing how these trends undermine multilateralism and global cooperation essential for addressing global issues like climate change and poverty. He criticised the biases within global financial systems, advocating for a fairer approach that benefits all nations, particularly those that have been historically marginalized.
Central to Mr Davis’s speech was the concept of Global Africa, a movement that celebrates the shared heritage and potential of African and Caribbean nations. This vision, underscored by initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement and regional economic summits, aims to empower over 2 billion people of African descent worldwide to define their economic destiny on their own terms. Mr Davis highlighted Afreximbank’s pivotal role in fostering connections and initiatives that strengthen economic ties between geographic Africa and its diaspora.
Mr Davis outlined a blueprint for financial integration between Africa and the Caribbean, emphasizing collaboration in banking systems, digital finance, and regulatory frameworks. He highlighted the Bahamas’ leadership in pioneering initiatives like the Sand Dollar, the world’s first central bank digital currency, as a model for enhancing financial inclusivity and resilience across the regions.
Drawing parallels with historical milestones like the Pirate Republic of Nassau, Mr Davis celebrated the resilience, innovation and inclusive spirit inherent in Caribbean and African histories. He called for a re-evaluation of narratives and systems that perpetuate inequality, advocating instead for inclusive economic policies that empower all nations to participate equitably in the global economy.
In closing, Prime Minister Davis urged African and Caribbean nations to unite in transforming the global financial architecture. He called for proactive engagement to shape economic policies that reflect shared values of justice, equity and mutual prosperity. Mr Davis emphasized that this moment represents an historic opportunity to redefine global economic governance and ensure that African and Caribbean voices are not just included but lead in shaping a fairer and more inclusive international financial system.
Prime Minister Philip Davis’s speech at Afreximbank’s annual meetings encapsulated a bold vision for Global Africa, emphasizing unity, innovation and economic empowerment. His call to bridge historical divides and forge ahead together resonated as a clarion call for collective action towards a future where Africa and the Caribbean drive prosperity and partnership on their own terms.