Report on Strengthening Cooperation between African & Caribbean States Facing the Challenges, Creating Solutions

Report on The PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy Symposium:

Strengthening Cooperation between African & Caribbean States Facing the Challenges, Creating Solutions

Held Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Location: The UWI Regional Headquarters
Time: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (JA) | 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (EC)

About the PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy

The PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy was launched in 2020. Led by Statesman-In-Residence, The Most Hon. PJ Patterson, former Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Institute is committed to its mandate utilising The University of the West Indies’ special institutional arrangements to focus on the opportunities for Africa, CARICOM, and the African Diaspora to confront common challenges, strengthen historical and cultural ties and build economic bridges. The Institute’s objectives include:

• Assist in developing the framework for the coordination of public advocacy and development partnering between the Caribbean and Africa
• Develop a programme of work to engage with the full range of UWI academics and pertinent research from scholars in the Diaspora for the production of a strategic framework for African-Caribbean Cooperation and action
• Promote, encourage, and facilitate a fertile exchange of cultural groups, artists, scholars, entertainers, athletes, and sportspersons to build the ties between Africa, the Caribbean and our diaspora
• Support the quest for reparative justice, and the fight against racism and discrimination to achieve economic and social empowerment for people of colour.

About The Symposium

The one-day hybrid symposium took place in the context of renewed efforts by African and Caribbean countries to broaden, deepen, and accelerate functional cooperation in a wide range of development-related areas including trade, financial services, climate change mitigation, education and social services, foreign policy, security, migration, as well as the of nurturing cultural understanding, appreciation and a sense of belonging among Africans and people of African descent. This renewed interest is evident in the recent hosting of two Africa-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forums – the first in Barbados in September 2022, and the second in Guyana in November 2023.

The symposium aimed to foster collaboration and explore opportunities for African and Caribbean states to strengthen cooperation and conduct joint research in the key areas of Climate Change, Information Technology, and Innovation. It facilitated the sharing of ideas, experiences, and best practices. It developed a framework for advancing collaboration between African and Caribbean entities, researchers, and where possible, policy-makers in the areas identified for attention in this symposium. The Chief Rapporteur was Dr Glenford Howe, a special advisor with the PJ Patterson Institute.

Summary of Presentations

Opening Session: Locating the PJ Patterson Institute for Africa Caribbean Advocacy within the Global Space

Professor Anthony Bogues, Chair – Welcome and Opening Statement 

Professor Anthony Bogues commenced the symposium by highlighting the significance of the current global crises, particularly their adverse effects on Africa and the Caribbean. He identified debt, climate change, and war as critical issues.

Bogues provided historical context, tracing the legacy of cooperation and collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean. He referenced significant events such as the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) movement led by Marcus Garvey and the Fifth Pan African Congress, emphasising the historical ties between the two regions.

Moving to the contemporary moment, Bogues discussed the pressing issues of debt, climate change, and war. He highlighted the staggering increase in debt across Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa and questioned its impact on sustainable development. Bogues also pointed to the urgent need for cooperation in addressing climate change, attributing its roots to the practices of European colonialism.

Regarding war, Bogues drew attention to ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, emphasising the need for peacebuilding efforts. He questioned the exorbitant cost of the arms trade and advocated for cooperation to create zones of peace, and abandon war as a means of conflict resolution.

Bogues concluded by underscoring the importance of reigniting collective bonds between Africa and the Caribbean, focusing on economic collaboration and cultural exchange. He called for transformative action to address the current challenges and create a more hopeful future for the people of both regions.

The Hon. Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister, Barbados – Advancing Africa Caribbean Cooperation

In her opening remarks, which addressed the theme, Advancing Africa-Caribbean cooperation, Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados, highlighted the profound wisdom of James Baldwin’s words, emphasising the importance of facing history to enact meaningful change. She acknowledged the enduring injustices faced by communities of African descent, including slavery, imperialism, and colonialism, stressing the need for transformation towards a just and equitable society. Mottley affirmed the imperative for Africa-Caribbean cooperation in addressing historical injustices and advancing reparative justice, emphasising solidarity and partnership as essential to amplifying voices and advancing common interests on the global stage.

The Prime Minister outlined the significant challenges faced by Africa and the Caribbean, including inequality, poverty, and disenfranchisement perpetuated by global systems and structures. She called for a deeper partnership rooted in justice, equality, and human dignity, highlighting the moral imperative of cooperation beyond trade and commercial relations. Mottley expressed optimism about the potential for collaboration in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, digital innovation, healthcare, and education, emphasising the opportunity to build a future where every individual can thrive regardless of background or circumstances.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Mottley urged participants to draw inspiration from the spirit of unity and resilience that defines the shared history and heritage of Africa and the Caribbean. She emphasised the collective power to overcome obstacles and achieve goals, stressing the importance of seeing, hearing, and treating each other with dignity and respect. Mottley expressed gratitude for the opportunity to address the symposium and looked forward to the deliberations ahead, envisioning a future where fairness, justice, and equality are normative principles upheld by collaborative efforts.

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President of Nigeria – Linking the Caribbean and Africa

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo delivered a keynote address at a symposium focused on strengthening ties between Africa and the Caribbean. He highlighted the historical and cultural connections between the two regions, rooted in shared experiences of oppression and the legacy of the slave trade. Obasanjo emphasised past collaborations, such as joint efforts against apartheid and the leaders’ summit during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the need to explore critical areas like climate change, information technology, and innovation.

Obasanjo underscored the vulnerability of Africa and the Caribbean to climate change impacts, calling for a joint action plan to tackle adaptation, resilience, and natural disasters. He proposed establishing the Afro-Caribbean Foundation to support research and development in climate-smart actions and renewable engineering. Additionally, Obasanjo stressed the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing between the regions, advocating for technology transfer and cooperation in addressing common challenges.

In his recommendations, Obasanjo proposed the establishment of a framework for experience-sharing, with the PJ Patterson Institute playing a key role. He highlighted the imperative of technology transfer and collaboration, expressing readiness for cooperation from African institutions like the Bells University of Technology and the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library. Obasanjo concluded by urging sustained efforts to enhance development cooperation, emphasising the need for investments of time, research attention, and political will to transform the Africa-Caribbean relationship into one fit for purpose.

Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor, The UWI– Statement on the Role of the UWI in Advancing the Collective Interests of Africa and the Caribbean

• Prime Minister Eric Williams was frustrated that CARICOM did not federate itself. He implored future generations to unite Africa and the Caribbean diaspora so that wherever African people are located, they should be able to function as one community.
• The European colonial project had separation as its main purpose—the separation of people from their culture, humanity, and vision of a common future. This separation would eliminate the possibility of integration of the people of Africa in the future. Today, we have a responsibility to help people unite under one banner.
• Colonialism depended on the effects of separation.
• The response of Africans to this situation was pride. Pan-Africanism was a swift response and determination to reunite Africans.
• This began with Haiti in 1804 when Haiti declared freedom and citizenship for black people, launching the foundation for black freedom.
• The UWI has a critical role in promoting this agenda. The UWI was birthed within the context of struggle as a movement to stand against colonisation. It was not a British idea; it came out of the workers’ movement and Garvey’s proclamation about institutions of higher education as part of the workers’ revolution. 
• The UWI began as a medical school to repair the health of the people who had suffered the worst after 100 years of the British colonial establishment’s response to public health.
• Walther Rodney entered The UWI intending to teach African history to educate people in the environment around The UWI about Africa. The UWI laid the foundation to build bridges between Africa and the Caribbean. The UWI centres the world of decolonisation to normalise the circumstances under which the African diaspora and Africa can come together.
• The UWI’s Centre of African History at The University of Lagos was created to strengthen the foundation for global advocacy.
• The University Council approved the establishment of the PJ Patterson Institute as part of The UWI’s responsibility in laying the foundation for advocating for global Africa.
• Global Africa is a concept that needs future articulation. There is a need to establish differences between Pan-Africanism and Global Africa. Pan-Africanism was built around the notion that we must first free Africa and build intellectual solidarity around which this can happen. Global Africa comprises independent nations mobilised around Africa. Global Africa says the diaspora are now nations in their own right, part of the block to build solidarity.
• One of UWI’s most distinguished alumni conceptualised the idea of building an institute to strengthen the global advocacy of African-Caribbean principles. The University Council approved the PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy. Tremendous amounts of work need to be undertaken by The UWI in this agenda to create a lasting foundation for the 21st century. It took all of the 19th century to abolish slavery, and it took all of the 20th century to lay the foundation for decolonisation, human rights, and rights to citizenship.The 21st century will be centred around the fight for reparatory justice for the African diaspora, solidarity, and institution building.
• The African Union has declared that 2025 will be the year of reparation for Africa. We now have to build advocacy around this framework and create the structure for this to be actualised. We must work together as a united people in the Caribbean and Africa to end the separation imposed by Europe and create movement between Africa and the Caribbean.

 

The Most Hon. P.J. Patterson, Statesman-In-Residence – Statement on the work of the PJ Patterson Institute for African-Caribbean Advocacy

The PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy Symposium, themed ‘Strengthening Cooperation Between Africa & Caribbean States: Facing the Challenges, Creating Solutions,’ commenced with warm greetings extended to distinguished guests, including Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados, President Obasanjo of Nigeria, Vice Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles, and Senator Dr. Dana Dixon Morris. The symposium, chaired by Professor Anthony Bogues, aimed to discuss and enhance the existing ties between Africa and the Caribbean, emphasising the need for innovation, digitalisation, and cooperation in the face of global challenges.

The Institute, established in 2020, outlined its mission to foster collaboration, cultural exchange, and reparative justice between Africa, the Caribbean, and the Diaspora. It aims to serve as a research hub, focusing on pressing issues such as digital technology, food security, healthcare, climate resilience, and cultural expression. The symposium highlighted the importance of joint research and development projects, particularly in areas like healthcare and agriculture, where collaboration is essential for survival and progress.

Speakers emphasised the significance of cultural and creative expressions in uniting peoples of African descent, citing music as a powerful medium for connection. The Institute plans to explore various sectors, including tourism, sports, finance, trade, and investment, leveraging the expertise of scholars and experts from the region, Africa, and the Diaspora.

Drawing inspiration from Marcus Garvey, the Institute advocates for action, self-reliance, and collective vision to achieve freedom and prosperity. Attendees were invited to participate in the Africa Caribbean Reasoning series on UWI TV and encouraged to contribute to the Institute’s initiatives as valuable members of the global team. Overall, the presentation underscored the Institute’s commitment to fostering cooperation, sharing knowledge, and building a better future for the peoples of Africa and the Caribbean.

Acknowledgments were extended to all contributors, patrons, and panelists for their support in making the symposium a success. These included members of the PJ Patterson Institute, the Office of Global Affairs, and the Office of the Vice-Chancellor. Special thanks were extended to The Most Honourable Sir Kenneth Hall, one of the patrons of the Institute, for his invaluable assistance.

Session 1: Climate Change Mitigation Strategies: Opportunities for Africa and the Caribbean

Ms Sandrea Maynard, PVC Global Affairs, The UWI – Moderator– The UWI’s Role as Lead on SDG 13

Ms. Sandrea Maynard, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Global Affairs at The University of the West Indies, began her presentation by emphasising the importance of understanding the realities faced by the Caribbean and African regions, particularly in the context of climate change, and highlighted the urgent need for collective action concerning climate change and mitigation strategies.

She pointed out that The University of the West Indies (The UWI) has been actively involved in climate research and advocacy. UWI professors have made significant contributions to international reports on climate change, and the university has been recognised for its efforts, including being nominated as the lead on Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action) and leading a Global University Consortium on SDG 13.

She also noted that The UWI has several other centres across its campuses and research clusters, which include:

• Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies (CERMES – UWI Cave Hill Campus)
• Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD)
• Centre for Policy Studies in Sustainable Development
• Centre for Environmental Management (CEM)
• Disaster Risk Reduction Centre (DRCC)
• Climate Studies Group, The UWI Mona (Jamaica)
• Global Institute for Climate Smart and Resilient Development
• Institute for Gender & Development Studies
• Seismic Research Centre
• Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies (SALISES)

Her presentation addressed the increasing urgency of climate change given recent record-breaking temperatures and noted that the Caribbean region was particularly vulnerable despite contributing minimally to greenhouse gas emissions. She noted that The UWI has drafted a Climate Action Plan and Climate Justice Strategy and is implementing projects like the Geo Informatics System (GIS) to address climate change.

The importance of adaptation and mitigation strategies was reemphasised, with examples of real problems faced globally, particularly in coastal states in Africa and the Caribbean. She reiterated her call for collective action and stressed the need for funding, policy reform, and international cooperation.

Her speech highlighted the leadership role of The UWI and its commitment to climate action, echoing calls from global leaders like Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados. It emphasised the importance of partnerships and international collaboration in addressing climate change and creating a more sustainable future. She concluded by commending the work of the PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy in bridging the gap between the two regions and strengthening global advocacy efforts.

Professor Michael Taylor, Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology, Mona – Outcomes of COP 28 and its Relevance to Africa and the Caribbean

The presentation highlights four shared climate challenges between the Caribbean and Africa, drawing on data from IPCC reports and other scientific sources. These challenges include:

• Temperature Increases: Both regions have experienced significant warming trends, with Africa warming more rapidly than the global average. The Caribbean has also shown statistically significant warming trends.
• Increased Variability in Rainfall: Both regions are experiencing more variable rainfall patterns, leading to more frequent droughts and floods.
• More Extreme Weather Events: Climate change has led to an increase in heatwaves, droughts, hurricanes, and other extreme weather events in both the Caribbean and Africa.
• Rising Sea Levels: Both regions face the threat of rising sea levels, which can lead to coastal erosion, flooding, and loss of land.

The presentation emphasises the urgent need for collaborative action to address these challenges, as the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly unavoidable and disruptive to development trajectories. It calls for strong mitigation efforts, unavoidable adaptation measures, scaled-up research and technology agendas, structured education initiatives, and global climate finance strategies to address these pressing issues. Collaboration between the Caribbean and Africa, as well as global cooperation, is highlighted as essential for turning commitments into action and achieving sustainable development goals.

Professor Adeoye Akinola, Head of Research and Teaching, Institute for Pan-African Thought & Conversation, University of Johannesburg– Climate Mitigation & Resilience: The South Africa Story

Professor Adeoye O. Akinola’s presentation provided an insightful overview of the climate mitigation and resilience efforts in South Africa. Akinola emphasised the significant impact of climate change on the country, driven by rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events. He highlighted the dire consequences, including food insecurity, loss of agricultural productivity, increased frequency of vector- and waterborne diseases, and extensive damage to infrastructure and ecosystems.

Akinola outlined various sectors bearing the costs of climate change in South Africa, including agriculture, water resources, health, biodiversity, infrastructure, tourism, and energy. He stressed the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources, implementing climate-resilient agriculture practices, and enhancing early warning systems to mitigate climate impacts. Despite government efforts to align policies with the Paris Agreement, progress in resilience building has stalled, with a need for more effective policy implementation and involvement of the private sector.

Lessons learned from Akinola’s presentation include the urgent need for comprehensive climate action, prioritisation of low-emissions activities, and commitment to reducing plastic pollution. Recommendations made include deregulating the energy and electricity sector to accelerate the shift away from fossil fuels, increasing investment in renewable energy, and improving climate change literacy. Akinola also emphasised the importance of declaring a climate emergency in South Africa and increasing financing for climate adaptation.

Akinola’s presentation underscored the global responsibility for climate mitigation and resilience, advocating for climate-sensitive policies and reparations from global powers. He highlighted the potential for South Africa to leverage its memberships in multilateral forums and partnerships with Caribbean countries for effective knowledge sharing and learning-by-doing in climate action. In summary, this presentation emphasised the urgency of addressing climate change in South Africa and the importance of concerted efforts at the national and global levels to build resilience and mitigate its impacts.

H.E. Dr Carla Barnett, Secretary-General, Caribbean Community – Policy Perspectives: Mitigation Strategies

In her presentation, Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of CARICOM, focused on climate change mitigation strategies and cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean. She emphasised the significance of addressing climate change at the highest level of CARICOM, with efforts concentrated on sustainable development, the environment, and disaster management. She pointed out that despite contributing minimally to global emissions, the Caribbean faces significant climate change impacts, highlighting the importance of collaborative mitigation strategies.

Barnett outlined the cyclical process of global climate change negotiations, stressing the need for greater collaboration and coordination between Africa and the Caribbean. She emphasised CARICOM’s commitment to climate resilience and highlighted upcoming initiatives, such as the Fourth International Conference on Small Island and Low-Lying Coastal Developing States. She also underscored the importance of policy coordination and cooperation in addressing climate change at the global level, particularly through existing alliances and partnerships.

In terms of recommendations, Barnett highlighted two key mitigation strategies: transitioning to renewable energy sources and leveraging natural assets to balance the global carbon footprint. She emphasised the need for secure and sustainable energy supplies in the Caribbean, advocating for investments in low-carbon energy sources and modernising power grids. Additionally, Barnett discussed the potential of leveraging nature-based solutions, such as forests and blue carbon, to generate finance for resilient development. She called for transparent accounting systems and enhanced collaboration among developing states to maximise the effectiveness of these strategies.

Session 2: Information Technology and Innovation

Professor Paulette Ramsay, Research Fellow, PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy – Moderator – Statement on Information Technology and Innovation

Information Technology and Innovation

Information Technology (IT) / ICT provides amazing innovations to all aspects of our lives. This technology is highly celebrated as an important way of increasing the efficiency of organisations and individual undertakings.

IT/ICT in Education

Outside of the world of business, perhaps nowhere has it been recognised for how it holds the potential to provide opportunities to be innovative, as in the broad field of education. At all levels of the educational system, educators have embraced the research that indicates that IT /ICT can modify approaches to the delivery of content. However, many in the field of education still have not been able to access and use Information Technology in their classrooms for various reasons. Advocacy must begin by addressing questions of making IT available to all people in the Caribbean and Africa, especially for educational situations and teaching/learning contexts. Despite the dynamism and innovativeness of Information Technology, the best way to utilise it to improve educational outcomes is to combine it with appropriate pedagogical approaches and theories. In the areas of Foreign Languages Teaching, Humanities and Education, and some areas of the Social Sciences, the theory of Constructivism is promoted as the theoretical framework best suited for supporting the integration of IT in teaching/learning.

Advantages of IT/ICT

This integration has included Computer Assisted Teaching, a wide range of online resources, the use of the Moodle platform, and the Internet. The result has been the boost that the technology adds to teachers’ credibility and versatility. IT/ICT provides teachers with immediate access to many resources which help to enhance the presentation of material that might be unappealing because they allow the creation of virtual environments for students to explore using videos, live streaming, games, multimedia projects and other interactive activities. IT /ICT advances independent learning because the components of IT, especially the Internet, provide such a vast pool of resources. Students can be organised to do their own searches on topics at different levels to make their own discoveries. Games-based approaches are especially effective, as they motivate students’ interest. One interesting approach to the integration of Information Technology is Blended Learning which is becoming increasingly more popular in teaching, particularly at the tertiary level. This allows for versatility and flexibility in covering a curriculum and eases the monotony of face-to-face teaching which can often be more teacher-centred. The field of Translation has been greatly aided by the use of IT /ICT. The teaching of translation now includes the use of computer-assisted translation and communication between speakers of different languages has been greatly facilitated by programmes and apps that perform renderings of one language to the other. Outside of the delivery of classroom content, Information Technology is useful and important for helping students to develop technology literacy, as well as to learn how to be responsible users of online/digital resources. It is noteworthy that at the tertiary level IT /ICT has brought tremendous innovations outside of the pedagogical sphere and has revolutionised several central processes – registration, programme selection, setting of assignments, marking, grading and overall communication with students. This has brought well-needed modernity to this level of the educational system in the Caribbean and Africa.

Beyond Education: Attention on Africa and the Caribbean

Several UNESCO Reports and Internet Society Studies on trends in the integration of IT or ICT in Africa and the Caribbean have highlighted that while there have been improvements in several Sub-Saharan African and Caribbean countries, there are still several factors to be given attention. The Internet is highlighted as being underused, despite its ability to provide unparalleled access to information, virtual labs, ideas and people. The main concern is that access to the Internet is not distributed equitably across the world, with the African region lagging in bringing connectivity to schools, colleges and out-of-school learners. In the case of the Caribbean, some countries have been more successful than others in improving connectivity in schools, but in general, there are two main problems that these small states face – the lack of training of teachers to use technology and the lack of connectivity. In some places in the Caribbean, there is 100% connectivity to broadband in the primary schools, but less than 5% of teachers are trained to use the technology. In both the Caribbean and Africa, advocacy is key to overcoming these challenges. Stakeholders and wealthy philanthropists need to champion initiatives for improved internet connectivity in schools and communities. The cost of hardware, software and other IT components is an important factor in the discussion of IT and its potential for innovation in education. The tendency is to think that the devices used make the use of IT very costly. However, this does not have to be a deterrent. While there is a need for classrooms to have Wi-Fi or internet access, all students do not have to have a laptop or tablet, especially at the primary level. Advocacy efforts can explore alternative, low-cost solutions.

Advocacy and Globalisation: Beyond Education

IT empowers all advocacy efforts. Social media platforms enable organisations to connect with wider audiences, raise awareness about critical issues and mobilise communities for action. However, in today’s world in which so much emphasis is placed on globalisation, there needs to be a caveat. Indeed, while it is fair to say that IT/ICT has been a major tool in the effort to advance globalisation agendas, caution should be exercised to ensure that IT provides a path to real empowerment. Advocacy for the use of IT in promoting Africa-Caribbean relations and advancement should be mindful of how globalisation as a movement threatens the local context. International politics and ideologies compete against local culture in the selection, design and consumption of technology. Embracing this technology requires addressing existing challenges through sustained advocacy efforts. By ensuring equitable access, investing in teacher training and promoting culturally relevant content, we can leverage the power of IT/ICT to unlock the potential of all learners and help them participate in the process of creating solutions for the future; for the empowerment and liberation of all people in Africa and the Caribbean.

Mrs Nichole Case, Chief Information Officer, Grace Kennedy Group – Lessons learned from Information Technology to Increase Growth and Efficiencies: The GK Experience

Mrs. Nichole Case, Chief Information Officer of the Grace Kennedy Group, delivered a presentation titled ‘Lessons Learned from Information Technology to Increase Growth and Efficiencies: The Grace Kennedy Experience’ at the PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy symposium. In her presentation, Mrs. Case shared valuable insights gained from leveraging information technology (IT) to drive growth and enhance operational efficiency within the Grace Kennedy Group. She emphasised the importance of adopting innovative IT solutions tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities present in the Africa-Caribbean context.

Throughout her presentation, Mrs. Case highlighted the transformative power of IT in driving business growth and streamlining operations. She outlined how Grace Kennedy Group utilised IT tools and platforms to optimise various business processes, including supply chain management, customer relationship management, and financial reporting. By embracing digital technologies such as cloud computing, data analytics, and mobile applications, Grace Kennedy Group was able to improve decision-making, enhance collaboration, and deliver value to customers more effectively.

In addition to sharing success stories, Mrs. Case also offered valuable recommendations for organisations looking to harness the potential of IT for growth and efficiency. She emphasised the importance of investing in digital infrastructure, talent development, and cybersecurity to ensure the successful implementation and maintenance of IT solutions. Furthermore, Mrs. Case underscored the need for continuous innovation and adaptation to stay ahead in an ever-evolving technological landscape. By fostering a culture of innovation and agility, businesses can effectively leverage IT to drive sustainable growth and remain competitive in the global marketplace.

Professor Mammo Muchie, DST/NRF, Research Professor at the Faculty of Management Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology– The Role of Information Technology – Harnessing Information Technology for African Innovation: A Call to Action

In his presentation titled ‘The Role of Information Technology in Africa: The Driver of Innovation,’ Mammo Muchie emphasised the pivotal role of digital technology in driving innovation across Africa. He highlighted the urgency for Africa to embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and leverage digital technology to address longstanding developmental challenges.

Key Points:

• Digital Technology as the Catalyst for Innovation: Muchie stressed that digital technology, including artificial intelligence and IoT, is redefining global innovation landscapes. He emphasised the need for Africa to adopt and adapt to these technologies to foster sustainable development.
• African Unity through Innovation: Muchie advocated for African countries to unite and collaborate in fostering innovation, rather than working in isolation. He proposed the African Innovation Revolution (AIR) as a platform to harness Africa’s rich resources and drive sustainable development.
• Overcoming Developmental Challenges: Muchie urged Africa to learn from past industrial revolutions and ensure that the 4IR benefits all Africans. He emphasised the importance of investing in education, entrepreneurship, and indigenous knowledge to empower the continent’s youth and drive innovation.
• Digital Technology for Social Integration: Muchie highlighted the potential of digital technology to promote social cohesion and integration across Africa. He called for the application of technology to bridge divides and promote African spirituality, culture, and knowledge.
• Innovation in Education: Muchie emphasised the need for innovative approaches to education that prepare African youth for the digital age. He proposed a paradigm shift towards problem-solving and creativity to ensure that young Africans are equipped to thrive in the evolving job market.
• Examples of African Innovation: Muchie showcased several African innovations, including blockchain-enabled lending platforms in Kenya, nanotechnology applications in Nigeria, and health-tech startups in Uganda. He emphasised the importance of nurturing local talent and fostering a culture of innovation.
• Digital Technology for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Muchie highlighted the potential of digital technology to advance Africa’s progress towards achieving the UN SDGs. He emphasised its applications in agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, and poverty alleviation.
• Opportunities and Risks: Muchie acknowledged the opportunities presented by digital technology but also cautioned against potential risks, including military applications and erosion of civil liberties. He urged Africa to proactively address these challenges while maximising the benefits of digital innovation.

In conclusion, Mammo Muchie underscored the importance of embracing digital technology as a driver of African innovation. He called upon African governments, businesses, and civil society to collaborate in harnessing the power of digital technology to build a prosperous and sustainable future for the continent.

Dr Didacus Jules, Director General, OECS– Information, Technology & Innovation: Opportunities for Partnerships

Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, delivered a presentation on the topic ‘Information, Technology & Innovation: Opportunities for Partnerships.’ He emphasised the transformative power of rapid advances in information technology, particularly in extended reality (XR) technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). These technologies hold immense potential for revolutionising education by providing immersive learning experiences and bridging gaps in educational resources and access, especially in remote areas of Africa and the Caribbean. Additionally, Dr. Jules highlighted the potential of VR and AR in healthcare for training medical professionals, transforming tourism and cultural preservation, and enhancing agricultural practices for food security and sustainability.

He also discussed the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and financial services. He emphasised AI’s potential to enhance healthcare services through diagnostics, personalised treatment, and telemedicine platforms, particularly in rural areas with limited access to medical facilities. In agriculture, AI’s predictive analytics and monitoring can lead to more efficient farming practices and higher yields, contributing to self-sufficiency and resilience in food production. Furthermore, AI-powered financial services can promote financial inclusion by providing creditworthiness assessments for the unbanked and facilitating access to loans and other financial services, thereby supporting entrepreneurship and economic growth.

However, Dr. Jules stressed the importance of concerted efforts from all stakeholders to fully harness the potential of these technologies. Policymakers need to prioritise digital infrastructure development, ensure affordable internet access, promote digital literacy, and create a regulatory environment that fosters innovation while safeguarding privacy and security. Collaboration between governments, international tech companies, education institutions, and nonprofits will be crucial in transferring technology and building local capacities. By embracing these technologies, Africa and the Caribbean can address local challenges and position themselves as leaders in innovation-driven development, propelling their citizens towards prosperity, inclusion, and a brighter future.

In conclusion, Dr. Jules urged attendees to seize the opportunities presented by the digital revolution to transform the lives of citizens in Africa and the Caribbean. He emphasised the importance of technology as a bridge to prosperity and inclusion, highlighting the potential for collaboration and partnership to drive innovation and development in the region.

Lessons Learnt

The presentations highlighted a number of critical lessons learned:

• Historical Context and Collective Bonds: Understanding the historical ties between Africa and the Caribbean, including movements led by figures like Marcus Garvey, emphasises the importance of collective bonds. Acknowledging shared struggles and triumphs can foster a sense of solidarity and collaboration.
• Pressing Challenges: The symposium highlighted critical challenges such as debt, climate change, and war affecting both regions. Recognising these challenges is crucial for developing targeted solutions and fostering cooperation to address them effectively.
• Need for Cooperation: Addressing complex challenges like climate change requires cooperation and collaboration between African and Caribbean states. Shared experiences and resources can be leveraged to develop innovative solutions and mitigate the impacts of global crises.
• Role of Institutions: Institutions like the PJ Patterson Institute play a vital role in facilitating cooperation, cultural exchange, and advocacy. They provide platforms for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and strategic planning to advance shared interests and priorities.
• Climate Change Resilience and Adaptation: The symposium highlighted the urgent need for climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. Recognising shared challenges such as rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and rising sea levels underscores the importance of coordinated action to build resilience and reduce vulnerability.
• Digital Innovation for Development: Embracing digital technology and innovation is essential for driving economic growth and development. Investing in digital infrastructure, education, and entrepreneurship can empower communities and foster sustainable development in both regions.
• Unity and Collaboration: Speakers emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration among African countries and Caribbean states. By working together and pooling resources, both regions can amplify their voices on the global stage and achieve common goals.
• Cultural Exchange and Identity: Promoting cultural exchange and celebrating shared heritage can strengthen bonds between Africa, the Caribbean, and the diaspora. Cultural expressions like music and art serve as powerful tools for fostering understanding and solidarity among diverse communities.
• Youth Empowerment and Education: Investing in youth empowerment and education is crucial for building a brighter future for Africa and the Caribbean. Equipping young people with skills, knowledge, and opportunities prepares them to tackle current and future challenges and contribute to sustainable development.
• Sustainable Partnerships: Establishing sustainable partnerships between governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector is essential for driving progress and achieving shared objectives. By leveraging each other’s strengths and resources, African and Caribbean states can maximise their impact and create positive change.

These key lessons underscore the importance of collaboration, innovation, and collective action in confronting common challenges and creating solutions for the benefit of both regions.

 

Key Recommendations

Several recommendations were gleaned from the various presentations, including the following:

• Enhanced Cooperation and Collaboration: Both Africa and the Caribbean should prioritise strengthening cooperation and collaboration across various sectors, including trade, climate change mitigation, information technology, and innovation. This could involve the establishment of joint research projects, knowledge exchange programs, and policy dialogue platforms. In this regard, both regions should urgently heed the call by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo for the creation of a joint Caribbean-Africa foundation to facilitate cooperation in a range of areas and to support research and other actions relating to climate change, and generally bringing Africa and the Caribbean closer.
• Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: Given the shared climate challenges faced by both regions, there is a pressing need for robust collaborative climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. This includes implementing measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy sources, enhancing resilience to extreme weather events, and protecting vulnerable ecosystems.
• Digital Transformation and Innovation: Embracing digital technology and innovation is crucial for driving economic growth, improving efficiency, and fostering sustainable development. Africa and the Caribbean should prioritise investments in digital infrastructure, education, and entrepreneurship to harness the potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
• Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing: To effectively address common challenges and seize opportunities for cooperation, capacity building and knowledge sharing initiatives should be prioritised. This could involve establishing academic exchange programs, research collaborations, and training workshops focused on areas such as climate resilience, digital literacy, and innovation.
• Policy Coordination and Advocacy: African and Caribbean governments, along with relevant stakeholders, should work towards coordinating policies and advocating for collective action on regional and global platforms. This includes promoting policies that support sustainable development, address inequality, and advance the interests of people of African descent.
• Reparative Justice and Social Empowerment: The pursuit of reparative justice, as highlighted by the PJ Patterson Institute, should remain a central focus of efforts to strengthen cooperation between Africa, the Caribbean, and the Diaspora. This involves addressing historical injustices, combating racism and discrimination, and promoting economic and social empowerment for people of colour.
• Community Engagement and Cultural Exchange: To foster a sense of belonging and cultural understanding among Africans and people of African descent, community engagement and cultural exchange programs should be promoted. This could involve initiatives to facilitate the exchange of artists, scholars, entertainers, athletes, and sportspersons between Africa, the Caribbean, and the Diaspora.
• Sustainable Financing Mechanisms: Adequate financing is essential for implementing the recommended strategies and initiatives. Therefore, Africa and the Caribbean should explore sustainable financing mechanisms, including public-private partnerships, green bonds, and climate funds, to support priority areas such as climate resilience, digital infrastructure, and innovation.

By implementing these recommendations, Africa and the Caribbean can unlock new opportunities for cooperation, address shared challenges, and build a more prosperous and sustainable future for their peoples. 

Conclusion

The PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy Symposium, themed ‘Strengthening Cooperation Between African & Caribbean States: Facing the Challenges, Creating Solutions,’ served as a pivotal platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strategic planning. Held amidst renewed efforts to deepen functional cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean, the symposium underscored the pressing need for collaboration in addressing shared challenges and seizing opportunities for development.

Throughout the symposium, presenters emphasised the importance of historical context, collective bonds, and mutual understanding between Africa and the Caribbean. Acknowledging common struggles and triumphs, speakers highlighted the urgency of addressing pressing challenges such as debt, climate change, and conflict through unified action and cooperation.

Key lessons learned from the presentations include the vital role of institutions like the PJ Patterson Institute in fostering cooperation, the imperative of climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, and the transformative potential of digital innovation for sustainable development.

Moving forward, the symposium yielded several key recommendations for enhancing cooperation between African and Caribbean states. These include prioritising climate resilience, promoting digital transformation and innovation, strengthening capacity building and knowledge sharing, advocating for policy coordination, advancing reparative justice, fostering community engagement and cultural exchange, and exploring sustainable financing mechanisms.

By implementing these recommendations, Africa and the Caribbean can unlock new opportunities for collaboration, address shared challenges, and build a more prosperous and sustainable future for their peoples. The symposium marked a significant step forward in advancing Africa-Caribbean cooperation and laid the groundwork for continued dialogue and action towards achieving collective goals.