Cristina Duarte

A man looks out to sea from the Door of No Return on Gorée Island, Senegal—a solemn memorial to the millions of Africans taken from their homeland during the transatlantic slave trade. The island stands today as a symbol of remembrance and resilience.

Beyond compensation: Reparatory justice as a structural economic imperative for Africa

In 2025, the African Union has set a powerful and necessary theme: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.” It is a call not just for reflection, but for clarity, courage, and a strategic reframing of the reparations discourse.

The duality of the education challenge in Africa: Historical imperatives and 21st-century necessities

youthExploring Africa's educational journey: from historical triumphs to modern challenges. Reshaping the continent's future through innovative education.

“Africa’s COP" should not neglect Africa’s concerns

COP27 climate

It unconscionable to arm-twist the entire continent into accepting an unrealistic "only renewables from now on" argument

Walvis Bay on the Atlantic Ocean is the main port in Namibia and home to many fishing companies.

Africa’s strategic priorities to recover better

Africa COVID-19 recovery

— Cristina Duarte, UN Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser on Africa.

Under Secretary General Cristina Duarte, Special Adviser on Africa to the UN Secretary-General

Post-COVID-19: A chance to leapfrog Africa’s development through digitalization

Africa COVID-19 DigitalizationFor the continent’s recovery from the pandemic, harnessing innovation is crucial.