By Henry Obetta

Founder of the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation, Mrs Esther Tonlagha, has called for collaboration between Africa and international countries especially Caribbeans in trade, education and investment.

According to her, stronger ties and collaboration between the nations would drive development and create opportunities for citizens on both sides of the atlantic.

Tonlagha made the call during the African Liberation Day celebration with the theme, “African Rooted, Diaspora Rising, Identity Reclaiming.”

In her remarks, she said: “As Africans, we are first of all brothers irrespective of the part of the world we find ourselves. We must remain committed to building a united front,”
Tonlagha emphasised that leadership in modern times must go beyond titles and deliver measurable, inclusive and sustainable impact.

“At EMT Foundation, we have consistently prioritised three pillars: empowerment, access and sustainability,” she said.

Also speaking at the event, Prime Minister of Greneda, Dickon Mitchell also called for stronger ties between Africa and the Caribbean, while celebrating the contributions of Nigerians living in Grenada and describing them as an important part of the country’s national life.

Mitchell said Africa and the Caribbean share a common history, identity and destiny, stressing that the relationship between both regions must move beyond symbolism into practical cooperation in trade, investment, culture and diplomacy.

“We are descendants of Africa and we must reclaim that,” Mitchell said, while welcoming Nigerians and other Africans present at the gathering.

The Prime Minister said Grenada remained committed to strengthening relationships with African nations and building partnerships that would benefit people of African descent globally.

Mitchell praised Nigerians living and working in Grenada, saying their contributions reflected the growing importance of Africa-Caribbean cooperation.

“We value your contribution to our national life and this gathering is testimony to the role that Nigerians play in the economy of Grenada,” he said.

According to him, the future of Africa and the Caribbean must be built collectively through deeper economic partnerships, cultural exchange and investment opportunities.

“We must deepen cooperation in trade and investment by expanding economic partnerships between our nations and create opportunities for businesses and innovation,” he said.

Reflecting on the significance of African Liberation Day, the prime minister said May 25 commemorates the formation of the African Union in Addis Ababa and symbolises the struggle against colonialism across Africa and the Caribbean.

He further called for patience and collective effort in building stronger Africa-Caribbean relations.

“One step at a time, we must build the bridge between Africa and the Caribbean — one trade partnership at a time, one investment opportunity at a time, one diplomatic initiative at a time,” he said.