By Chukwuma Umeorah Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell, has called for stronger diplomatic, trade and cultural relations between Africa and the Caribbean, saying both regions must deepen cooperation beyond historical connections. Mitchell spoke during the African Liberation Day celebration held under the theme, “African Rooted, Diaspora Rising, Identity Reclaiming,” where he also commended Nigerians living in Grenada for their contribution to the country’s economy and national life. The Grenadian leader said Africa and the Caribbean share a common history and identity, stressing that future engagement should focus on practical cooperation in investment, trade and diplomacy. “We are descendants of Africa and we must reclaim that,” Mitchell said while addressing participants at the event. He described the presence of Nigerians and other Africans at the gathering as symbolic of renewed engagement between both regions. “The Atlantic that was used for forced separation is now a deliberate bridge for reconnection,” he stated. According to him, Grenada remains committed to building stronger partnerships with African nations and creating opportunities that would benefit people of African descent globally. “We welcome you as brothers and sisters in a shared history, in a shared identity and in a shared destiny, bonded by history and united by purpose,” he said. Mitchell said Nigerians living and working in Grenada have become part of the country’s economic and social development. “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. The prime minister added that stronger Africa-Caribbean relations should include expanded business cooperation and investment opportunities. Mitchell noted that despite Grenada’s size as an island nation, the country intends to play an active role in strengthening ties with Africa and the wider African diaspora. “Though Grenada may be small in size, we are not small in identity, courage and commitment to building a modern nation with Africa,” he stated. Speaking on the significance of African Liberation Day, Mitchell said the event commemorates the formation of the African Union in Addis Ababa on May 25 and reflects the historical struggle against colonialism in Africa and the Caribbean. He, however, noted that Africa and people of African descent continue to face challenges including economic inequality, political instability and underdevelopment. “For too long, our history was written by others. Our systems only received us as labour and not as people, as subjects and not agents of civilisation,” he said. He added that reclaiming African identity requires recognising that African history predates slavery and includes longstanding civilisations and cultural contributions. “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 added. Esther Tonlagha, founder of the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation, said stronger collaboration between Africa and Caribbean nations in trade, education and investment would help create economic opportunities and support development. “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,” she said. Tonlagha also urged Africans to shape and communicate their own narratives. “It is our responsibility to tell our own story. No one can do that better than us,” she added.