The Hilton Hotel Croydon was transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, diplomacy, and global solidarity on Friday, 5th September, as the 7th AIDO International Convention brought together African royals, Caribbean leaders, business executives, human rights defenders, and diaspora communities from across the globe.

With the theme “Breaking Chains, Building Bridges: From Awareness to Action,” the convention shone a powerful spotlight on modern-day slavery, human trafficking, reparations, and Pan-African economic empowerment issues that continue to shape the destiny of Africa and its diaspora.

The event opened in spectacular style with the royal procession of Traditional African Kings and Queens, set to the rhythm of the Bantu Dance Group, followed by anthems of the UK, African Union, and AIDO. In his opening welcome, His Highness Dr. Paul Eganda, President of AIDO Network International, alongside Her Highness Dr. Grace Eganda, reminded delegates of AIDO’s mission: “to connect the African family worldwide, confront injustice, and forge pathways for shared prosperity.”

Ambassador Omositson Namboka, represented by Dr. Yehoeshahfaht Ben Israel, delivered a stirring keynote on “Breaking Chains: Modern Day Slavery and Human Trafficking.” He emphasised the urgent need for a global convention to address these crimes, rooted in the humanist philosophy of Ubuntu.

Her Royal Highness Queen Achom II (Dr. Hilary Brown), Programme Manager at the CARICOM Secretariat, addressed “Reconnection, Repair and Reparations.” She laid out CARICOM’s 10-point Reparations Plan, underscoring that justice for historical wrongs is essential for healing and development.

Tim Morris, former British Ambassador, closed the business forum with a keynote titled “Unlocking the Power of Pan-African Trade: From Dialogue to Action,” calling for practical steps to boost intra-African and diaspora trade partnerships.

Reparations, Repair, and Reconnection: Moderated by Dr. Hilary Brown (Queen Achom II), this session featured Chief Eric Phillips Siphosezulu, Dr. Ben Israel Yehoeshahfaht, Queen Mother Violet Smith, and QM Dr Myrna Belgrave and others, who made an impassioned case for reparative justice as the foundation of unity.

Modern Day Human Trafficking and Slavery: Chaired by Martin Weightman, the panel brought together experts like Keith Best, Dr. Sheikh Ramzy, and Nicola Garrington to propose grassroots and policy-level solutions.

Unity and Sustainable Partnerships: Led by Chief Eric Phillips, speakers including Princess Ulrike Pohlman, Chief Captain Dion Haynes, Princess Africa, and Dr. Antonis Kousoulis showcased how culture, heritage, and grassroots action can create resilient communities.

Business Forum – Building Trade Bridges: Facilitated by Prince Bimbo Roberts Folayan, with investors such as Peter Walker, Thierry Bayle, and Sophie Deye, the forum explored trade, ESG-driven investments, and diaspora-led entrepreneurship as engines of transformation.

The convention concluded with the signing of a declaration by all delegates led by the African traditional leaders, a commitment to unity, reparations, and grassroots empowerment. Delegates agreed on the urgent need to:

• Strengthen awareness campaigns against modern slavery.
• Support migrant worker protections and human rights education.
• Advocate for reparatory justice
• Mobilise resources for diaspora investment in Africa and the Caribbean.
• Champion women’s empowerment, youth resilience, and cultural diplomacy.

“This gathering has once again proven that AIDO is a movement of people committed to justice, healing, and prosperity for the African world,” concluded Chief Eric Phillips, summarising the day’s highlights.

As the curtains closed, the resonant call was clear: the African family is uniting, repairing, and building bridges across continents. The next AIDO annual convention will be held in Uganda from the 23rd – 25 May 2026.

AIDO PRESS UNIT
Email:info@aidonetwork.org