African Holocaust: A Secular Humanist Perspective on Reparations for Colonialism and Slavery

By Bwalya Phiri

When I reflect on the legacy of slavery and colonialism in Africa, it does not feel like something from a distant past. It continues to shape the realities of our societies, economies, and political systems. The term "African Holocaust" captures the immense suffering Africans endured under centuries of European exploitation and dehumanization. From my perspective as a Zimbabwean humanist, the question of reparations is not only about historical justice. It is also about how we can use that history to create real change, build societies where human dignity is central, and ensure opportunities are accessible to all.

Looking closely at the past, it is clear how deeply colonialism and slavery harmed African communities. Lives were lost, social systems disrupted, and economies structured to benefit foreign powers rather than local populations. For many Europeans, this history may seem distant, but for Africans, its effects are still visible in inequality, land disputes, and political exclusion. Facing this truth requires empathy paired with reason. A humanist perspective encourages us to examine these realities critically, without relying on religion or outdated narratives that distort the facts.

When considering reparations, I believe Africa should not depend on receiving money. Asking descendants of those involved in slavery to pay today is neither feasible nor just. What Africa needs is freedom from the economic systems, red tape, and restrictions that hold our nations back. With our immense natural resources, we have the capacity to build strong, independent economies that serve our people first. In this sense, reparations should be measured in justice, autonomy, and opportunities for self-determination rather than financial compensation.

This perspective guides what practical action could look like in Zimbabwe. Policies and initiatives that focus on equitable land access, education, healthcare, and sustainable community projects reflect humanist principles in action. At the same time, local initiatives, such as those supported by HuMAN, demonstrate how humanist values can translate into everyday life. Mutual aid networks, educational programs, and sustainability projects improve lives directly while building community resilience that supports larger systemic reforms.

Looking beyond our borders, international examples like reparations for Holocaust survivors show that acknowledging injustice is a moral responsibility as much as a legal or political one. For Zimbabwe, this teaches us that moral recognition should be combined with practical action. Advocacy for justice goes hand in hand with creating systems that allow communities to thrive independently, producing tangible outcomes while inspiring broader societal change.

Thinking about Zimbabwe today, the lessons of the African Holocaust are especially relevant. The injustices of the past continue to shape how power and resources are shared. By applying a humanist lens, we can translate these lessons into strategies for freedom, economic independence, and community empowerment. Zimbabwe has the talent, resources, and potential to rise without relying on monetary compensation from others. True reparations come from dismantling structural barriers, supporting mutual aid, and building societies based on reason, compassion, and human dignity. Our history can guide the work we do today, helping ensure that equality and justice are not just ideals but realities for everyone.