Bamako has hosted the premiere of a new documentary, Reparations: The Colonial Debt, drawing wide public and media attention. Produced under the Réveil d’Afrik initiative, the film explores Africa’s ongoing debate on reparations from former colonial powers.
The documentary, directed by filmmaker and researcher Ibrahima Sow, highlights colonial-era abuses and their enduring impact on African societies. It examines political and economic pressures that remain, while outlining possible legal frameworks through which governments could pursue reparations at the international level.
The film includes contributions from leading African scholars. Professor Gnaka Lagoke, a Pan-African Studies expert from Côte d’Ivoire, Fode Moussa Sidibé, a Malian historian, and sociologist and writer Aminata Dramane Traoré all share their perspectives. Sidibé stated that “France has inflicted lasting harm on Mali — seeking reparations is both a right and a responsibility owed to future generations.”
The premiere gathered politicians, academics, media representatives and members of the judiciary. Among them was Hon. Fousseynou Ouattara, Vice-President of Mali’s National Defence Commission, who condemned the colonial occupation, describing it as exploitative and dehumanising.
Also present was Fousseyni Maiga, Director of the National Film Centre and one of Mali’s leading filmmakers. Representing the Minister of Culture, he announced that 2025 has been designated as the “Year of Culture” in Mali. He emphasised that the film will be screened in universities to raise awareness among students and lecturers about the historical foundations of the reparations debate.
Speakers and attendees agreed that reparations are central to Africa’s pursuit of justice, dignity and self-determination. The documentary will be broadcast nationwide on ORTM and Africable Television, extending its reach across Mali and the wider continent.
