We, respectfully request that you send Haiti’s 2016 notification for membership in the African Union (AU) to all AU Member States for their review and decision.
Haiti, known as the world’s first free black republic, informed the AU of its intention to join the Union in 2016, based on Article 29 of the Constitutive Act of the African Union. According to this article, admission should be determined by a simple majority vote among AU Member States. However, the AU Commission decided not to admit Haiti, citing that “only African countries can join the AU,” implying that Haiti is not considered an African country.
We contest this decision. While Haiti is not geographically on the African continent, AU law recognizes it as legally part of the African Continent. This is supported by Article 3(q) of the Protocol on the Amendments to the Constitutive Act of the African Union. Furthermore, approximately 95% of Haitians are descendants of Africans who were enslaved and forcibly brought to the Caribbean, creating a substantial historical and cultural connection.
Had Haiti’s membership notification been forwarded and accepted by a simple majority, Haiti would have had the opportunity to join the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), benefiting both its development and Africa’s economic integration.
We urge you to follow the example set by the General Secretariat of the Arab League, which has not allowed geography to limit its adherence to Article 1 of the Charter of the League of Arab States. This has allowed several North African countries to be full members of the Arab League despite not being part of the Arabian Peninsula. Additionally, the United States provides a relevant example: despite not being part of the continental U.S., Hawaii enjoys full rights as a state, as proven by Barack Obama’s presidency.
Excellency, we earnestly implore you to transmit Haiti’s membership notification to all AU Member States for their decision. Doing so will reaffirm the AU’s commitment to justice, equality, and international solidarity.
Sincerely,
The Prince & Princess Charles Offokaja Foundation Supporters of #JusticeForHaiti
Haiti, a Caribbean nation that occupies the western part of the island of Hispaniola, is a land of rich culture, natural beauty, and resilient spirit. Here are some reasons why Haiti stands out:
Natural Wonders
Breathtaking Landscapes
Haiti offers stunning natural landscapes, from pristine beaches with turquoise waters to lush green mountains. The picturesque bays and expansive waterfalls, such as Bassin-Bleu near Jacmel, are a testament to the island’s natural beauty.
Amazing Biodiversity
The country is home to a vast array of flora and fauna. National parks and reserves, like La Visite National Park, provide a sanctuary for endemic species and an opportunity for eco-tourists to explore diverse ecosystems.
Cultural Richness
Vibrant Art Scene
Haiti is renowned for its vibrant art scene. Haitian art is celebrated worldwide for its colorful paintings, metal sculptures, and intricate beadwork. Artists from the country often depict scenes of everyday life, folklore, and spirituality with powerful visual storytelling.
Music and Dance
Haitian music is an integral part of the country’s culture, with traditional genres like Compas, Rara, and drumming enthralling locals and visitors alike. Dance plays a crucial role in celebrations, reflecting the lively and joyous spirit of the Haitian people.
Historical Significance
Rich History
Haiti holds a significant place in world history as the first independent black republic, achieving independence in 1804 after a successful slave revolt. The Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as an impressive fortress symbolizing the country’s fight for freedom and resistance.
Historical Sites
The country is dotted with historical sites, from the charming colonial architecture in Cap-Haïtien to the royal palace ruins in Sans-Souci. These sites offer a deep dive into Haiti’s storied past and its cultural heritage.
Warm and Welcoming People
Haitians are known for their hospitality and warmth. Despite facing numerous challenges, the people of Haiti exhibit unparalleled resilience and optimism, making visitors feel welcome and appreciated.
Culinary Delights
Unique Cuisine
Haitian cuisine is a delightful fusion of African, French, and Taino influences. Popular dishes such as Griot (fried pork), Accra (malanga fritters), and Joumou soup (pumpkin soup served on Independence Day) provide a flavorful culinary experience.
Discovering the Beauty of Cap-Haïtien, Haiti
Visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, should be on every traveler’s bucket list. This vibrant city, located on the northern coast, offers a unique blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences. Here are some reasons why Cap-Haïtien stands out:
Natural Wonders
Breathtaking Landscapes
When you are visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, you’ll encounter stunning natural landscapes, from pristine beaches with turquoise waters to lush green mountains. The picturesque bays and expansive waterfalls, such as Saut-Mathurine, are a testament to the region’s natural beauty.
Amazing Biodiversity
Visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, means exploring a city that is home to a vast array of flora and fauna. Nearby national parks and reserves, like Parc National Historique, provide a sanctuary for endemic species and an opportunity for eco-tourists to explore diverse ecosystems.
Cultural Richness
Vibrant Art Scene
When you are visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, you’ll experience a place celebrated for its vibrant art scene. The city is renowned for its colorful paintings, metal sculptures, and intricate beadwork. Local artists often depict scenes of everyday life, folklore, and spirituality with powerful visual storytelling.
Music and Dance
Haitian music is an integral part of the country’s culture, and Cap-Haïtien is no exception. Traditional genres like Compas, Rara, and drumming will enthrall you as a visitor. Dance also plays a crucial role in celebrations, reflecting the lively and joyous spirit of the people. By visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, you’ll witness this vibrant musical heritage firsthand.
Historical Significance
Rich History
Visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, allows you to explore a city with a significant place in world history. Known as the birthplace of Haitian independence, the region is dotted with historical sites like the Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This impressive fortress stands as a symbol of the country’s fight for freedom and resilience.
Historical Sites
The charming colonial architecture in Cap-Haïtien and the royal palace ruins in Sans-Souci offer a deep dive into Haiti’s storied past and its cultural heritage. These sites provide an enriching experience for those visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti.
Warm and Welcoming People
Haitians are known for their hospitality and warmth, and Cap-Haïtien is no different. Despite facing numerous challenges, the people of this city exhibit unparalleled resilience and optimism, making visitors feel welcome and appreciated. When you are visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, you’ll experience this heartfelt hospitality firsthand.
Culinary Delights
Unique Cuisine
Visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, means savoring its delightful cuisine, which is a fusion of African, French, and Taino influences. Popular dishes such as Griot (fried pork), Accra (malanga fritters), and Joumou soup (pumpkin soup served on Independence Day) provide a flavorful culinary experience.
Fresh Ingredients
Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and locally grown spices are abundant, adding a distinctive taste to the dishes in Cap-Haïtien that is both authentic and unforgettable. When you are visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, you’ll enjoy these fresh ingredients and unique flavors.
Experience the vibrant culture, explore the natural wonders, and immerse yourself in the rich history when you are visiting Cap-Haïtien, Haiti – a gem in the heart of the Caribbean.
Fresh Ingredients
Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and locally grown spices are abundant, adding a distinctive taste to Haitian dishes that is both authentic and unforgettable.
Experience the vibrant culture, explore the natural wonders, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Haiti – a gem in the heart of the Caribbean.
17 People were provided with 28000 Naira. Our online giving smoothly complements our offline giving.
While our offline giving helps us to identify the needy who may have no access to the internet, our online giving helps us to project our giving efforts to many people we may not be able to physically give due to distance.
To see more of our giving, explore the social media handles of the Offokaja Foundation and our partners Igbodefender.
