The African Legacies Institute (ALI) a pioneering organization dedicated to preserving, honoring, and promoting the legacies of democratic African Heads of State and Government, achieved a significant milestone during a high-profile visit to Washington, D.C. Leading the delegation was Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, who was among a select group of former heads of state invited by the Multicultural Coalition Presidential Inaugural Ball Committee. Accompanying him were ALI officials Rachelle Yayi, Franya Cabral Ruiz, Sheree M. Mitchell, and George Williams II. Representing the Institute with distinction,  Hailemariam Desalegn highlighted ALI’s mission to preserve Africa’s democratic legacies, emphasizing the importance of good governance, peaceful transitions of power, and sustainable development to an engaged and supportive audience.

The visit reinforced ALI’s unwavering commitment to celebrating and safeguarding the contributions of Africa’s democratic leaders. As of 2025, 36 living former African Heads of State and Government have successfully overseen democratic transitions. Their enduring legacy, marked by integrity, visionary leadership, and adherence to constitutional principles, serves as an inspiration for future generations and underscores Africa’s commitment to peace, unity, and sustainable democracy.

Dodai, Ethiopia’s leading Emotorbike manufacturer and distributor, has announced a groundbreaking initiative to cover the cost of license plates for its first 250 customers. This move marks a historic step in making Emotorbike ownership more accessible and affordable in Ethiopia, paving the way for a greener future.

As part of this initiative, Dodai has supported its customers in establishing the first ever Electricmotorbike owners Association in Ethiopia  with over 280 members currently, a pioneering effort to streamline the licensing process for electric vehicle owners. The association will provide support and resources to ensure a seamless transition to sustainable transportation, further enhancing the ownership experience and making sure members follow proper city traffic regulations.

Dodai founder and CEO Yuma Sasaki stated, “We are thrilled to have sold over 750 electric motorbikes, a milestone that has enabled us to launch this initiative. By covering license plate costs and establishing this association, we are not only simplifying the ownership process but also advancing Ethiopia’s electric mobility revolution. Our goal is to make sustainable transportation accessible to all.”

At the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, held under the theme of “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” Mr. Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), delivered a powerful statement addressing the historical injustices faced by African nations and their people.

In his opening remarks, Gatete expressed gratitude to the African Union Commission for prioritizing the theme of reparations and commended AU Chairperson Mr Moussa Faki Mahamat for his exemplary leadership. He acknowledged the commitment of Heads of State and Government to launch the reparations theme in their countries, signaling a unified resolve to seek justice for Africa and its diaspora.

Gatete emphasized the lasting impact of the transatlantic slave trade and colonial exploitation, which he argued robbed Africa of its people, resources, and dignity. He pointed out that these historical injustices have resulted in persistent inequalities in global financial systems, trade structures, and governance institutions that continue to afflict the continent today.

Highlighting Africa’s economic potential, he noted that the continent is home to 30% of the world’s mineral reserves and 65% of arable land. Yet, Africa accounts for a meager 3% of global trade and only 1% of manufacturing output. This stark contrast, he argued, is due to entrenched structural barriers that perpetuate economic dependency.