As the 2025 Emancipation Day draws near, a former Republic Bank executive and public policy consultantRobert Le Hunteis advocating for a courageous economic transformation—one that reimagines the enduring impact of the transatlantic slave trade within a contemporary structure of Afro-Caribbean commerce and growth.
In a compelling editorial titled“From Vessels of Enslavement to Merchant Vessels,”published in the Trinidad Express, Le Hunte stated that it is now the time for Caribbean countries - especiallyTrinidadand Trinidad—to involve Africa not only culturally, but also in business.
"Let us direct vessels to the east—without burdens, but with prospects. Not in quietude, but in unity," he wrote.
Central to his message is an appeal to Trinidad and Tobago's producers and decision-makers to focus on Africa, especiallyWest Africa, as a hub for commerce, investment, and collaboration. Given that the continent has a population of 1.5 billion, with 467 million residing in West Africa, the opportunities are clear.
Le Hunte's comments come days beforeEmancipation Dayfestivities, reminding residents that genuine tribute to their forebears is not solely about memory but about regaining control througheconomic empowerment.
"Let Emancipation 2025 be recalled as the time we transformed history into trade and memory into drive," he wrote.
He commended Trade Minister Satyakama Maharaj for encouraging domestic manufacturers to seek prospects in Africa—a step he feels has been delayed for too long. “This is a vision that is finally arriving at the right moment,” Le Hunte said.
Le Hunte emphasizes Africa's evolution: a youthful, rapidly expanding population, growing middle class, and more investor-oriented policies fueled by initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He warned, nevertheless, that achieving success in Africa demands a focused approach—not idealism. "Africa is not one country," he emphasized. "It is a continent comprising 54 nations, each with its own unique markets, cultures, and legal systems."
He encouraged companies to begin in West Africa, where historical connections are most robust, and expand from there.
Actionable suggestions provided by Le Hunte are:
- Creating air and sea connections between the Caribbean and Africa
- Facilitating export preparedness for local enterprises to comply with African market requirements
- Enhancing organizational and diplomatic relationships
- Establishing collaborative ventures and government-private sector alliances
- Seeking double taxation agreements to minimize risks associated with international investments
You can't conduct business in Africa from a desk in Port of Spain," he stated. "You need to walk the streets of Accra, meet distributors in Lagos, and engage with decision-makers in Abidjan.
Although recognizing the common heritage between the Caribbean and Africa, Le Hunte cautioned against believing in cultural uniformity. "Our business cultures are not the same," he stated, urging Caribbean businesses to focus on cultural awareness, flexibility, and respect.
He recognizes significant potential in agro-processing, education, energy services, entertainment, and construction materials—fields where Caribbean knowledge could align with African needs.
Le Hunte highlighted the existence of Republic Bank in Ghana and Afreximbank's newly established office in Barbados as instances of effective Caribbean-African partnership, noting that additional organizations should emulate this approach.
"This is the way we create framework for our strategy," he clarified.
In the end, Robert Le Hunte's message carries both symbolic and strategic significance: the very Atlantic Ocean that once transported enslaved Africans into servitude can now serve as a path for rejuvenation and collaboration.
"The historical connections between the Caribbean and Africa are based on hardship. Yet, within this difficult past, there is the possibility for strong cultural bonds, common values, and effective economic collaboration," he stated.
On the occasion of Emancipation Day in the region, his message extends well beyond remembrance: it serves as a call to reenvision legacy, regain control, and build prosperity—collectively.
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