Mobutu's 1973 UN Speech: A Powerful Message from the Past

Mobutu's 1973 UN Speech: A Reminder of Colonialism's Legacy On October 12, 1973, Mobutu Sese Seko, then president of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), delivered a powerful speech at the United Nations. A recently surfaced video clip highlights a portion of this address, focusing on the lasting impact of colonialism on Africa. Mobutu's words, "L'Afrique est un continent qui a subi les plus grandes humiliations de l'histoire" (Africa is a continent that has suffered the greatest humiliations of history), encapsulate the speech's central theme. The clip shows Mobutu speaking passionately, his words subtitled for clarity. He condemns the exploitative practices of colonial powers, particularly the slave trade, which he describes as a "pratique honteuse" (shameful practice). The video's impact lies in its ability to bring this historical moment to a modern audience. It serves as a stark reminder of the injustices of the past and their relevance to contemporary issues. While the video clip is short, it effectively communicates a powerful message. The use of subtitles ensures accessibility for a wider audience. The video's clear and concise presentation makes it easily digestible for viewers unfamiliar with Mobutu's speech. The video concludes with a call to remember the past to prevent history from repeating itself.