Following the passing of U.S. Civil Rights leader, Reverend Jesse Jackson in February 2026, numerous African nations and regional bodies paid tribute to him as a “global moral authority,” “friend of Africa,” and a key supporter of liberation movements.
Liberia President Joseph Boakai described Reverend Jackson as a towering figure in the struggle for civil rights, social justice, and human dignity.
Jackson’s lifelong advocacy for equality, democratic values, and the empowerment of marginalized communities resonated far beyond the borders of the United States and inspired millions across the world, including in Liberia, Boakai said.
- South Africa: President Cyril Ramaphosa led tributes, describing Jackson as a “global moral authority” who supported the anti-apartheid struggle and was awarded the Order of the Companions of O.R. Tambo in 2013.
- Nigeria: President Bola Tinubu honoured him as a “great friend of Nigeria and Africa” for his work in promoting democracy and fighting against military dictatorship.
- Namibia: The government expressed gratitude for his role in supporting the country’s independence struggle, with plans for a, remembrance ceremony.
- Kenya: President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta paid tribute to his dedication to justice and human dignity.
- Other Nations: Tributes also highlighted his solidarity work across Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, DR Congo, and Liberia.
The African Union Commission paid tribute to his lifelong commitment to anti-colonial struggles.
AU Chairman Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, highlighted Jackson’s historic commitment to anti-colonial struggles and the fight against apartheid.
In an official statement, Youssouf described the American leader as a figure of enormous moral influence. He noted that his career was deeply intertwined with African demands for justice, equality, and liberation.
He emphasized that his sustained defense of civil rights and economic justice was consistent with the principles of the continental organization. He also highlighted his support for political inclusion and the fight against racial discrimination.
The African leader recalled that Jackson promoted a strong relationship between Africa and African Americans for decades. He popularized the term “African American” in the 1980s, reinforcing identity and historical awareness.
He also evoked his vision of the Atlantic as a bridge between peoples united by a common heritage. He advocated for mutually beneficial cooperation between the continent and its diaspora, which he considered a strategic partner.
Youssouf also emphasized his moral support for the fight against apartheid in southern Africa. He expressed his condolences to the United States and affirmed that his legacy will endure in the collective African memory.
