Ramokgopa: Africa Day marks AU’s legacy and vision
Minister in the Presidency Maropene Ramokgopa says Africa Day is a significant marker on the quest for unity on the continent.
Africa Day, celebrated on 25 May, marks the day the African Union’s predecessor was founded.
The AU was originally established as the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on May 25, 1963, and relaunched in July 2002 in Durban.
Briefing the media on Sunday at the 3rd G20 Development Working Group Meeting in KwaZulu-Natal, Ramokgopa said the AU continues to advance multilateralism and solidarity.
“We meet on a significant day, as the African continent and the global community celebrate this day, which we call Africa Day. We remember the founding of the Organisation of African Unity, where 33 African governments joined hands to establish this organisation,” said Ramokgopa.
The minister added that the establishment of the organisation was to underscore the importance of solidarity and partnership in fostering development for the continent and ensuring liberation.
“It is therefore befitting that the South African government commemorates Africa Day with the theme ‘Building the Africa we want through Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability’.”
Ramokgopa also lauded former African National Congress leader, Chief Albert Luthuli, saying he was a titan in the quest to ensure unity amongst Africans.
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