In observance of the annual African Union Day, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration held a flag-raising ceremony to symbolize unity and strengthen the bond among all fifty-five member states of the Union.
The event, held today, May 23, 2025, at the forecourt of the State House, was built on the theme “Justice for Africans and people of African descent through reparation,” which aims to promote a more just and united Africa.
Speaking at the event as a guest, the Minister for Communications, Digital Innovation and Technology, Samuel Nartey George, emphasized that the 62nd celebration of the African Union embodies the enduring commitment to integration, reparation, and the shared destiny of the African continent.
According to him, the theme for the 2025 African Union celebration presents a significant opportunity for advancing the continent’s efforts to address historical injustices. It also advocates for stronger legal and institutional mechanisms at national, regional, and international levels to ensure that justice for the historical trauma inflicted on global Africa is not just a conversation but a reality, as challenged by President John Dramani Mahama at the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union in Addis Ababa.
“This theme inspires us to embrace the collaborative approach to reparative justice with the vision of fostering equitable opportunities for all. The initiative also aligns with the AU’s Agenda 2063 for an integrated, peaceful and prosperous continent,” he stated. “President John Dramani Mahama called on fellow Heads of States to collectively act on securing Justice for Africans and individuals of African descent through reparations.”
He stressed the AU’s aim to address racism and economic exclusion, especially as the continent faces economic hardship, the harsh implications of climate change, conflicts, and governance challenges. He commended the collective fights against pandemics and terrorism, noting that the African continent continues to demonstrate its resilience and capacity to implement homegrown solutions.
He also encouraged the reaffirmation of the pledge to silence the guns and end conflicts, highlighting that peace and stability are the bedrock of development. He called for deepening regional integration and fostering stronger ties among nations while reinforcing democratic governance to ensure every voice is heard and represented.
“Peace and Stability serve as a solid foundation of sustainable development. We have a profound responsibility to our people, especially the women and children of Africa to cultivate a continent that is free from the shackles of violence and fear, allowing every individual to thrive in safety and dignity,” He elaborated. “As we have hoisted the flag of the AU and celebrate our shared commitment to unity and cooperation among member states, let it stand as a powerful symbol of our collective pride, our unwavering purpose and renewed commitment to shapen the Africa we envision.”
The African Union was born on May 25, 1963, after visionary leaders from 32 independent African States assembled in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Their goal was to forge unity among African nations, liberate the continent from colonialism and apartheid, and set Africa on the path of self-determination, peace, and prosperity.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
