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The Democratic Alliance (DA) joins the rest of the continent in celebrating the 45th anniversary of Africa Day on Monday, 25 May, 2009 to commemorate the formation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963.

Africa has come a long way in overcoming many of the challenges that led to the formation of the OAU. The spread of democracy on the continent shows that Africa is making strides in overcoming non-democratic practices. However, the continued existence of chronic diseases, endemic poverty as well as corruption and the threat of human rights abuses continue to hamper the continent's prosperity.

The peaceful transfer of power in Botswana, Ghana and Sierra Leone, and most recently Malawi, are all signs that democracy can flourish on the continent. The challenge now is to use the African Union, the Pan African Parliament, and all regional organisations to consolidate the gains made in these countries to promote free and fair elections, the promotion of good governance, and economic development throughout the continent.

The DA appeals to all leaders on the continent to work together to make Africa a continent of prosperity and opportunity for all.