Issued by: Dept of Foreign Affairs
24 May 2000
The celebrations of the first Africa day and the anniversary of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May, in the first year of the new millennium has a special meaning and significance for our country, region and continent.
The African continent and the OAU have irrevocably embarked on a road in ensuring that they will get their due recognition. In this new millennium, on this joyous day, we are reminded of the steadfast role that the OAU has played in the liberation of many of our countries - including our own. The Democracies that today flourish in Africa, in no small way, owe appreciation to the unwavering efforts of the OAU to give to the people of Africa, the right to rule themselves. Africa has chosen the road of democracy, stability, security, economic integration and prosperity and has stated its determination to stay the course through its collective voice, the OAU. This new spirit that has taken route, will grow through the renaissance of Africa and also free us from poverty, disease, conflict and want.
We in Africa, do not hesitate in our resolve to make this new millennium the century of Africa, because we have confidence in our collective strength in the OAU. We know what realistically we can accomplish and more so with the support and encouragement of our partners beyond our continent, that we face our challenges with growing resolve and celebrate this day as a milestone in this journey.
As it is the custom across the continent on this day, the department of Foreign Affairs and Arts, Culture, Science and Technology, will under the patronage of their respective ministers, host a celebratory reception at the Presidential Guest House for the African Representatives and other Dignitaries.
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
PRIVATE BAG X152
Pretoria
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