The Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in Washington DC Wishes the African Diaspora in the United States of America a Very Happy Africa Day!
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The Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in Washington DC wishes the African Diaspora in the United States of America a very Happy Africa Day! Africa Month is celebrated annually during the month of May in recognition of the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May 1963 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The OAU was founded with the primary goal of uniting African nations through political, economic and cultural integration, as well as the eradication of all forms of colonialism and white minority rule. In 2002, the OAU was replaced by the African Union (AU). Through this historic move, the founding principles of unity were expounded upon towards the idea of an African Renaissance and to include: the deepening of African unity and solidarity amongst states, acceleration of political and economic integration, preservation of sovereignty and the territorial integrity of states, protection of human rights, promotion of democratic principles, maintenance of peace & security and critically, the advancement of Africa’s development and position within the global economy. This year, South Africa celebrates 25 years of Freedom and Democracy; accordingly, South Africa has chosen to commemorate Africa month 2019 under the theme “Celebrating 25 Years of Democracy: Building a Better Africa and a Better World”. This theme speaks to the active role that South Africa plays in the development and renewal of the African continent and avails an opportunity for the country to recommit itself to a common prosperous African destiny, as espoused by the 2063 African Agenda. South Africa’s own national interests are intrinsically linked to the continental stability, unity and prosperity of Africa. As we celebrate Africa Day this year, let us be reminded of our common African identity, promote the preservation and use of our indigenous languages, deepen and expand our understanding of each other as Africans and express tolerance amongst ourselves. .