Each year on 25 May, Africa Day is commemorated across the continent and in the diaspora, marking the founding of the Organization of African Unity in 1963, now succeeded by the African Union.
The day serves as a moment to reflect on Africa’s journey towards unity, self-determination and sustainable development, as envisioned by the continent’s founding leaders.
The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights was established through the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, as part of the broader African human rights system developed under the framework of the African Union.
The Court plays a central role in protecting human and peoples’ rights across the continent, contributing to the realization of the values that inspired the founding of the Organization of African Unity.
As we commemorate Africa Day, we are reminded of the enduring vision articulated at the first Summit of the Organization of African Unity on 25 May 1963.
The speeches and statements delivered on that occasion continue to offer powerful insight into the aspirations that shaped Africa’s institutional and political landscape.
We invite you to access the full compilation of these historic speeches and statements here:
Africa Day 1963 Speeches and Statements
