Africa Marks 62nd Africa Day Celebrating Continental Unity, Cultural Diversity

Africa Day, celebrated annually on May 25, commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, which later evolved into the African Union (AU), symbolizing the continent's unity and shared commitment to progress. The origins of Africa Day trace back to liberation movements and Pan-African congresses starting in 1900, with African leaders uniting to end colonial rule and promote political freedom, culminating in the OAU's creation as a milestone of continental solidarity. Today, the celebration highlights Africa's economic growth, significant advances in women's political participation and gender equality, and cultural diversity, as seen in festivities featuring traditional dress, food, and performances. Events such as the 2025 Africa Memorial Day in Lagos emphasize reflection on the legacies of slavery and colonialism while advocating for historical consciousness and justice. The ongoing observance underscores both pride in African identity and a collective pursuit of social, economic, and cultural development across the continent and its diaspora.