President Cyril Ramaphosa says the outbreak of the deadly coronavirus in Africa has exposed how far the continent still has to go before achieving its aspirations of a united and prosperous region.
Ramaphosa, speaking in his capacity as African Union chairperson, addressed Africa Day celebrations, held via virtual platforms across parts of the continent.
Ramaphosa, reflecting on the history of the AU, which was called the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) when it was established in 1963, said its mission was to restore the continent's fortunes and dignity to its people following the damage cause by colonial oppression.
Ramaphosa said the continent needed to push ahead with meeting the aspirations of Agenda 2063, including pan-African integration, the creation of the African continental free trade area, along with Africa’s vision for security, peace, stable democracies, human rights and women’s empowerment.
While once again using his role as AU chair to call for international solidarity, Ramaphosa thanked those, on both the continent and in the broader international community, who had sought to assist the continental body in navigating the global pandemic.
