Ghanaian government has urged fellow African countries to work hard to sustain the path of democracy, unity and progress on the continent.

Minister for Defense, Mark Owen Woyongo made this call at a brief, but colorful flag-raising ceremony to mark the 50th anniversary of the "African Union" or "Organization of African Unity" (AU/OAU) here on Saturday.

"Though democracy and rule of law are steadily taking root throughout Africa, the process remains fragile and the threat of relapse into dictatorship and instability are real and ever- present," said the defense minister, who on behalf of government addressed the diplomatic community, traditional rulers, academia, politicians and dignitaries present at the ceremony.

He called on member-states of the AU to seize the moment to take inspiration from the wisdom and heroic deeds of their forebears who marched together as a people with one destiny under the banner of Pan-Africanism.

Woyongo also reiterated the call for the continent's leaders to prepare the youth by training them, equipping them, as well as inspiring them by exemplary leadership to carry on with the noble work of the African Renaissance.

He reminded Africans that even in the darkest moments of oppression and dehumanization, the eternal flame of Pan-Africanism never ceased burning in the hearts of ordinary men and women throughout the continent and beyond.

"This priceless heritage must be the source of, not only our joy and pride but also our inspiration and hope, in celebrating the Golden Jubilee of the long march of the peoples of Africa to enduring unity, peace and prosperity," Woyongo stressed.

In her solidarity message, High Commissioner of Canada to Ghana, Trudy Kernighan also called on member-states of AU to manage the exploitation of their mineral and natural resources judiciously to make a meaningful impact on the lives of their people.

"While newly found natural resources can provide opportunities for economic growth and development, it is imperative that states manage their exploitation judiciously, safely and with respect for the environment," Kernighan urged.

Dean of the European Diplomatic Corps, Vladmir Barbin said that the birth of the AU in 1963 opened a new page in the development of the present world order and helped throw off colonialism.

"It became a striking example of the triumph of the ideas of progress, equality and democracy on planet earth. The African Union today is one of the world's most important and influential intergovernmental organizations," Barbin who is also the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Ghana stated.

Besides, the representative of the All African Students Union also pledged on behalf of the youth to renew and commit their intellect and capacity towards the attainment of the AU Vision 2063. Endi

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)