He made us proud

I HAVE learnt with sadness of the death of Kofi Annan, former secretary-general of the UN.

I offer the AU’s condolences and my own to Mr Annan’s family, the people and the government of Ghana and to his colleagues in the UN system.

During his time as secretary-general and thereafter, within the framework of his Foundation and the Elders, Kofi Annan made a tremendous contribution to the quest for durable peace and sustainable development in the world.

He pioneered some of the most ground breaking UN policies, including on the Millennium Development Goals and the Responsibility to Protect. He advocated tirelessly for the values of peace, human rights, tolerance and solidarity among all nations and peoples.

Kofi Annan actively promoted the partnership between the AU and the UN. He spearheaded, with then AU Commission chairperson Alpha Oumar Konare, the Ten-Year Capacity Building Programme for the AU, the establishment of the Hybrid Operation in Darfur – a unique model of co-operation in peacekeeping between the AU and the UN, and a number of other key initiatives.

I pay tribute to Kofi Annan for his immense contribution to the advancement of peace and development. His dedication to humanity, diplomacy and humility will forever be a shining example of what leadership should be.

As the continent pursues ever resolutely its goal of achieving “The Africa We Want”, Kofi Annan will remain a source of inspiration and encouragement. Through his numerous accomplishments, he has made Africa proud. May his soul rest in peace.!