UN Secretary-General António Guterres Inaugurates Historic Africa Hall in Ethiopia: A Reflection on Africa’s Past, Present, and Future
After years of meticulous renovation, Africa Hall, the iconic birthplace of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), has been officially inaugurated in Addis Ababa.
The historic event was graced by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and other dignitaries.
The renovation of this important symbol marks a new chapter in Africa’s journey, honoring its past struggles for independence and celebrating its continued quest for unity, development, and a sustainable future.
Originally commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie I in 1961, Africa Hall is a modernist architectural masterpiece designed by Arturo Mezzedimi.
It was conceived as a space for African leaders to come together and deliberate on the most pressing issues of the time—independence, freedom, and Africa’s role on the global stage.
This landmark building became the headquarters of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and hosted the signing of the Charter for the Organization of African Unity in 1963.
The OAU later evolved into the African Union (AU), continuing its mission to foster African unity and cooperation.
The signing of the OAU Charter at Africa Hall is seen as one of the most significant moments in Africa’s post-colonial history, symbolizing the continent’s resolve to chart its own future, free from the legacy of colonialism.
While Africa Hall has been central to many of Africa’s milestones, its structure had been deteriorating over the years.
Various attempts were made to renovate it, but it wasn’t until the 50th anniversary of the ECA that the initiative gained real momentum.
A collaboration between UNESCO, the African Union Commission, and the Government of Ethiopia helped launch a project to restore the building as a “monument to African history.”
This ambitious restoration project was further supported by member states, including contributions from countries like Mali and Portugal.
By 2014, ECA had completed a feasibility study and conceptual design for the restoration. The UN General Assembly approved the renovation project during its 70th session, officially entrusting ECA with its implementation.
Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, work on Africa Hall pressed on, transforming it into a modernized facility while preserving its original artistic and architectural vision.
The renovated hall now features a new visitors’ center and a permanent exhibition, which highlights the history and legacy of the hall and its role in shaping Africa’s political landscape.
One of the centerpieces of the renovation is the restoration of the famed stained-glass mural by renowned Ethiopian artist Afewerk Tekle, titled The Total Liberation of Africa.
This 150-square-meter mural, commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie in 1961, greets visitors at the entrance of Africa Hall.
It captures the struggles, hopes, and dreams of the African continent, portraying a vivid narrative of Africa’s journey toward self-determination. Tekle’s work is hailed as an extraordinary reflection on the soul of the continent and remains one of the hall’s most celebrated features.
Africa Hall is more than just a building; it is a monument to Africa’s political evolution, housing other important artistic works donated by member states.
The hall is a cultural and political symbol, representing decades of African resilience, dialogue, and progress. Now, with its newly renovated facilities, it also holds great potential as a site for tourism and heritage preservation in Ethiopia.
During the inauguration, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the hall’s importance not only as a historical symbol but as a space for future dialogue and cooperation.
“Africa Hall embodies the dreams and aspirations of the continent,” Guterres remarked, noting that the restoration of the hall signifies a renewed commitment to unity, peace, and sustainable development in Africa.
The reopening of Africa Hall comes at a pivotal moment, as Africa faces new challenges and opportunities.
As a space for discussion, diplomacy, and decision-making, it is once again poised to play a central role in addressing issues such as sustainable development, climate change, and the continent’s place in the global economy.
The inauguration of Africa Hall is a reminder of Africa’s enduring legacy of unity and its commitment to a brighter future for generations to come.
