International experts and African leaders have welcomed the African Union’s decision to honor Tanzania’s Founding President, Julius Nyerere, by erecting his statue at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The unveiling of Nyerere’s statue at the 37th AU Summit last Sunday is a testament to his relentless dedication to Africa’s freedom and solidarity.
The ceremony, attended by AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki, Tanzanian President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Zambia’s President Hikainde Hichilema, recognized Nyerere’s pivotal role in the formation of the AU and his unwavering stance against imperialism in Africa.
Nyerere’s leadership in the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963 and his enduring commitment to continental unity were highlighted during the ceremony. His influential 1970 speech in the Tanzanian parliament emphasized the need for African unity to combat colonialism in Southern African countries.
Under his leadership, Tanzania provided refuge for liberation movements across the continent and played a key role in dismantling the apartheid system in South Africa. Additionally, Tanzania’s collaborative infrastructure projects with Egypt aim at addressing transportation challenges and stimulating economic progress in the region.
The partnership between Tanzania and Egypt in infrastructure development, particularly in the transport sector, will foster economic growth and enhance trade connectivity in the region.
Egyptian Minister for Transport, Kamel El Wazir, emphasized the commitment to strengthen relations with African countries and improve transport networks to promote intra-African trade.
The strategic meeting in the city brought together officials from key organizations in Tanzania, showcasing the readiness to enhance cooperation in the transport sector and extend investments in Africa.
The unveiling of Julius Nyerere’s statue at the AU headquarters serves as a symbol of African pride, unity, and the enduring legacy of a remarkable leader.
Julius Nyerere: A Champion of African Unity

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