About Africa Day

About Africa Day

Africa Day is celebrated on 25 May, in honor of the foundation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May 1963, which later evolved into the African Union (AU). The commemoration of Africa Day in 2022 comes at a time when the world is facing challenges posed by COVID-19 and the impact of the war in Ukraine.

The UN system plays a crucial role in coordinating assistance of all kinds — to help Africa help itself. From promoting the development of democratic institutions, to establishing peace between warring nations, the UN is present on the ground supporting economic and social development and the promotion and protection of human rights.

In this effort, the UN works closely with Africa’s regional cooperation mechanism.

To advance its support for Africa even further, the United Nations Office of the Special Adviser on Africa was established in 2003 to enhance international support for African development and security and to improve coordination of UN system support. It also works to facilitate global deliberations on Africa, particularly with respect to the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) — a strategic framework adopted by African leaders in 2001. In 2019, NEPAD's mandate was reformed. It is now serving as the first development agency of the African Union.

Theme:

The AU declared 2022, The Year of Nutrition under the theme: "Strengthening Resilience in Nutrition and Food Security on the African Continent: Strengthening Agro-Food Systems, Health and Social Protection Systems for the Acceleration of Human, Social and Economic Capital Development"

In a 2021 report, entitled "Africa, Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition," published by the African Union Commission, FAO and the UN Economic Commission for Africa, calls for all of the continent's countries to transform the food industry. Countries will need to invest in agriculture and related sectors, as well as in water, health, and in education services to reduce vulnerabilities and build capacities to withstand shocks.

In 2020, 281.6 million of Africans suffered from hunger. According to the report, the numbers vary across the subregions; the number of undernourished people reaches about 44% in Eastern Africa, 27% in Western Africa, 20% in Central Africa, 6,2% in Northern Africa and 2,4% in Southern Africa.

Join the social media campaign: show your pride, take a selfie showing your love for the continent and invite a friend or two to do the same.  Follow or tag our social media platforms on twitter, Instagram and Facebook: @UnitedNationsTz.

The hashtag for the day is AfricaDay#2022

UN wishes you all a Happy Africa Day!