Abstract
In reflecting on the economic and sociopolitical issues confronting Africa over the past five decades, it is apparent the Organization of African Unity (OAU) now African Union (AU) has played a significant role in addressing these concerns. Following the end of the Second World War and the creation of the United Nations Organization, many African nations began to revolt against (colonial) European government, demanding independence. The concept of creating a cohesive body that would integrate the continent despite differences in colonial rule emerged. Consequently, the creation of the OAU started in the late 1950s and early 1960s. This study examines the relative effectiveness and weaknesses of the OAU since its inception, and its transformation to AU in 2002.
Unite we must. Without necessarily sacrificing our sovereignties, big or small, we can here and now forge a political union based on Defense, Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy, and a Common citizenship, an African Currency, an African Monetary Zone and an African Central Bank. We must unite in order to achieve the full liberation of our continent. We need a Common Defense System with an African High Command to ensure the stability and security of Africa.
—Kwame Nkrumah1
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Notes
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© 2009 Olayiwola Abegunrin
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Abegunrin, O. (2009). From Organization of African Unity to African Union. In: Africa in Global Politics in the Twenty-First Century. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230623903_8
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