“Given the diversity of our continent, achieving unity will require a strong political commitment. Africa’s liberation arose from a variety of circumstances, highlighting the distinct political systems, economic models, and cultural heritages found across the continent. The lack of a shared vision regarding the type of union—be it federal, confederal, or unitary—and its profound implications for sovereignty urges us to explore the establishment of a continental organization that honors this diversity while fostering a cohesive African Organization guided by a broadly accepted Charter.”-Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia

Addis Ababa meeting is a vital opportunity to promote political cohesion and tackle issues such as decolonization and integration. African unity is crucial for achieving independence and fostering sustainable development. Although unity cannot be achieved instantly, it is an attainable objective through purposeful actions that can commence right away-President Hubert Maga, Republic of Dahomey

“The Addis Ababa Meeting serves as a vital opportunity to delve into the underlying factors contributing to Africa’s challenges, including geographical constraints, the legacy of colonialism, and ongoing post-colonial issues. The dependence on external aid presents significant hurdles to progress. This Convention has the potential to lay the groundwork for African unity, which is the most effective solution to the challenges faced in the post-independence era. A shared understanding of the importance of African unity and a commitment to pursuing both political and economic avenues to achieve this goal will soon emerge, propelling the continent toward remarkable advancements.”-His Majesty the King of Burundi

“The Addis Ababa Meeting is a pivotal moment in Africa’s journey towards freedom and unity, integral to the goals of nationalist parties engaged in the struggle for liberation. This collective yearning has evolved into a pan-African endeavor that demands our attention. We must refrain from attributing our divisions to external forces and from lamenting our fragmentation while neglecting the restoration of unity after reclaiming our sovereignty. Unity is a destined outcome; however, rivalries among African leaders pose significant barriers to its realization. Fostering cooperation and effectively integrating African economies is essential for achieving future political unity.”-His Excellency Ahmadu Ahidjo
President of the Republic of Cameroon

“Our aim at the Addis Ababa Conference is to lay the groundwork for African Unity, reflecting the aspirations of the citizens of the Central African Republic. It is crucial that we leave Addis Ababa with concrete agreements rather than mere expressions of intent, and we seek binding commitments that affirm our dedication to their collective ideals.”-H. E. David Dacko President of Central African Republic

“African Unity embodies the aspirations of ordinary Africans across the continent, fostering connections across cultural and linguistic boundaries while collectively striving for complete decolonization and the equitable management of economic resources to pave the way for a promising future. The notion of Africa as a collection of independent sovereign nations lacks logic, as genuine strength is found in unity. It is imperative to thoughtfully deliberate on how African states should be organized moving forward, whether adopting a unitary, federal, or confederal framework, with a commitment to a careful and unhurried discussion. Economic integration serves as a vital cornerstone for any forthcoming political cohesion.”-H.E Tombalbaye
President of the Republic of Chad

“Let contemplate the African conscience, a shared benefit for all African peoples. Achieving the desired African unity would be relatively simple if our efforts were channeled toward this collective good, which could support key aspirations such as the total decolonization of the continent and the unified representation of African nations in the global arena to safeguard their common interests.”-H. E. F. Youlou.
President of Congo (Brazzaville)

“A genuine African Unity requires a flexible approach that respects the unique identities of each nation while promoting collaboration toward common objectives. The experience of Congo demonstrates that building mutual trust and respect between partners is essential for fostering unity. A responsive framework is crucial to accommodate the evolving needs of both nations and the continent, allowing us to pursue our primary aim of completing the decolonization process, which is indispensable for achieving true unity.”-H.E. Joseph Kasavubu
President of the Republic of Congo

. A gradual approach is essential for realizing unityThe collective aspiration for unity must evolve over time, necessitating a transition period. During this phase, established relationships may remain intact, and regional organizations will continue to meet needs that cannot yet be fulfilled through alternative means. This incremental advancement will foster reconciliation of differences and promote mutual acceptance, recognizing cooperation and economic integration as crucial elements in achieving genuine unity.”-H.E. Leon Mba
President of the Republic of Gabon

We are gathered in Addis Ababa to realize the aspirations of the peoples of Africa by establishing a Union government, as any other option would lead to futility. Achieving progress requires the united action of a cohesive Africa under a robust Union government, which stands as the most powerful political tool we can develop to promote sustainable and swift social and economic development across our continent. The time to unite is now. Our shared resolve must drive us toward the vision of a Union of Independent African States. We must stand firm in our commitment to remain in Addis Ababa until we lay down the essential principles for a new continental government, as any delay threatens not only our well-being but the very existence of Africa as a free continent.Unite, we must”-H.E. Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah
President of the Republic of Ghana

“Let us wholeheartedly embrace the Addis Ababa Convention to realize the hopes and aspirations of the African peoples for continental unity. It is imperative that we take decisive actions on behalf of all Africans to foster unity and lay the groundwork for the institutions of a United Africa, thereby heralding a new era of collaboration across the continent. Sacrifices are essential to ensure the success of the Addis Ababa Conference, so that it is etched in the memories of both present and future generations as the defining moment for the emergence of a new Africa—an Africa that stands united and is fully empowered to shape its own destiny. This new United Africa will play a vital role in accelerating the economic, social, and cultural development of the continent for the prosperity of our peoples.”-H.E Sekou Toure
President of the Republic of Guinea

“As we consider the path our newfound freedom should take, it is essential to recognize the strong yearning for African unity without hastening toward this objective, as genuine independence requires a focus on fostering cooperation and integration to attain the continent’s complete liberation. Although numerous challenges exist in the pursuit of political unity, the journey can be both demanding and invigorating. Enhancing collaboration among African economies is crucial for achieving this political unity, which is why attendees at this conference should emphasize economic coordination as the most effective approach to realizing that unity.”-President Felix Houphouet Boigny
Ivory Coast

“Let us prioritize the common good over individual or national interests, with the hope that the Conference will be steered by shared goals, encouraging objective discussions for the benefit of Africa as a whole. In attending the Addis Ababa Convention with an open mind, I align myself with the gradual approach to unity advocated by the Emperor of Ethiopia, who emphasized the importance of African Unity and proposed practical steps for its successful achievement.”-H. E. Wm. V. S. Tubman
President of the Republic of Liberia

“Let us unite to address the continent’s foremost challenge of the 1960s, the complete decolonization. The Addis Ababa Conference should aim to realize this noble goal by highlighting the most effective route to success, which lies in the cooperation and collective efforts of all participating nations. Libya is steadfast in its commitment to making substantial contributions toward this endeavor, tirelessly working to enhance cooperation and understanding among all African nations, ensuring that the African ship navigates safely to its destination. It is with great pride that Libya participates in this significant gathering for this esteemed purpose.”-E.R .H Hasan Rida, Crown Prince Representing H.M. King Idris
Kingdom of Libya

“Our peoples expect us to create an agreement that satisfies their desire for unity while reflecting the diverse aspirations of African communities. The lasting impact of colonialism has fragmented Africa and imposed borders that disrupt cultural connections. Dismantling this colonial legacy is a complex and lengthy process that requires a deep understanding of its intricacies. Achieving the unity that all Africans seek is a long-term journey that demands consistent effort, collaboration, and a commitment to strengthening our shared history for a peaceful future. The unity ardently wished for by all Africans must be viewed as a long-term project which must be dealt gradually overtime”-H. E. Modibo Keila
The President of the Government of Mali

“Political unity is vital for all Africans, yet various economic and political landscapes pose significant challenges. While immediate unity would be ideal, the journey toward achieving it is complex. Therefore, a gradual approach to political union appears to be the most prudent path. We must leverage this gathering as a crucial opportunity to establish the fundamental groundwork for African unity. By laying these essential foundations, we can ensure that the progression toward unity becomes irreversible. It is imperative to recognize the importance of this conference in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the African people, as failing to meet these expectations would constitute a profound injustice.”-Maître Moktar Ould Daddah
President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania

“Creating a Union government of African States faces significant challenges, primarily due to the rivalries among African leaders that impede progress. Overcoming these rivalries is essential to bridging divisions and achieving the vision of a united Africa, even if the urgency of this goal is subject to debate. The shared aspiration for unity serves as a vital bond across the continent, inspiring leaders to collaborate in identifying and addressing these obstacles. The Addis Ababa Conference exemplifies a commitment to fostering constructive dialogue among these leaders.”-H.E. Mr. Ph. Tsiranana
President of the Malagasy Republic

The idea of African unity, although desired by all Africans, was “ untimely in light of difficulties to overcome.This Conference must bear witness to the deep desire of all the people we represent; they hope that with this Meeting African Unity may become a reality,” he said. “Hope and reality, two contrary terms, between which our action as Heads of States and Government must be situated. Let adopt an African Charter that strengthens cooperation among African States within the framework of strict respect for the principles of sovereignty of each State. This will constitute a vehicle for facilitating trade and coordinating development plans at the continental levels,which inn its turn will set solid foundations for unity in the future.-H.E. Diori Hamani
President of the Republic of Niger

“Forming an immediate union government for independent African States will amount to undo the legacy of colonialism, which might exacerbate the existing economic and social challenges faced by the continent. The historical division of Africa by colonial powers resulted in the fragmentation of African states into numerous factions which we can not undo immediately as being beyond our influence. Overlooking this reality could lead to substantial hardships for the region. We all want unity but for the time being let uphold the current situation by respecting the colonial borders that were inherited as most attendees at the conference leaned towards a more gradual approach rather than an immediate political union.”

-H.E. Alkaji Sir A. Balewa
Prime Minister of the Federation of Nigeria
“

The Addis Ababa Conference will showcase the ability of sovereign African nations to transcend the historical divisions created by the Berlin Conference, which fragmented the continent under colonial rule. It is essential to achieve meaningful outcomes and to persist in our pursuit of African Unity, as this will yield considerable benefits for both the continent and its people.”-H.E. Habemenshi
The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Rwanda

“The foundation of African Unity is grounded in our shared cultural bond of Africanness, embodying the very essence of our civilization. The core aim of African Unity is to promote economic advancement that honors the dignity of every African individual. Together, let us redefine the Addis Ababa Convention as a unifying platform that bridges diverse communities through mutual understanding, ensuring that our path to unity unfolds gradually to address any challenges that may arise from the swift establishment of a federation or confederation complete with its own governance and military framework.”-Leopold Sedar Senghor
President of the Republic, of SENEGAL

“The pursuit of African Unity reflects the deep aspirations of the people of Sierra Leone, reminding us that the distinctions among our nations are merely temporary. As we recognize this crucial moment for the unification of African states, let us depart from the Conference with a reinvigorated commitment to collaborate in advancing the continent’s economic, social, educational, scientific, and cultural development, marking a significant achievement for this gathering.”-H. E. Sir Milton Margai
Prime Minister of Sierra Leone

“The enduring effects of colonialism fuel ongoing conflicts and divisions in the post-independence era. The arbitrary borders drawn during colonial times have fragmented historically connected communities for selfish gains. While some argue that altering these borders could worsen the situation, this view only validates existing injustices. Immediate African Unity remains a challenge, as many are hesitant to relinquish their hard-won sovereignty. Therefore, we must concentrate on strengthening informal cooperative frameworks and enhancing collaboration to tackle shared challenges, gradually restoring connections.”-H.E. Aden Abdalla Osman
President of the Somali Republic

“At Addis Ababa, our peoples are keenly observing the establishment of a vital foundation for unity and our collective aspirations. We yearn for a trustworthy environment that can transform a long-held dream into reality. Unity is not just essential for Africa; it is crucial for addressing our shared challenges, which we recognize arise from a common source and can be effectively resolved through a united approach. This commitment to unity not only represents our most powerful strategy but also conveys a message that is distinctly different from other calls for unity.”-H.E. Faruk I. Abboud. President of the Supreme Council
Prime Minster of the Republic of Sudan

“The true purpose of the Addis Ababa Convention lies not in questioning our commitment to African unity but in revealing the common ground we share in this vital pursuit. As I speak, I can confidently affirm that we have discovered this shared foundation in our quest for Africa’s ultimate liberation. In our journey towards unity, we have collectively embraced the vision of a fully united Africa. However, we all recognize that, akin to the path toward African independence, our endeavor for African unity will be a continuously evolving process.”-H.E. Malibu Julius K. Nyerere
President of the Republic of Tanganyika

“The foremost challenges facing the continent are full decolonization and the eradication of colonial legacies in Africa. The Addis Ababa Meeting is poised to serve as a critical milestone in tackling these interconnected revolutions, underscoring the resistance against foreign domination while promoting a renewed African identity. This initiative aspires to shift perspectives and develop political, economic, and social frameworks that enhance the overall quality of life throughout the continent. Realizing these ambitious goals requires a collective effort from all corners of Africa, and the Conference will advocate for the creation of a committee of experts dedicated to assessing the feasibility of a more integrated economic and political union among African Independent States, with their recommendations to be presented to the Heads of States within a six-month period.”-H.E. Milton Obote
Prime Minister of Uganda

“The people of Upper Volta urge me to advocate for the adoption of a Charter of African Unity, emphasizing its vital role in preventing any form of misunderstanding. African Unity stands as a transformative force, representing a new ethical paradigm that fosters authentic human connections. The time has come for Heads of State to engage in sincere dialogue, focusing on shared values and bridging divides to unlock our collective potential. It is crucial that the frameworks of the future Union remain flexible to guarantee resilience. Unity signifies strength, an unwavering truth, and achieving it requires a dedicated commitment to our shared identity. In the face of numerous challenges, African Unity remains our only sanctuary.”-H.E. Maurice Yameogo
President of the Republic of Upper Volta