Staff of the African Union Commission Celebrating the 50th Anniversary

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 14 September, 2013- The staff members of the African Union Commission (AUC) came together today to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of the OAU/AU.

AUC Chairperson Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma attended the celebrations along with the Commissioner for Social Affairs Dr Moustapha Kaloko who headed the organizing committee. The enthusiasm of the day was reflected throughout the day as staff members brought out colorful national outfits and engaged in celebratory festivities.

All five (5) regions of Africa were represented at the Carnival with most staff of the AUC and their families being present to enjoy the festivities. Food, drinks and music from the various regions of Africa were aptly represented in their various stands and all that were present were free to enjoy them.

H.E Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma visited all the regional stands, complimenting their hard work and showing her appreciation by tasting their cultural foods and taking pictures with the organizing staff. The Chairperson was later interviewed by the Directorate of Information and Communication expressing her joy on the success of the occasion and her satisfaction on a job well done by all the various regions.

The day was honored by activities of various kinds involving sports, a carnival and a fashion show for all staff to enjoy. Long serving members of staff were recognized at an awards ceremony held as part of the day’s celebrations.

The AUC intranet system, AUC Open Space was also launched today with a promotional video showing its various features and benefits.

The official 50th Golden Jubilee which marked the May 25 1963 formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) now the African Union (AU) was commemorated with the leaders of the continent earlier this year in May. However today was an internal celebration for the staff members of the AU Commission.