By Baboloki Semele: After years of meticulous restoration, Africa Hall, the birthplace of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), stands ready to open its doors once more. This architectural gem, commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie I and designed by Italian architect Arturo Mezzèdimi, has long been a symbol of African unity, independence, and progress. As the headquarters of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the site where the OAU was founded in 1963, it has witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in Africa’s post-colonial history.
According to a press release from the Economic Commission for Africa, renovation efforts for this iconic hall began in earnest as the ECA marked its 50th anniversary. The ambitious project was undertaken in collaboration with UNESCO, the African Union Commission, and the Ethiopian government, with the vision of transforming Africa Hall into a “monument to African history” while preserving its cultural and historical integrity. The renovation, which continued through the COVID-19 pandemic, has resulted in a state-of-the-art facility with a new visitor center and permanent exhibitions, all while honoring its original 1960s architectural style.
Among its treasures is the restored masterpiece by Ethiopian artist Afework Tekle, a 150-square-meter stained-glass mural titled The Total Liberation of Africa. This vibrant mural, commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie I, captures Africa’s struggles, hopes, and aspirations, making it a profound symbol of the continent’s journey toward freedom and unity.
Contributions from countries like Mali and Portugal have enriched the renovation, ensuring that Africa Hall remains not only a modern conferencing venue but also a symbol of Africa’s resilience and future potential. The hall is poised to become a cultural landmark, with the potential to boost tourism in Ethiopia, while remaining a vital hub for the continent’s diplomatic and development efforts.
As Africa Hall reopens, it stands as a powerful reminder of the continent’s rich history and enduring vision for a sustainable future. From its role in shaping the OAU, the precursor to the African Union, to its present-day transformation, Africa Hall is more than a building—it is a testament to Africa’s past, present, and future.
About the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa
Established by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations (UN) in 1958 as one of the UN’s five regional commissions, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa’s (ECA’s) mandate is to promote the economic and social development of its Member States, foster intraregional integration and promote international cooperation for Africa’s development. ECA is made up of 54 Member States and plays a dual role as a regional arm of the UN and as a key component of the African institutional landscape.