The event held at Teachers Hall in Brikama, in the West Coast Region, brought together members of the United Democratic Party as well as the NAM of Kombo South and the deputy secretary of Foreign Affairs in Diaspora (UDP).
The day is commemorated annually on the 25th of May in honor of the nationalist elites, who gathered in Addis Ababa in 1963 to sign the Charted that established Organization of African Unity (OAU). In a nutshell, it is an annual celebration of African independence and sovereign rule. However, the theme for this year’s event was ‘Borderless Africa.’
Addressing the gathering, Lamin Manneh, deputy secretary Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora dwelled on the theme of the year’s celebration, pointing out the need for the removal of borders within Africa to achieve Unity and Solidarity and free movement of Africans.
The day, he went on, is also set aside to reflect on the unity, progress and challenges of the African continent
Abubacarr Darboe, the regional Youth Coordinator of the United Democratic Party in the West Coast Region, underscored the need for collective action to address Africa’s pressing challenges.
He argued that the dream of Pan Africanism will remain half –fulfilled, as the chain may look different, but the bondage remains.
Hagi Suwareh, National Youth president of the United Democratic Party, highlighted the significance of the day, reminding that the day is commemorated in the continent to celebrate independence by reigniting the flame of unity, self-esteem and true African leadership.
"We don’t just celebrate as patriots, I stand with the spirit of Africa’s youth and visionary leaders, who dare to break free from economic dependent chains and restore hope and dignity to our people."
Lamin Manneh, secretary general of United Democratic Party Student Wing dives in to the impact of colonialism it brought to Africa.
He made reference to economic exploitation, adding that colonial masters built their homes through the resources they’ve collected from Africa.
Thus, he acknowledged the significance and the legacy these patriots’ left legacy behind, saying these leaders some of whom died almost two decades ago, are still celebrated all over the globe.
