Politics in the Organization of African Unity

The book "The Organization of African Unity (OAU): Aims and Structure" was published in 1976 and provides an account of the aims and structure of the OAU, its growth from 1963 to the mid-1970s, and its response to crises in Africa. It is the only continent-wide organization in Africa financed and staffed by Africans and serves as a representative voice of Africa free of its ties with former colonial powers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 238 pages
Publication date: 20 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1976, this comprehensive book offers a detailed account of the objectives and framework of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and its remarkable journey from its establishment in Addis Ababa in 1963 to the mid-1970s. It delves into the core aspects of the organization, including its Charter, the functioning of the general secretariat and specialized commissions, the OAU's response to crises in Africa, and the pivotal role played by the Liberation Committee in the significant transformations that occurred in southern African politics. This seminal work serves as a valuable resource for understanding the historical context, structure, and achievements of the OAU, which was the first continent-wide organization in Africa to be financed and staffed entirely by Africans. It represents a significant milestone in African self-determination and serves as a powerful voice for the continent, free from the influence of former colonial powers.

The book begins by providing an overview of the OAU's founding principles and objectives, which were to promote unity, cooperation, and development among African nations. It highlights the importance of African self-determination and the need to address the challenges facing the continent, such as poverty, political instability, and colonialism. The Charter of the OAU, which was adopted in 1963, serves as the guiding document for the organization's activities and sets forth the principles and objectives that govern its operations.

The next chapter delves into the structure and functioning of the OAU. It explains how the organization is governed by its Assembly, Council, and Secretariat, as well as the role of specialized commissions such as the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the Social Council. The book provides a detailed account of the work of these commissions, including their achievements, challenges, and recommendations for future action.

One of the key aspects of the OAU's work was its response to crises in Africa. The organization played a crucial role in resolving conflicts, promoting peace, and providing humanitarian assistance to affected regions. The book discusses several notable crises that the OAU faced during its existence, such as the civil wars in Angola, Mozambique, and Sierra Leone, as well as the conflicts in the Great Lakes region and the Sahel. The OAU's response to these crises was characterized by its commitment to promoting dialogue, mediation, and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Another important chapter in the book explores the role of the Liberation Committee in the radical changes that took place in southern African politics during the 1970s. The Liberation Committee was a group of African leaders who were committed to promoting independence, democracy, and social justice in the region. The committee played a significant role in the liberation of southern African countries from colonial rule, including Angola, Mozambique, and Namibia. The book discusses the strategies and tactics used by the Liberation Committee, as well as the impact of their efforts on the political landscape of the region.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful account of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and its growth from its foundation in 1963 to the mid-1970s. It offers a detailed examination of the organization's aims, structure, and achievements, as well as its response to crises in Africa and the role of the Liberation Committee in the radical changes that took place in southern African politics. The book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and policymakers interested in understanding the history and development of Africa and the role of international organizations in shaping its future.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032617879