CalEvents:May/May 25
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for May 25
Date
Event
Significance
May 25, 1963
Formation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU)
On this day, the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) was officially formed in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This event marked a critical moment in Pan-African history, as the OAU aimed to promote unity, solidarity, and cooperation among African nations, as well as support liberation movements against colonialism and apartheid.
May 25, 1951
Ralph Bunche becomes first African-American awarded Nobel Peace Prize
On this day, Ralph Bunche was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his mediation in Palestine, becoming the first African-American to receive this honor. Bunche was a diplomat and scholar who worked extensively with the United Nations on decolonization and conflict resolution in Africa and the Middle East.
May 25, 1972
Sierra Leone becomes a republic
On this day, Sierra Leone declared itself a republic, replacing the British monarchy with a republican form of government. Siaka Stevens became the first president of the newly established republic, signaling a new era in the nation’s post-independence political development.
May 25, 1980
Zimbabwe officially joins the United Nations
On this day, Zimbabwe was admitted as a member of the United Nations following its independence from British rule earlier that year. The country’s admission marked the end of white-minority rule and the beginning of majority Black leadership under Robert Mugabe.
May 25, 1993
Eritrea admitted to the United Nations
On this day, Eritrea was admitted to the United Nations as a sovereign nation following its successful war of independence from Ethiopia. This was a momentous event for Eritrea, marking its recognition on the international stage as an independent African state.
May 25, 2001
First celebration of Africa Day
On this day, Africa Day was officially celebrated for the first time, marking the anniversary of the founding of the OAU. Africa Day is a celebration of African unity, cultural diversity, and progress in the fight for independence, and it remains a significant event across the African continent and the diaspora.
May 25, 2011
Egypt hosts the African Union Summit
On this day, Egypt hosted the African Union Summit, which brought together African leaders to discuss peace, security, and economic development on the continent. The summit was particularly focused on the political unrest following the Arab Spring, including the upheaval in Libya and Tunisia.