The African Union Economic, Social, and Cultural Council (AU-ECOSOCC) is set to commemorate its 20th anniversary on the 4th of July, 2024. 

 The anniversary celebration aims to reflect on the organization’s journey of fostering Pan-African values and advancing socio-economic and cultural development across the continent.

 Also, it will serve as a platform to underscore the importance of partnership and dialogue in addressing Africa’s challenges.

 In his opening address at a media briefing on Tuesday in Accra, the Presiding Officer for ECOSOCC, Mr. Khalid Boudali, expressed gratitude for the collective efforts that have propelled the organization forward over the years.

 He stated, “Today marks a significant milestone in our collective journey, a journey that began two decades ago, with a vision to integrate the voices of civil society into the African Union’s decision-making processes, thereby fostering a continent driven by its own people.” Mr Boudali noted that over the past twenty years, ECOSOCC has played a central role in promoting dialogue, partnership, and collaboration among stakeholders across Africa. 

 He stated that ECOSOCC has worked to create a more inclusive, prosperous and united Africa, based on the belief that civil society was critical to the continent’s progress. “As we gather here today, let us reflect on the achievements we have collectively garnered. Our commitment has not only brought us closer to realizing the aspirations of Agenda 2063 but has also ensured that the African Union resonates more with the citizens it serves,” he added.

Mr Boudali emphasized the need for media cooperation in conveying positive messages about Africa’s transformational journey and encouraged the media to engage in discussions aimed at forging ahead with renewed vigor as well as commitment towards a brighter future for the continent.

He further urged the media to continue working together for the betterment of Africa and its people. “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to each one of you for being part of this journey, your participation today is a testament to the strong bonds of cooperation that we have built over the years,” he added.

He stated that as ECOSOCC launches its commemorative activities for AU-ECOSOCC@20, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the Pan-African agenda. According to him, with the insights and discussions generated at the event, ECOSOCC and its partners are poised to chart a course toward a future marked by unity, prosperity and progress.

On his part, the Head of ECOSOCC Secretariat, Mr. William Carew, cited ECOSOCC’s historical journey and detailed the commemorative activities planned for the 20th anniversary.

He disclosed that the 20th anniversary of ECOSOCC coincides with the roll-out of the Second Ten Years Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063. He stated, “Recalling the vision of the African Union that of: “An integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.”; this commemoration is timely to reinstate the African Citizenry at the centre of the continental development agenda.”

ECOSOCC was established in July 2004 as an advisory body comprised of various social and professional groups from AU Member States.

The mandate of ECOSOCC is to contribute, through advice, to the effective translation of the African Union’s objectives, principles, and policies into concrete programmes, as well as the evaluation of these programmes.

The media briefing was held as a hybrid event during the Accra Reflection Forum II on Unconstitutional Changes of Government.