African Union Chairperson Pays Homage to Bob Marley

African Union Chairperson, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, while on a short official visit to Jamaica, took time out to visit the Bob Marley Museum, home of Reggae's King.

Dr Zuma toured the museum with her delegation, comprising Ms Mathu Joyini (South African high commissioner), Dr Potgieter (adviser), Ms Siphokazi Hermans (third secretary, Political South African High Commission) and security personnel. "Absolutely impressive, inspiring and informative," was how they described their visit.

Ms Rosemary Duncan, manager of the Rita Marley Foundation (JA), presented gifts and greetings on behalf of President and Founder Mrs Rita Marley. The Rita Marley Foundation champions humanitarian and philanthropic projects in Ghana, West Africa.

Dr Zuma is the first female chairperson of the African Union. The organisation's vision is for "an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena".

The African Union seeks to promote sustainable development at economic, social and cultural levels as well as the integration of African economies. Its main objectives are to rid the African continent of the remaining vestiges of colonisation and apartheid; to promote unity and solidarity among African states; to coordinate and intensify cooperation for development; to safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states and to promote international cooperation within the framework of the United Nations.

On April 9, Dr Zuma delivered the keynote address during the Lucille Mathurin Mair Public Lecture at the University of the West Indies, Mona, to commence celebrations for the 80th earth-day of H.E. Percival James Patterson, former prime minister of Jamaica (1992-2006), and serving council member of the newly established African Union Foundation.