Washington, D.C. – May 30, 2014: Amid an atmosphere of pomp and pageantry, the 51st anniversary of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), renamed the African Union (AU), was held on May 27, 2014 in Washington, D.C., USA.
The impressive event was attended by hundreds of guests, including members of the diplomatic community in the Nation’s Capital, officials of the State Department and other US government agencies, as well as leaders of the private sector and the African communities in the Diaspora. The Embassy of Liberia near Washington, D.C. joined the embassies of the other African countries in organizing the gala, which started with the rendition of the national anthem of the United States and the AU, followed by a parade of flags of the various African countries and the AU.The National Flag of the Republic of Liberia was carried by the Embassy’s 2nd Secretary and Vice Consul, Ms. Catherine Nmah, while Deputy Chief of Mission Jeff G. Dowana marched alongside her, to a melodious sound. Several members of the Embassy staff, as well as the leader of the Liberian community in the Washington Metro Area, Ms. Nee Allison, also attended the gala. Highlights of the event, held under the theme, “Agriculture and Food Security,” included remarks by Hon. Vincent Gray, Mayor of Washington, D.C.; and Assistant United States Secretary of State for African Affairs, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who last served as U.S. Ambassador to Liberia. The two American officials underscored the importance of U.S.-African relationships, and the need to continue to enhance the relationships.
Below, please see a few photos from the event. Click here to listen to the Liberian National Anthem ====>
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