Celebrating 70 years of the United Nations in Ethiopia

The UN 70th year was marked on Saturday 24th of October 2015 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia at the ECA compound in the presence by His Excellency Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassi, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, representatives of UN member states and UN staff and other government and diplomatic community dignitaries.

The event featured a keynote address from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon delivered by Mr. George Okutho, UN Resident Coordinator (a.i) and Director of ILO Country Office for Ethiopia and Somalia.

“The United Nations works for the entire human family of seven billion people, and cares for the earth, our one and only home”, said Mr. Okutho. He added that the “ Strong UN. Better World’ theme highlights the leadership of this global body in coordinating the nations across the globe for a viable partnership to make the world a better place for all humanity.’ He also noted that “ the UN’s profound contribution to achievement of the Millennium Development Goals in Ethiopia,” is one such example.

The day-long celebration was highlighted by a flag raising ceremony and continued at the National Stadium where a performance by the military brass band and the AU choir as well as student art created for the occasion were displayed. The day of celebration was concluded at the National Theatre, with a symphony performance by student from the Yared School of Music.