The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has announced the completion of a significant renovation of the historic ‘Africa Hall’ in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This iconic building, where the former Organization of African Unity (OAU) was founded in 1963, will be officially inaugurated in October, following an extensive restoration process.
Africa Hall holds deep symbolic and historical importance for the continent. It was here that the leaders of 32 newly independent African nations gathered to lay the foundations for the OAU, which later evolved into the African Union (AU). This meeting marked a pivotal moment in African unity, diplomacy, and the post-colonial quest for independence. Ethiopia, whose victory at the Battle of Adwa in 1896 had already established it as a beacon of anti-colonial resistance and Pan-Africanism, was chosen as the headquarters for the OAU, further solidifying Addis Ababa's role as a diplomatic hub for Africa.
The hall was originally commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie as a venue for the first-ever OAU summit, making it not only a heritage site but a symbol of African resilience, unity, and leadership. It has since witnessed decades of historic events and decisions that have shaped the continent’s modern political landscape.
The $57 million renovation project, funded by the United Nations General Assembly, aims to preserve the building’s historic and traditional architectural features while transforming it into a state-of-the-art conference facility. Antonio Bayo, the Africa Hall Project Manager, noted that the refurbishment would modernize the building while maintaining its cultural and historical significance. Bayo highlighted that the hall will feature world-class amenities, making it comparable to leading international venues in New York and Geneva.
In addition to conference facilities, the revamped Africa Hall will house a permanent exhibition showcasing modern African history and culture. This exhibition is expected to attract both tourists and scholars, adding value to Ethiopia’s growing cultural tourism industry. The hall will also serve as a venue for special events organized by AU member states, further enhancing its role as a center of African diplomacy and heritage.
The renovation comes at a time when the African Union is playing an increasingly influential role in global affairs, and the completion of Africa Hall’s restoration is a fitting tribute to the continent’s progress and ongoing efforts toward unity. As the inauguration approaches, the refurbished hall is set to become both a functional space for contemporary African diplomacy and a landmark tourist destination, capturing the essence of Africa’s rich past and dynamic future.
With the historic reopening just weeks away, Africa Hall stands as a testament to the vision of the continent’s early leaders and their enduring legacy of unity and cooperation.