In memoriam: Kofi Atta Annan (1938 – 2018)

It is with great sadness that the Center for African Studies mourns the loss of Kofi Atta Annan. Annan’s career at the United Nations and as UN Secretary General brought him global attention, but he will also be remembered for his dedication and commitment to advancing Africa’s development and democratization. His achievements as Secretary General (1997 – 2006) include receiving the Nobel Peace Prize jointly with the UN in 2001 and launching the Millennium Development Goals in 2000.

After stepping down as Secretary General, Annan continued to serve Africa – and the world – in distinct ways. In Ghana, Annan was honored by the King of the Ashanti Kingdom with the title of Busumuru (wise advisor). The designation is a title usually reserved for kings and stands as a testament to Annan’s diplomatic skills.

He was also one of The Elders, a council founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007 of distinguished public leaders who work to further peace and human rights around the world. Annan was one of the members from its inception, becoming its chair in May 2013, replacing Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Annan was a dedicated and selfless leader who humbly took responsibility for his own mistakes in order to push forward a future that was stable and peaceful. His optimism for Africa meant that he held Africa to higher ideals and pushed to further Africa’s development and governance goals. It is an honor to have had Annan work by Africa’s side until the end of his life. He inspires us to continue to work in partnership with others to contribute to the better future that Annan believed in.

- Harvard Center for African Studies