Events celebrating the life of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah reach their climax today, Tuesday, as Africans from across the continent mark African Union (AU) Day. The two events coincided when the AU endorsed celebrations by the government and the people of Ghana to honour the country's Founder and First President. Across the continent, Dr Nkrumah is revered as the foremost personality in the struggle to liberate and unite the continent from colonial rule. For the opportunity it provides, the occasion will be used by African leaders who have converged on Accra for the celebration to re-dedicate themselves to the work of uniting Africa for peace and the economic development of the continent. They believe that peace is a prerequisite to the continent's development efforts and have pledged to focus their attention on achieving that objective. The Deputy Chairman of the AU Commission, Mr Erastus Mwencha, articulated the continent's view when he proposed the toast at a State Banquet in commemoration of the life and times of Osagyefo Dr Nkrumah in Accra on Sunday. The colourful event attracted an array of personalities; including President John Evans Atta Mills and his wife, Ernestina Naadu Mills, President Abdoulaye Wade of Senegal, a former President of Zambia, Dr Kenneth David Kaunda; Vice-President John Dramani Mahama; the Chairman of the Council of State, Prof. Kofi Awoonor; members of the Diplomatic Corps, traditional leaders, youth groups and a cross-section of Ghanaians. Mr Mwencha commended Ghana for its role in peacekeeping operations across the globe spanning over five decades, stressing that was an indication that "the people of Ghana appreciate the value of peace and stability". He said by those values, Ghana had discovered its potential as a result of peace and become a beacon of hope not only for the continent but also the world at large. "This is the legacy that Osagyefo Dr. Nkrumah has bequeathed to Ghana and Africa,” he stressed, and called on all Africans to join in the celebration of this year's Peace Day, which falls on September. On conflicts in some parts of Africa, Mr Mwencha said peace was the responsibility of all communities and nations and stressed the need for the opening of a new chapter that would allow peace to prevail. Responding to the toast, President Mills expressed gratitude to all those who had helped to make the memorable occasion a success. "On behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, I welcome you all who have come from beyond our shores and borders to join us celebrate the life and work of an illustrious son of Ghana and Africa,” he said. He lauded the planning committee for rolling out the year-long programme and doing the nation proud with their hard work. Source: Daily Graphic/Ghana