Introduction

Originally published in 1976, this book provides an account of the aims and structure of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and its growth from its foundation in Addis Ababa in 1963 up to the mid-1970s. The book discusses the Charter, the working of the general secretariat and of the specialized commissions, the OAU response to crises in Africa and the role of the Liberation Committee in the radical changes which took place in southern African politics. It depicts then (then) only continent-wide organization in Africa which is financed and staffed by Africans, and which can be taken as the representative voice of Africa free of its ties with former colonial powers.