Marcus Garvey’s son, Dr Julius Garvey was among the guests who attended a historic ceremony where the former Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Demeke Mekonnen was elected as the inaugural President of the Global Black Center.
The center, focused on history, heritage, and education, recently set up its headquarters in Addis Ababa with support from the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Held at Addis Ababa University, the ceremony marked a crucial milestone in the Global Black Center’s journey, aiming to establish global governance. Mekonnen delivered welcoming remarks, emphasizing the event’s historical significance and expressing gratitude for being appointed as the inaugural chairperson.
Marcus Garvey was a Jamaican political leader, publisher, journalist, and orator who became a prominent figure in the early 20th-century Pan-African Movement. He is best known for his role as a leader in the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA), which he founded in 1914. Garvey advocated for the unity and empowerment of people of African descent worldwide.
Distinguished guests, including Professor Earl Taylor, were present at the ceremony. Tesfaye Mecha, representing the founding members of GBC, provided insights into the center’s establishment, acknowledging the support from Mekonnen.
The event included a presentation detailing the overall establishment and operation of The Global Black Center, headquartered in Addis Ababa.