The African Union Mission in South Sudan (AUMISS) marked Africa Day on Friday, May 23, 2025, with a heartwarming visit to Juba Orphanage, celebrating the continent’s heritage with children who represent Africa’s future.
Led by Prof. Joram Biswaro, Head of Mission of the African Union in South Sudan, AU Ambassadors donated a range of essential supplies including food items, medicines, sports equipment, clothing, and mosquito nets.
The visit was organized under the theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”
Africa Day, officially commemorated on May 25 each year, honors the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, now known as the African Union (AU).
This day celebrates Africa’s unity, heritage, and aspirations, and is a symbol of the continent’s journey toward freedom, justice, and development.
“This year, instead of hosting a formal event, we chose to celebrate with our future leaders, the children at Juba Orphanage,” said Ambassador Yohannes Teclemichael of Eritrea, who also serves as Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in South Sudan.
He added, “We brought what we could to support them and share the joy of Africa Day together.”
The donation and visit were warmly welcomed by the orphanage’s leadership and South Sudanese government officials.
Zendia Eluzai, Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare in Central Equatoria State, praised the initiative, noting its importance in supporting vulnerable children.
“We are grateful for the solidarity shown by African Ambassadors. The orphanage hosts children from across South Sudan, and such support goes a long way in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow,” she said.
Prof. Biswaro echoed the sentiment, stating that the AU Ambassadors in South Sudan came together to support the orphanage as a symbolic gesture of unity and commitment to Africa’s next generation.
“The African struggle for freedom was not easy, and we must continue to resist any form of neo-colonialism. Unity and development should be our guiding principles,” he added.
Angello Kenyi, Director of Juba Orphanage, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the donation and the AU’s decision to celebrate Africa Day with the children.
“These items will make a significant difference in the lives of the children. I thank the AU and the Ambassadors for their continued support,” he said, calling on local leaders and communities to contribute to the welfare of orphans.
The event concluded with group photos and joyous moments shared between the dignitaries and the children, reflecting the spirit of pan-Africanism and solidarity that Africa Day represents.
