Tunde Folawiyo | The United Nations and the Impact of Kofi Annan

Throughout its history, the United Nations has seen various leaders of outstanding character come together to forge positive impact upon the world. Kofi Annan is one such figure whose contributions are forever cemented in African history. From his role in the United Nations to his winning of the Nobel Peace Prize, Annan continues to inspire new generations of African leaders. Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others throughout the world may recognise his various accomplishments.

Kofi Annan comes from a family of traditional chiefs from Ghana’s Fante tribe. He was born on 8 April 1938 in Kumasi’s Kofandros section, and as he grew up he became a student leader throughout his school years. He attended Cape Coast’s Mfantisipim School – a Methodist boarding school – from 1954 to 1957. It was here that he was taught the basic principle that “suffering anywhere concerns people everywhere”.

Upon Annan’s graduation in 1957, the Gold Coast became independent from Britain, becoming known instead as Ghana. Annan was granted a scholarship to begin study in the United States before departing for study in Geneva. Later, he returned to the US to study management at the famous MIT.

In 1958 Annan enrolled at Kumasi College of Science and Technology. He later became a recipient of the Ford Foundation grant, which enabled him to complete his undergraduate studies at St Paul, Minnesota’s Macalester College in 1961. He then completed an International Relations degree from Geneva’s Graduate Institute of International Studies in 1962, before eventually earning a Master of Science degree.

After finishing his formal education, Annan began his rise through the ranks of the United Nations, eventually becoming Secretary General, the top job. He held the role from 1997 to 2007 – a duration of two terms. During this time, Annan garnered the respect of citizens from all over the globe. He is recognised for his ability to maintain honesty and integrity when facing adversity. His stoicism and diplomacy have long served him well as a peacekeeper for the United Nations and other organisations such as the World Health Organisation.

In recognition of his outstanding work towards peace, Annan was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001. For this and countless other achievements, he remains one of Africa’s most respected figures. Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others throughout the world will continue to be inspired by the impact he has forged upon world peace.