Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan has died at age 80, as his death was confirmed by his family and his Foundation on his social media page.
The Ghanian Diplomat who was the 7th Secretary General of the United Nations was said to have died after a brief illness in the presence of his wife and family members.
In a statement released by the family and his Foundation, The Kofi Annan Foundation, after announcing his death this morning, pleaded with the public to allow them their privacy as they mourn. The Statement by the family and Foundation eulogizing the late Diplomat reads:
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001, he was the first black African to head the United Nations, and led the organization for two successive five-year terms beginning in 1997 — a decade of turmoil that challenged the sprawling body and redefined its place in a changing world
“It is with immense sadness that the Annan family and the Kofi Annan Foundation announced that Koffi Annan, former Secretary General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Laureate, passed away peacefully on Saturday 18th August after a short illness. His wife Nane and their Children Ama, Kojo and Nina were by his side during his last days.”
His wife Nane and their children Ama, Kojo and Nina were by his side during his last days.
Kofi Annan was a global Stateman and a deeply committed internationalist who fought throughout his life for a fairer and more peaceful world. During his distinguished career and leadership of the United Nations, he was an ardent Champion of peace sustainable development, human rights and the rule of law.
After stepping down from the United Nations, he continued to work tirelessly in the cause of peace through his chairmanship of the Kofi Annan Foundation and as chair of The Elders, the group founded by Nelson Mandela. he was an inspiration to young and old alike.
Kofi Annan was a son of Ghana and felt a special responsibility towards Africa. He was particularly committed to African development and deeply engaged in many initiatives, including his chairmanship of the Africa Progress Panel and his early leadership of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).
Wherever there was suffering or need, he reached out and touched many people with his deep compassion and empathy. He selflessly placed others first, radiating genuine kindness, warmth, and brilliance in all he did.
He will be greatly missed by so many around the world, as well as his staff at the foundation and his many former colleagues in the United Nations system. he will remain in our hearts forever.
The family kindly request privacy at this time of mourning. Arrangements to celebrate his remarkable life will be announced later.” The statement concludes.