Amara Essie Secretary General of the Organization of African Unity. Country: Ivory Coast

1. Amara Essy: Life and Diplomacy
2. Leadership and the UN
3. Secretary-General of the OAU
4. Personal Life and Interests

Amara Essy: Life and Diplomacy

Amara Essy, born in Bouaké, Ivory Coast, embarked on a distinguished career as a lawyer and diplomat. With over three decades of diplomatic experience, he held key positions in Côte d'Ivoire's embassies in Brazil, New York, and the UN headquarters in Geneva.

Leadership and the UN

Essy's diplomatic acumen culminated in his election as President of the UN General Assembly in 1994. As a special envoy for President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, he played a pivotal role in negotiations with South Africa on Namibia's status and the eradication of apartheid. Essy also brokered talks between Yasser Arafat and Israeli leaders to resolve the Middle East conflict.

Secretary-General of the OAU

In 1994, Amara Essy became Secretary-General of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), succeeding Salim Ahmed Salim of Tanzania. Essy brought his wealth of diplomatic experience to the OAU, focusing on conflict resolution and promoting African unity.

Personal Life and Interests

Essy is a devout Muslim who has made the pilgrimage to Mecca seven times. Despite his religious beliefs, he married a Christian Ivorian woman in 1969, and they have six children. In his personal life, Essy enjoys Latin American music, particularly salsa. His striking resemblance to the legendary footballer Pelé once caused all Brazilians present at a public event to rise in admiration.