Ethiopian Airlines has joined the African Union in the Make Peace Happen campaign.
Ethiopian Airlines has decided to partner with the African Union to make peace happen by pledging to support some of the communication and travel needs of the 2010 Year of Peace and Security program. Additionally, Ethiopian Airlines will distribute the Flame of Peace, the unifying symbol for all nations committed to bringing about peace on the African continent, to various African destinations.
By making this commitment, Ethiopian Airlines joins a growing number of private sector, international and civil society partners who are beginning to respond to the call by the AU Commission to work with it to achieve the objectives of a conflict-free Africa.
The CEO Mr. Girma Wake, speaking on the partnership, said, “Throughout its 65 years of existence Ethiopian Airlines has endeavored to bring Africa together and to link it to the rest of the world, thereby contributing to its socio-economic integration and development. We have faith in Africa’s capacity to grow and become an economic powerhouse. Achieving peace and stability on the continent will go a long way in unlocking Africa’s enormous potential, and enabling its people to benefit from its abundant resources. This is why we are joining this timely initiative by the African Union.”
Peace and Security Commissioner, Ambassador Ramtane Lamamra, speaking on behalf of the African Union Commission, thanked Ethiopian Airlines, and called on other stakeholders in all sectors to emulate the airline’s example.
He added, “To achieve peace between nations and non-violence in our homes, communities and schools requires everyone’s involvement. While governments and international organizations have a key role to play, businesses can also make a meaningful contribution to the quest for peace in Africa. The AU encourages them to join hands with it and its Member States to make peace happen in 2010 and beyond, for a peaceful and stable Africa will contribute to the creation of a conducive environment for investment and economic activity.”
The AU Commission is reaching out to businesses, to support the Year of Peace and Security through various means, including by urging them to sign the Make Peace Happen Industry Charter, as a demonstration of their commitment to contributing to efforts to end conflicts and sustain peace in Africa.
As Africa’s green airline, it is great to see that Ethiopian is not only recognizing the need for sustainability, but also social economic and sustainable responsibility.
To find out more about Ethiopians eco efforts, have a look at Green Ethiopian Flying.
Source: Ethiopian Airlines
Editorial Director
