The J.J. Rawlings Foundation has commended the late President Jerry John Rawlings for establishing the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre for Pan-African Culture in 1985, describing it as a “visionary move” that solidified Ghana’s commitment to Pan-African ideals. The Centre marked its 40th anniversary in Accra on Sunday, with dignitaries including former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings and W.E.B. Du Bois’ grandson, Jeffrey Peck, in attendance.
Yaa Asantewaa Agyeman-Rawlings, Executive Director of the J.J. Rawlings Foundation, stated that the Centre has become a sanctuary for Pan-African scholarship and inspiration, reflecting Rawlings’ vision of a space where individuals could explore questions of African identity and freedom. The event also honored key figures instrumental in the Centre’s creation and pledged to uphold its role as a hub for Pan-African education and cultural exchange.
The ceremony included a ceremonial cake cutting to commemorate what would have been President Rawlings’ 78th birthday and recalled his decision to relocate Du Bois’ remains to the Centre’s site in 1985. The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring Du Bois’ legacy continues to inspire global movements for unity and freedom.
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