The Ghana National Council of Metropolitan Chicago, (GNC), and its affiliates and the Ghanaian Community in Chicago, express their sorrow and condolences on the death of the former Secretary General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Laureate, Kofi Annan.

The Ghanaian diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations, from January 1997 to December 2006, died in Bern, Switzerland, on Saturday, August 18, after a short illness. He was 80 years.

A statement signed and issued by the President of GNC, Chicago, Paa Kwasi Sam said: “His loss is a tremendous blow not only to Ghana but to Africa and the world at large.”

The statement continued: “Kofi was a stalwart African diplomat, a humanitarian and a strong advocate and keeper of international peace and security. His achievements stand tall especially as the first black African to become U.N. Secretary-General galvanized all blacks and minorities around the world to yearn for more.Wherever there was a need, Kofi reached out and touched many with his deep compassion and empathy. Though he was soft spoken, his voice pieced through tough hearts! Against all odds, Kofi won the release of hostages held by the then resolute leader of Iraq, the late Saddam Hussein.” The statement said.

In conclusion Paa Kwasi said “We extend our deepest condolences to the family as well as to the colleagues and friends at the Kofi Annan Foundation, and Ghanaians in general.”